Community Engagement, Leadership Support, and a Strong Commitment to Women’s Health
Carles, Iloilo marked an important milestone in women’s health as it officially launched the Global Cervical Cancer Elimination Program under the SUCCESS FAP Project, a major initiative supported by Expertise France and Unitaid. This launch forms part of Phase 3 of the program, which focuses on bringing HPV-DNA self-collection screening to unserved and underserved GIDA communities, including Carles, Estancia, and Lemery. More than 17,000 women aged 30 to 49 across these municipalities are expected to benefit from free HPV self-testing kits, with follow-up care and treatment available at the Western Visayas Medical Center and DOH hospitals.
A Ceremonial Kickoff Rooted in Community Unity
On November 17, 2025, during the weekly flag-raising ceremony at Timbook Park, Carles came together for the Ceremonial Kickoff of the new cervical cancer elimination activities. Present at the event 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—clear proof of the strong local leadership behind this initiative.
Their presence signaled Carles’ full commitment to preventive health, especially through HPV DNA self-testing, a proven, convenient, and effective method to detect early signs of cervical cancer. With Phase 3 extending services to hard-to-reach areas, Carles stands at the forefront of making women-centered, accessible health services a local priority.
Bringing Awareness to Every Corner of the Community
During the same weekly ceremony, LGU employees, uniformed personnel, and community leaders gathered not only to recognize outstanding CDSA athletes but also to amplify a crucial health message:
The free Cancer Warriors Global Cervical Cancer Awareness Activity is now open for all women aged 30–49.
The Cancer Warriors Foundation, Inc., the lead implementer in Carles, highlighted that cervical cancer screening kits are completely free, encouraging women to participate and prioritize their health. The message was clear: this life-saving program belongs to everyone, and the community is encouraged to take advantage of it.
Carles Leads the Way
“Basta Carles, the BEST” echoed throughout the gathering—a fitting slogan for a municipality taking bold strides to protect women and families from one of the most preventable forms of cancer. With strong local government support and an empowered network of health workers and partners, Carles demonstrates what it means to champion equitable, community-driven healthcare.
As Phase 3 progresses, Carles’ dedication sets a powerful example of how local action fuels global health impact—one woman, one family, and one community at a time.