The Philippine Infectious Diseases Society for Obstetrics and Gynecology (PIDSOG) has called on the Department of Health (DOH) to integrate the 9-valent human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine into the Philippine National Immunization Program. The recommendation follows an analysis of local epidemiological data on HPV-related cancers, particularly cervical cancer, which remains a significant health challenge in the country.
HPV, a sexually transmitted infection, poses a major public health risk, leading to several cancers, including cervical cancer. In the Philippines, cervical cancer ranks as the second most common cancer among women aged 15 to 44, with at least 12 women dying from it daily. To address this, the Philippines introduced the quadrivalent HPV vaccine in 2017, providing free vaccinations to girls aged 9 to 14 through a school-based program. However, PIDSOG argues that the 9-valent HPV vaccine, which protects against nine HPV types, offers broader and more effective protection against HPV-related cancers.
“The nonavalent HPV vaccine provides broader coverage than the bivalent and quadrivalent vaccines, protecting against nine HPV types,” PIDSOG stated in its position paper. The organization also noted the vaccine’s proven effectiveness in preventing high-grade cervical, vulvar, and vaginal intraepithelial neoplasia, which are precursors to cancer.
Approved by the Philippine Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in 2017, the 9-valent HPV vaccine is widely available in private medical practice and is pre-qualified by the World Health Organization (WHO), ensuring its safety and efficacy. Research from countries like Japan demonstrates that the vaccine can achieve earlier and more substantial reductions in cervical cancer incidence than previous versions. Recently, Thailand also updated its national immunization program to include the 9-valent vaccine.
PIDSOG recommends administering the vaccine to individuals aged 9 to 14, with catch-up vaccinations for those aged 15 to 26 whenever possible. The organization emphasized that a two-dose regimen elicits a strong immune response in adolescents aged 9 to 14, while a three-dose regimen is preferred for individuals aged 15 and older or those with immunocompromising conditions to ensure sustained antibody levels.
Expanding access to the 9-valent vaccine in the Philippines could significantly prevent cervical cancers and other HPV-related diseases. The vaccine’s widespread use may also confer indirect protection to unvaccinated individuals through herd immunity. According to PIDSOG, the vaccine has the potential to “significantly reduce the incidence of HPV-related cancers and diseases,” making it a vital component of the country’s public health strategy.
PIDSOG strongly supports integrating the 9-valent HPV vaccine into the national immunization program, considering it a critical step toward reducing HPV-related cancers and advancing equitable access to healthcare for Filipinos.
