Makati Medical Center (MakatiMed) joined the Philippine College of Surgeons (PCS) and participating hospitals nationwide in a simultaneous Pink Lighting Ceremony in observance of Breast Cancer Awareness Month, highlighting the importance of early detection, timely treatment, and compassionate care for patients.
Held at the Tower 1 Lobby, the event gathered hospital leaders, healthcare professionals, and guests to promote breast cancer awareness and show solidarity with patients and families affected by the disease.
Saturnino P. Javier, MD, MakatiMed Interim Co-President and CEO and Medical Director, delivered the opening remarks, emphasizing the significance of the initiative beyond its symbolic display.
“As we light our hospital in pink, we are doing more than creating a beautiful symbol. We are shining a light on the importance of early detection, timely treatment, compassionate care, and home for every woman and every family affected by Breast Cancer,” he said.
Remi Karis M. Velasco, MD, MakatiMed breast surgeon, also discussed the importance of Breast Cancer Awareness Month and the Pink Lighting initiative, highlighting the personal stories behind every diagnosis.
“This disease continues to affect countless women and families. And behind every diagnosis is a person – a mother, a daughter, a sister, a wife, a friend, or even a colleague. Behind every person is a story of courage, hope, uncertainty, strength and love. This is why awareness matters,” Velasco said.
Sharing Stories Of Hope And Strength
The program featured a symposium titled “Voices of Hope: Stories, Strength, and Support in the Fight Against Breast Cancer.” Speakers Michelle Dayrit-Soliven, Maria Lourdes G. Gozali, MD, Victor K. Gozali, MD, and Kara Magsanoc-Alikpala shared experiences and perspectives related to the breast cancer journey, underscoring the importance of empathy, understanding, and a strong support system for patients and their loved ones.
The event culminated in the Pink Lighting Ceremony, conducted in coordination with PCS and participating hospitals across the country. The symbolic lighting served as a collective call to action to encourage screening, promote early detection, and stand alongside those affected by breast cancer.
Supporting Patients At Every Stage
MakatiMed provides breast care services through its Breast Imaging Center, which offers imaging services that support early detection and diagnosis, and its Cancer Institute, which assists patients requiring cancer treatment. Its Surgical Services also provide surgical care as part of breast cancer management.
Through its participation in the nationwide initiative, MakatiMed reaffirms its commitment to advancing breast cancer awareness and helping patients access appropriate care throughout their journey.
For more information, contact MakatiMed On-Call at +632.88888 999, email [email protected], or visit www.makatimed.net.ph. Follow @IamMakatiMed on Facebook and Twitter.
