On September 14, 2024, the Rotary Club of Cagayan de Oro East Urban executed a significant community service initiative titled “Free Breast and Cervical Cancer Screening: Visual Inspection with Acetic Acid (VIA) and Papsmear.” This impactful project, held at JR Borja General Hospital, aimed to provide essential health services to women from various barangays in Cagayan de Oro City.
In partnership with Misamis Oriental Physicians Nurses Foundation Inc. and JR Borja General Hospital, the event successfully catered to 60 women, offering them crucial breast and cervical cancer screenings. The project is part of Rotary’s Area of Focus: Maternal and Child Health, highlighting our commitment to enhancing women’s health and well-being.
Dr. Judith Faye Metillo-Montero, a dedicated advocate for women’s health, served as the keynote speaker. Her presentation focused on the importance of cervical cancer screenings and health awareness. The event was further supported by POGS X, the Capitol University Nursing Program led by Ma’am Christine Uy Balancar, Ma’am Arlene Lamostre Rudinas-Macabecha from the City Health Office, and the diligent staff at JRBGH’s OPD Consultation Area.
Special recognition goes to:
- Director: Daisy Chiu, whose exceptional leadership was pivotal in organizing the event.
- Chairperson: Vicky Abogado, and Sub-Chair: Bebotte Chu, for their steadfast commitment.
- Nursing Professionals: Sec. Nenette Rebolos and Past President Bebotte Chu, who utilized their nursing expertise to assist in screening the women, significantly contributing to the project’s success.
- Committee Members: Nette Lilie, Angela Lim, Grace Go, Arlyn Niere, Boleen Faburada, Chaissa Dulgime, Ophs de la Cerna, Evita Arvisu, Emilyn Go, Marichu Palomares, Su Macapayag, and Wen Flores, whose hard work and dedication made a substantial impact.
The event’s outcomes were noteworthy, with 65 patients screened, including 10 pap smears. Beneficiaries included women from Barangays 1, 14, 6, 11, 19, 17, 13, 15, and 18.
This project addressed a crucial aspect of health care by focusing on women who often place their own health on the backburner due to their roles as natural caregivers. The screenings and educational lecture provided a valuable opportunity for these women to understand and prioritize their health needs, which is essential for their overall well-being.
We extend our deepest gratitude to all individuals and organizations involved. President Christina Jugador’s unwavering support and guidance played a vital role in the successful execution of this initiative. The Rotary Club of Cagayan de Oro East Urban remains committed to continuing such impactful efforts to improve community health and serve those in need.
Together, we are making a profound difference in advocating for women’s health and providing vital self-care opportunities. May our continued dedication inspire further action and support in our community.
