The Tingog Party-list and AstraZeneca Philippines on Wednesday formally signed a memorandum of understanding symbolizing their shared commitment for early detection of lung cancer and give patients the fighting chance they deserve against the devastating disease.

The MOU was signed at the House of Representatives in Quezon City by Tingog Party-list Reps. Yedda Romualdez and Jude Acidre, AstraZeneca Philippines Country President Lotis Ramin, AstraZeneca Philippines Medical Director Cyril Tolosa, Cancer Coalition Philippines (CCPh) Senior VP Menchie Auste, Swedish Ambassador Annika Thunborg and British Embassy Health Advisor Liz Bautista.

Under the agreement, Tingog Party-list will work closely with AstraZeneca Philippines and CCPh to provide free biopsy tests to patients as part of the screening process to detect lung cancer early and improve survival rates.

As part of the agreement, Tingog pledged to allocate PHP3 million from its medical assistance fund to cover biopsy tests for 200 patients screened through the Lung Ambition Alliance.

“This MOU represents the power of partnership and collective action. Government, civil society, the healthcare industry, and the international community coming together with one goal – to beat lung cancer,” Romualdez said.

Lung cancer remains the leading cause of cancer deaths in the Philippines, with many patients being diagnosed at late stages when treatment options are limited. Early detection and screening are the only means to improve survival rates.

Acidre noted that AstraZeneca’s cutting-edge research, commitment to medical excellence, and the global group will complement Tingog’s aspiration of bringing government services closer to the people.

“By working together, we can provide comprehensive support to lung cancer patients, from diagnosis to treatment, and ultimately enhance their chances of a healthier future,” he said.

For her part, Ramin said AstraZeneca is looking forward not just to improving outcomes, but to revolutionizing innovation and holistic patient care for more Filipinos.

“With like-minded, patient-centric partners such as Tingog and everyone here with us, we can deliver meaningful improvements,” she said in her speech.

Romualdez, meanwhile, thanked the partners for their leadership and support in the fight against lung cancer.

“We have a difficult road ahead, but today we take an important step forward. Let us continue working to ensure Filipinos have the chance to live healthy, cancer-free lives,” she said. (PNA)