The collaboration will adapt evidence-based cancer treatment guidelines for the Philippines, covering 10 cancer types and aiming to improve access to consistent, high-quality care.
The National Comprehensive Cancer Network (NCCN) is partnering with leading medical organizations in the Philippines and international cancer experts to develop locally adapted cancer care guidelines for Filipino patients.
The initiative was highlighted during international cancer meetings in Montreal, Canada, from October 1 to 3, and Manila, Philippines, from October 6 to 9. The project aims to make evidence-based cancer treatment recommendations more relevant to local healthcare needs, medical practices and regulations.
Guidelines to Cover 10 Cancer Types
NCCN is collaborating with the Philippine Society of Medical Oncology (PSMO), the Society of Gynecological Oncologists of the Philippines (SGOP) and the International Gynecologic Cancer Society (IGCS) to adapt guidelines covering 10 cancer types.
Working with PSMO, the initiative will address B-cell lymphomas, breast cancer, colon cancer, liver cancer, lung cancer, prostate cancer and rectal cancer. The collaboration with SGOP and IGCS will focus on cervical, ovarian and uterine cancers.The adapted guidelines will be available free of charge through NCCN’s global website in the coming months.
Experts Highlight Importance of Local Needs
Crystal S. Denlinger, MD, NCCN chief executive officer, said the partnership reflects a shared commitment to improving access to appropriate cancer care, reducing treatment disparities and strengthening oncology practices through evidence-based guidance.
She added that working with regional experts would help make international recommendations more practical for local clinical settings.
On October 6, PSMO, the Philippine Department of Health (DOH) and NCCN also held a high-level meeting to discuss integrating the adapted guidelines into national health policies and programmes under the National Integrated Cancer Control Act (NICCA).
Hiyasmin A. Alejandro, MD, PSMO vice president and co-lead of the adaptation project, said the collaboration would combine global clinical standards with local medical expertise and regulations.
Dr. Doris Benavides, former SGOP president, said adapting guidelines for gynecological cancers would help specialists provide recommendations suited to local practice and improve long-term outcomes for Filipino women.
Partnership May Expand Globally
NCCN has also signed a memorandum of understanding with IGCS to explore adapting gynecological cancer guidelines in other regions.
Mary Eiken, IGCS chief executive officer, said the partnership would help translate clinical guidelines into practice for patients worldwide.
NCCN currently has more than 90 international guideline adaptations and over 180 translations. The Philippine initiative aims to strengthen cancer care by helping healthcare professionals apply trusted recommendations within the country’s healthcare system.
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