Philippine National Cancer Summit 2025 calls for urgent action to strengthen cancer care in the country

With cancer claiming over 300 Filipino lives daily and more than 180,000 new cases reported annually, urgent and collective action is needed to strengthen the country’s cancer care system.

This was the central message of the Philippine National Cancer Summit 2025 (PNCS), held on February 27-28, 2025, at Novotel Manila, Araneta City.

Organized by the Philippine College of Surgeons Cancer Commission Foundation (PCS CANCOM), the summit brought together over 2,500 attendees—including government officials, medical experts, patient advocates, and industry leaders—to address critical gaps in prevention, treatment, and survivorship.

Government, health experts, and advocates unite for cancer care reform

Health Secretary Ted Herbosa (speech delivered by Dr. Manuel Francisco Roxas, National Integrated Cancer Control Council Member and PCS Cancer Commission Chair) underscored the government’s commitment to equitable healthcare: “As we move forward, let us be guided by a shared vision: a nation where every Filipino, regardless of their circumstances, has access to the care they deserve. Together, we can and we will build a resilient cancer care ecosystem.”

Quezon City Mayor Joy Belmonte opened the summit with a powerful call to action: “Let’s redefine the fight against cancer together!”

Recognizing the financial burden of cancer care, Senator Risa Hontiveros emphasized: “It is through gatherings like the Philippine National Cancer Summit that we can learn to treat not just cancers of people but cancers of society. Kabilang na dito ang presyo ng pagpapagamot.”

Meanwhile, DILG Assistant Secretary Lilian De Leon urged public-private collaboration, saying: “We need everyone's involvement in the quest against cancer. We urge our cancer care partners to be one with the government in actively providing cancer care and achieving health for all.”

Key action points to strengthen cancer care

The summit identified five urgent priorities to improve cancer care:

Expanding the Cancer Care Ecosystem – Strengthening regional cancer networks, integrating local hospitals and barangay health workers, and improving early detection efforts.

Ensuring Affordable and Equitable Access – Accelerating PhilHealth’s cancer coverage reforms to provide faster, fairer, and more responsive financial support.

Advancing Innovation and Research – Expanding the use of precision medicine, immunotherapy, AI-driven diagnostics, and telehealth solutions.

Implementing Data-Driven Standards – Establishing a National Cancer Registry to guide evidence-based policies and improve healthcare planning.

Building a Culture of Cancer Prevention – Strengthening public awareness campaigns on screening, vaccination, and early detection to reduce cancer incidence.

Dr. Manuel Francisco Roxas, Chairman of the PCS Cancer Commission Foundation, stressed the importance of a unified, multi-sectoral approach: “Building a resilient cancer care ecosystem requires a whole-of-society approach, where healthcare providers, government agencies, private sectors, and communities work together to ensure every patient receives the care they deserve.”

Urgent call for policy and systemic reforms

A highlight of the summit was a renewed push for full implementation of the National Integrated Cancer Control Act (NICCA), which aims to ensure sustainable funding, nationwide access to cancer treatment, and stronger patient support systems.

PhilHealth CEO & President Dr. Edwin Mercado emphasized the need for an efficient and patient-centric health financing system: “PhilHealth na mabilis, patas at mapagkakatiwalaan. PhilHealth that would be responsive to the needs of patients, members, and providers.”

Congressman Jude Acidre (Tingog Partylist) called on all sectors to turn discussions into action: “The story of survival is a reminder that what we do here matters. A resilient cancer care ecosystem is not just about better hospitals or funding. It is about making sure that no Filipino fights this battle alone.”

Moving forward: Turning commitments into action

The 2025 Philippine National Cancer Summit was more than a platform for dialogue—it was a unified call to action for all sectors to ensure accessible, high-quality cancer care for all Filipinos.

As cancer survivor Melissa De Leon-Joseph powerfully stated: “Cancer does not just test the body, it tests the mind, heart, and soul. Today I share my story not just as a survivor, but as a conqueror.”

The challenge ahead is immense, but with stronger collaboration, sustainable funding, and patient-centered innovation, the goal of a cancer-free Philippines is no longer just a vision—it is a commitment.