As large-scale public service operations continue to ramp up in preparation for electoral activities, ensuring the health and well-being of personnel has never been more critical. The session was designed to equip COMELEC staff with practical knowledge about influenza, its risks, and the role vaccination plays in maintaining a safe and productive workforce.

We began the lecture by breaking down what influenza is, how it spreads, and why it remains a significant public health concern each year. Emphasis was placed on how quickly the virus can circulate in high-density work environments, making prevention a shared responsibility.

A key highlight of the discussion was the flu vaccine. Participants learned how vaccination reduces the risk of severe illness, minimizes absenteeism, and helps protect vulnerable individuals within the community. We also addressed common misconceptions about the flu vaccine, providing clear, evidence-based answers to frequently asked questions.

Beyond vaccination, the lecture reinforced simple yet effective preventive measures such as proper hand hygiene, respiratory etiquette, and staying home when experiencing symptoms. These small but consistent actions collectively make a big difference in reducing transmission.

The engagement from attendees was encouraging, with many raising thoughtful questions and expressing a strong interest in proactive health measures. This reflects a growing awareness of the importance of preventive care, especially in institutions that play a vital role in public service.

We are grateful for the opportunity to collaborate with COMELEC in promoting health awareness. Initiatives like this not only protect individuals but also strengthen the overall resilience of organizations and communities.

As the flu season approaches, we remain committed to supporting workplaces through education, vaccination advocacy, and accessible healthcare solutions. Together, we can create safer environments and healthier outcomes for everyone.

A total of 70 attendees joined the session, demonstrating a strong commitment to learning more about HPV, its risks, prevention, and the importance of proactive health decisions.

Strengthening Awareness on HPV

HPV remains one of the most common viral infections worldwide and is strongly associated with cervical cancer and other HPV-related diseases. Despite its prevalence, awareness and understanding are still crucial in empowering individuals to take preventive action.

The session aimed to:

• Provide clear and practical information about HPV
• Discuss its transmission and potential health risks
• Highlight the importance of prevention and early protection
• Encourage informed conversations about vaccination and regular screening

By creating a safe and informative environment, participants were able to ask questions and gain clarity on common misconceptions surrounding HPV.

Expert Insights from Dr. Bogs Rivera

We were honored to once again welcome Dr. Bogs Rivera of CerviQ as our guest lecturer.

Dr. Rivera delivered the lecture with clarity, compassion, and expertise, breaking down complex medical information into easily understandable insights. His engaging approach helped participants better grasp the realities of HPV and the practical steps they can take toward prevention.

His continued collaboration with us reflects a shared commitment to advancing HPV awareness and supporting public health education efforts across different sectors.

A Meaningful Partnership for Public Health

This initiative with the Commission on Elections, in partnership with MSD Philippines, underscores the value of workplace health education. By reaching employees directly within their organization, we are able to create ripple effects—empowering individuals not only for themselves but also for their families and communities.

We are grateful to all 70 attendees who actively participated in the discussion and to our partners for making this event possible.

Together, we continue to move forward in strengthening awareness, promoting prevention, and supporting healthier communities through education.

If you would like to organize a similar lay lecture for your organization, feel free to connect with us. Let’s continue the conversation on HPV awareness and prevention.

Over 600 staff members from different divisions of DOST ITDI took part in this program, joining a series of interactive learning sessions led by Dr. Bogs Rivera, Founder of CerviQ. He guided participants through essential topics, including human papillomavirus (HPV), cervical cancer prevention, early screening, and the role of vaccination in reducing long term risk.

HPV is one of the most common viral infections worldwide and a leading cause of cervical cancer. Yet many people are still unaware of how it spreads, how it can be detected early, and how vaccination can significantly lower the chances of developing cancer. Through this initiative, Pharma Quest Co. helped open meaningful conversations around these topics in a setting that encouraged openness, questions, and shared responsibility for health.

This program would not have been possible without the strong leadership of Dr. Janet Quizon and the dedicated coordination of Nurse Ma. Katherine Laureano. Their support ensured that the sessions reached employees across the institute and created momentum beyond awareness alone.

What makes this initiative especially encouraging is that it does not end with education. Discussions are now underway to explore how HPV vaccination can be supported through the GAD Program, with the hope of making preventive care more accessible to employees in the near future.

For Pharma Quest Co., this is what preventive healthcare looks like in action:

Knowledge that builds confidence
Confidence that leads to early action
Action that protects lives

By bringing cancer prevention into the workplace, we take a meaningful step toward a future where cervical cancer is no longer a threat. And we are proud to stand with our partners and the DOST ITDI community in making that future possible.