The empowered woman vs. the Big C

MANILA, Philippines - In celebration of women’s strength, health, and vitality, the Mu Sigma Phi Sorority of the UP College of Medicine is organizing a gala dinner and fashion presentation dubbed “Brilyante: The Empowered Woman.”

To be held on August 28, at the NBC Tent in Bonifacio Global City Taguig, the event is both a campaign for awareness on cervical cancer and other diseases caused by the human papillomavirus, or HPV, and a fund-raising activity for the benefit of the Cervical Cancer Prevention (CECAP) Network Program and the Service Committee of the Sorority.

The theme is also designed to highlight the sorority’s 75th or diamond anniversary as it continues to expand its shining influence on the health concerns of Filipino women. The fashion show is proof of its relentless drive to pursue its commitment towards solidarity, dedicated service, scholastic excellence, and leadership in the field of medicine and health.

Established in 1934, the Mu Sigma Phi Sorority is the oldest medical sorority in Asia. Its membership has grown to over a thousand lady doctors dedicated to the sorority’s ideals, which are ever responsive to the needs, abilities, and interests of young female physicians and physicians-in-the-making to serve the country.

“Part of our thrust for women empowerment is our advocacy for cervical cancer awareness. We have always dedicated ourselves to championing worthwhile causes — and one of the most pressing medical concerns right now is the issue of cervical cancer among women,” says UP-PGH ob-gyn infectious disease specialist Dr. Angela Rodriguez-Bandola, Mu Sigma Phi Sorority ’99 and co-chair of “Brilyante.”

Gynecologic oncologist Dr. Genara Manuel-Limson, Mu Sigma Phi Sorority ’59 and chair of “Brilyante,” revealed that cancer of the cervix is the second most common cancer among Filipino women.

Every year, an estimated 6,000 Filipino women are diagnosed with cervical cancer and more than half of them die of the disease. Five out of 10 Filipino women with cervical cancer will die within five years,” adds Dr. Limson.

“Brilyante — the Empowered Woman” aims to promote a positive outlook and a proactive stance for women faced with this disease. 

“Cancer patients and survivors need not be limited by their ailment. That’s why through this event, the issue of self-image of cancer patients is emphasized in an artistic and enjoyable manner. We hope to empower them to face life with renewed vigor, hope, and confidence,” says Dr. Bandola. 

“Brilyante” gathers some of the country’s popular and promising fashion designers, namely: Delby Bragais, Parrish Carlos, Tina Daniac, Rhett Eala, Jun Escario, JM Goulbourn, OJ Hofer, Michelle Lim, Richie Ortega-Torres, Randy Ortiz, and Philip Rodriguez.

Their creations will be grouped in four categories with respective sub-themes intended to dramatize the traits of strong women. The ruby collection, called “Fire of Desire,” will depict love, power, and courage in the face of tribulations. The sapphire set or “Ocean of Peace” will illustrate inner strength, joy, and peace. The emerald collection, entitled “Leaves of Hope,” will signify physical, emotional, and spiritual healing and balance while the last presentation, the diamond or “Gleam of Life” segment, will indicate energy, purity, abundance, and serenity.

In cooperation with the Professional Models Association of the Philippines (PMAP), the designs will be worn by professional models and prominent society members like Tweetie de Leon-Gonzalez, Tessa Prieto-Valdes, Angel Jacob and Trade Ambassador Mela Bengzon. Also sashaying down the runway are some sorority members who are doctors and cancer survivors. 

Present estimates indicate that about eight out of 10 women can get infected with HPV during their lifetime. Although most HPV infections clear on their own, some women who do not clear certain types of HPV can develop cervical cancer, genital warts, vulvar cancer, and vaginal cancer.

Says Bandola, “‘Brilyante’ is the perfect avenue to reach out and relay to more women and the public in general the cause that we are fighting for. It is good to work with institutions that show the same level of commitment and passion that we have in spreading information about a disease, which is now preventable, but continues to be among the leading causes of death among Filipino women.”