The Impact of the Philippine National Cancer Summit on the Implementation of the National Integrated Cancer Control Act (NICCA)

The Impact of the Philippine National Cancer Summit on the Implementation of the National Integrated Cancer Control Act (NICCA)

Rena S. Mallillin, Grace Zurielle C. Malolos , Sheena Joy F. Palcis
International Student Surgical Network – Philippines, Manila, Philippines

The Philippine National Cancer Summit (PNCS) is an annual event organized by the Philippine College of Surgeons Cancer Commission Foundation to support the implementation of the National Integrated Cancer Control Act (NICCA). The NICCA recognizes the need for urgent and coordinated action to improve the cancer care continuum in the Philippines. Held in 2025 with the theme “Stronger Philippines: Building a Resilient Cancer Care Ecosystem,” The PNCS focused on three key tracks: (1) Women’s Cancers, (2) Patient-Centered Care, and (3) Localization in the context of Universal Health Care and Health Equity. The summit emphasized the importance of multidisciplinary and multisectoral collaboration in advancing NICCA’s goals.
The PNCS 2025 became an avenue to promote discourse among stakeholders to integrate innovations in ensuring the utmost quality of care delivery. The conference invited government representatives, medical professionals, cancer patients, cancer survivors, patient advocates, and community or barangay health workers, who comprised the majority of the conference’s attendance.
The summit explored existing gaps in cancer care at the grassroots level and highlighted best practices to align shared objectives across sectors. Discussions were translated into actionable policy recommendations aimed at sustainability and nationwide implementation.
By centering inclusivity and collaboration, PNCS 2025 underscored the importance of involving those at the frontlines of care and adopting an interdisciplinary approach to ensure continuity and equity. The structure of the conference can be utilized as a model in implementing other health policies, ensuring that the Philippines moves towards a resilient, quality, and impactful patient-centered healthcare system.

Keywords: Health Policy, Multidisciplinary Collaboration, Cancer, Cancer Care, Philippines