Banna: The local government in Banna has expanded its human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccination program to include women up to 26 years old. This initiative marks a significant step in the town's efforts to combat cervical cancer by enhancing preventive measures through vaccination.

According to Philippines News Agency, Mayor Mary Chrislyn Abadilla, who is also a physician, lauded the expansion as a transformative milestone for the community. Banna has become the first town in the Philippines to meet the World Health Organization (WHO) and the Department of Health (DOH) gold standard by achieving a 90 percent HPV vaccination coverage among girls aged 9 to 14 years.

The primary cause of cervical cancer, HPV, has been targeted by the municipality's vaccination drive, which commenced in 2022 initially for girls aged 9 to 14. It was subsequently extended to include a catch-up program for girls aged 15 to 17 years. As of August 17, the expanded HPV vaccination has been implemented, utilizing vaccines procured through local funds.

Mayor Abadilla emphasized the broader implications of the vaccination program, stating that each vaccine administered serves as a shield against HPV and represents a promise of a healthier future for the community. Dr. Adolavni Magpily, a specialist from the Mariano Marcos Memorial Hospital and Medical Center, highlighted that cervical cancer is one of the most preventable cancers with early intervention.

In conjunction with the vaccination efforts, the Rural Health Unit of Banna conducted free cervical cancer screening using visual inspection with acetic acid, as well as breast cancer screening through clinical breast examinations for women aged 30 to 65 years.