Accord on boosting fight against cancer inked
A memorandum of agreement between Ayala Healthcare Holdings, Inc. (AC Health) with Varian Medical Systems Netherland B.V. and Varian Medical Systems Philippines,k Inc. has been signed which aimed at developing oncology clinic in the Philippines.
The signing is one of the important sidelines in the visit of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. in the United States.
One of Marcos’ delegates, Speaker Ferdinand Martin Romualdez, has expressed elation over the agreement as this is one step for the Filipinos to fight cancer.
Marcos is in San Francisco, United States of America, attending Asia Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) Summit.
The MOU calls for the development of oncology clinics in the Philippines and partnership on innovation and research to improve cancer diagnosis, treatment, and prevention.
“This collaboration between AC Health and Varian Medical Systems is a significant stride towards enhancing cancer care in our country,” Romualdez said.
“By combining the strengths of a respected healthcare provider and a global leader in medical technology, this partnership forged under the administration of President Marcos is poised to create a positive and lasting impact on the lives of many Filipinos affected by cancer,” he added.
Under the agreement, the Healthway Cancer Care Hospital of AC Health will serve as the hub of a network of oncology clinics strategically located throughout Metro Manila. This hub-and-spoke model will make it easier for patients to access comprehensive cancer care, regardless of their location.
The parties to the agreement will also collaborate on research and innovation to improve the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of cancer, which is among the leading causes of death in the Philippines.
In 2023, cancer is the third leading cause of death in the Philippines, with about 141,021 new cancer cases and 86,337 cancer deaths every year.
“The potential benefits this groundbreaking agreement brings to Filipino cancer patients are aligned with the priorities the House of Representatives, which include initiatives to help victims of this dreaded disease in our country,” Romualdez said.
He added the partnership between AC Health and Varian is in line with the objectives of Republic Act No. 11215, or the National Integrated Cancer Control Act, enacted in February 2019 as well as the initiatives of the House of Representatives against cancer.
