THE local government officially kicked off its Breast Cancer Awareness Month observance on October 5 at the Makabagong San Juan Theater, bringing together 236 breast cancer patients and survivors for a day of community, health, and empowerment.
Held in cooperation with the Caring Keri Foundation, the event bore the inspiring theme “Wellness and Wisdom: A Journey of Strength and Survivorship.”
The gathering served as the opening salvo for the city’s month-long initiatives, which are set to conclude with a culminating celebration at the end of October.
To ease the financial burdens associated with long-term care, Mayor Francis Zamora said that the city government distributed substantial monetary aid.
Patients currently undergoing active treatment received ₱10,000, while survivors under post-treatment monitoring were given ₱5,000.
In addition to cash assistance, attendees received essential health kits.
The program offered a robust array of free health and wellness services.
Beneficiaries availed themselves of flu and pneumonia vaccinations, chest X-rays, dental care, and nutrition counseling.
Partner organizations like Unilab and ECE Pharma provided additional medical support alongside Cancer Warrior registrations.
The holistic program also integrated physical and mental well-being sessions, featuring Zumba, yoga, and meditation classes.
A deeply emotional highlight of the launch was delivered by Mayor Francis Zamora.
Reflecting on a personal chapter, Zamora shared the hardships and treatments he and his wife, Keri Zamora, navigated following her breast cancer diagnosis in February 2019.
This personal experience inspired the founding of the Caring Keri Foundation later that year, which focuses on women’s health, youth well-being, and family-oriented advocacy.
Addressing the attendees, Mayor Zamora urged patients and survivors to stay strong, maintain hope, and strictly follow their medical professionals’ guidance.
He reaffirmed the local government’s unwavering commitment to supporting them through every step of their recovery.