Coun. Elizabeth Sio proposes free women's health check-ups amidst cancer battle

By Nimfa L. Estrellado Coun. Elizabeth U. Sio LUCENA CITY, Quezon - Amidst her own battle with breast cancer, Coun. Elizabeth U. Sio, in...

By Nimfa L. Estrellado

Coun. Elizabeth U. Sio

LUCENA CITY, Quezon - Amidst her own battle with breast cancer, Coun. Elizabeth U. Sio, in the recent Lucena City Council's 127th regular session, introduced a proposed ordinance mandating free annual women's health check-ups, aiming to combat the alarming rates of breast and cervical cancer in the Philippines. "Ito ay isang pangako ng ating pamahalaan sa bawat babae sa Lucena City—isang pangako na hindi na nila kailangang mamili sa pagitan ng pagkain sa hapag-kainan at pagpapatingin sa doktor," she stated during her privilege speech, emphasizing the critical need for accessible healthcare.

Sio's address became deeply personal as she, a lone female member, shared her personal journey through chemotherapy, "Ako po si Konsehala Beth Sio, at ako mismo ay kasalukuyang dumaranas ng isang pagsubok na hindi ko inakala—breast cancer. Sa ngayon, ako ay sumasailalim sa chemotherapy, at alam ko mula sa personal na karanasan ang takot, ang hirap, at ang bigat ng laban na ito. Pero higit sa lahat, alam ko rin ang halaga ng maagang pagsusuri, tamang impormasyon, at wastong pangangalaga sa kalusugan.".



Highlighting that cancer is the second leading cause of death in the Philippines, Sio's "Women's Health Caravan" ordinance aims to provide free annual screenings for women aged 21-65, particularly those economically disadvantaged. Mobile clinics will be deployed to barangays to ensure access.

Early detection significantly improves survival rates. The ordinance includes free annual health screenings and consultations, enhanced health awareness programs, mobile health caravans, and barangay-based screening days.

Presiding over the council session, Vice Mayor Roderick ‘Dondon’ Alcala acknowledged the significance of Sio’s proposal, and the critical need for accessible healthcare for the women of Lucena City. The Vice mayor also expressed his support for the proposed ordinance.

Each barangay will host at least one annual screening day. Sio also advocated for public-private partnerships to expand the program's reach.Sio emphasized the importance of early detection and prevention, stating, "I believe that no woman should lose the chance to live due to a lack of access to health services. Walang mas mahalaga sa buhay natin kundi ang ating kalusugan. Ang pagiging abala sa trabaho o sa pamilya ay hindi dapat maging dahilan upang ipagpaliban natin ang ating sarili."

Despite her ongoing cancer battle, Sio remains positive, using her social media to raise awareness and inspire others. Her dedication highlights her commitment to empowering women and advocating for accessible healthcare.