The Department of Health (DOH) has announced a nationwide rollout of free HPV vaccinations starting in the second quarter of 2025 to combat the spread of the Human Papillomavirus (HPV) and reduce cervical cancer cases.
Cervical cancer ranks as the third most common cancer among women in the Philippines, with 8,549 cases recorded in 2022, half of which resulted in fatalities, according to the International Agency for Research on Cancer. Studies show that 95% of cervical cancer cases are linked to HPV, a sexually transmitted infection spread through skin-to-skin contact or intercourse.
DOH recommends the vaccine for girls as young as nine years old to ensure protection before they become sexually active. Assistant Secretary Albert Domingo emphasized in a GMA News report the importance of early immunization for prevention, though it can still be administered later in life.
The vaccination program, supported by the Department of Education, aims to reach over one million Grade 4 students in public schools and expand to private schools. The vaccine is free and requires two doses, spaced six months apart.
DOH Secretary Teodoro Herbosa highlighted that the initiative, funded by President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., will eliminate the financial barrier to accessing the vaccine, which typically costs P8,000 for two doses. Over 500,000 students have already received their first dose under the school-based immunization program.
The DOH is also exploring HPV vaccination for men to prevent the transmission of the virus and reduce the risk of cervical cancer in women.
While mild side effects such as numbness, bruising, or fever may occur, the vaccine has not been linked to serious adverse reactions, Domingo assured.
