Community Engagement, Leadership Support, and a Strong Commitment to Women’s Health
Carles, Iloilo marked a significant milestone in women’s health with the official launch of Phase 3 of the Global Cervical Cancer Elimination Program under the SUCCESS-FAP Project. This phase focuses on expanding access to HPV-DNA self-collection screening in geographically isolated and disadvantaged areas (GIDA), including the municipalities of Carles, Estancia, and Lemery.
The initiative is made possible through the support of UNITAID and Expertise France as development partners. Implementation is led by the Cancer Warriors Foundation, Inc., in collaboration with the Department of Health (DOH) Disease Prevention and Control Bureau – Cancer Control Division, DOH Center for Health Development (CHD) Region IV, the Iloilo Provincial Health Office, and the Municipal Local Government Units of Carles, Estancia, and Lemery.
Technical advisory and mentoring support are provided by the Technical Advisor to Expertise France (SUCCESS-FAP) and the Western Visayas Medical Center (WVMC), ensuring high-quality screening, referral, and continuity of care.
Through Phase 3, more than 17,000 women aged 30 to 49 across the three municipalities are expected to benefit from free HPV self-testing kits, with clear pathways for follow-up care and treatment at WVMC and DOH-accredited hospitals.
A Ceremonial Kickoff Rooted in Community Unity
The ceremonial launch was held on November 17, 2025, during the municipality’s regular flag-raising ceremony at Timbook Park, symbolizing Carles’ collective commitment to women’s preventive health.
In attendance were Mayor Arnold Betita II, Vice Mayor Earl Patrick Betita, members of the Sangguniang Bayan, department heads, the Carles Primary Care Facility team, and barangay health workers—a strong show of leadership and local ownership of the program.
Their presence underscored the municipality’s support for HPV-DNA self-testing, a convenient, effective, and women-centered screening method proven to detect cervical cancer early. By extending services to hard-to-reach communities, Phase 3 places Carles at the forefront of delivering accessible and equitable health care for women.
Bringing Awareness to Every Corner of the Community
During the same gathering, municipal employees, uniformed personnel, and community leaders were also informed of an important public health message:
The Cancer Warriors Global Cervical Cancer Awareness Activity is now open to all women aged 30–49 in Carles.
The Cancer Warriors Foundation, Inc., the project’s lead implementing organization, emphasized that HPV-DNA screening kits are provided free of charge, encouraging women to take part and prioritize their health. The message was clear: this life-saving program is for the entire community, and every eligible woman is encouraged to participate.
Carles Leads the Way
“Basta Carles, the BEST” echoed throughout the event—a fitting reflection of a municipality taking decisive action against one of the most preventable forms of cancer. With strong political will, engaged health workers, and committed partners, Carles demonstrates how local leadership can translate global health goals into meaningful community impact.
As Phase 3 of the SUCCESS-FAP Project continues, Carles sets a powerful example of how collaboration, innovation, and community engagement can help protect women’s lives—one woman, one family, and one community at a time.