ISSUES

ISSUES OR
OR DIFFICULTIES
DIFFICULTIES EXPERIENCED
EXPERIENCED BY
BY
HIGAONONS
HIGAONONS
IN
IN REGION
REGION 10
10

PREPARED BY: MARK JEFFERSON LUNA

 Introduction
CAGAYAN DE ORO, Philippines – In remote villages
of Cagayan de Oro, the reliance of indigenous
people on traditional healing practices, despite
showing signs of serious illnesses like breast cancer,
is causing alarm.

Experts stress the significant health risks this choice

poses, especially in a country with high breast
cancer mortality rates.

Folk medicine is typically based on the cultural

beliefs and experiences of a specific group of
people and may not always be supported by
modern scientific evidence.

https://www.rappler.com/nation/mindanao/breast-cancer-concerns-rise-higaonons-shun-proper-treatment-cagayan-de-oro/
 Higaonon elder Bae Kalalagan, for instance, is
among the 12,000 Higaonons in the city who
cling to their traditional healing practices,
despite modern healthcare options provided by
the local and national government agencies.

The Philippines has one of the highest breast

cancer mortality rates globally. According to the
International Agency for Research on Cancer,
Filipino women face elevated risks of developing
breast cancer.

The Department of Health (DOH) reports that

three out of every 100 Filipino women will be
diagnosed with breast cancer in their lifetime,
with 27,163 cases recorded in the country in
2020. However, there is limited data or
narratives regarding lumad women suffering from
breast cancer.

https://www.rappler.com/nation/mindanao/breast-cancer-concerns-rise-higaonons-shun-proper-treatment-cagayan-de-oro/
 GOVERNMENT ACTION?
The Philippine Health Insurance Corporation (PhilHealth),
for one, provides aid for those diagnosed with early-stage
breast cancer, amounting to P100,000 in medical
assistance, covering surgery and chemotherapy.

Aid is also available for cancer patients at the Philippine

Charity Sweepstakes Office (PCSO)

In 2022 alone, the PCSO granted P13 million in medical

assistance to cancer-stricken patients in Northern
Mindanao, said Divina Salvacion, PCSO-Misamis Oriental
manager

The local government also provides aid through its village

health centers.

https://www.rappler.com/nation/mindanao/breast-cancer-concerns-rise-higaonons-shun-proper-treatment-cagayan-de-oro/
 POVERTY PROBLEM

“Buying medicines means expenses. Higaonon families

struggle to make a living through farming,” she said.

Undag (tribal leader) recounted an experience when a

relative fell ill with breast cancer, and their family
couldn’t afford the medication.

She said they initially consulted a physician who

recommended surgery and chemotherapy. However, due
to financial constraints, the family sought the help of a
baylan, who instructed them to look for herbs along a
river.

https://www.rappler.com/nation/mindanao/breast-cancer-concerns-rise-higaonons-shun-proper-treatment-cagayan-de-oro/
WHY IT IS IMPORTANT TO
ADDRESS THIS ISSUE PROPERLY?

BREAST CANCER: NOT

NECESSARILY A DEATH
SENTENCE, BUT A
COSTLY BATTLE
 Conclusion
To address this issue effectively, a comprehensive approach is necessary,
including initiatives to improve healthcare infrastructure, raise awareness
about the importance of early detection and modern medical treatments,
and bridge the gap between cultural traditions and evidence-based
healthcare practices. Education and collaboration between healthcare
professionals and indigenous communities can play a crucial role in finding
culturally sensitive solutions to improve health outcomes.
 Conclusion
In conclusion, addressing the reluctance of the Higaonon Indigenous People
to seek proper treatment for breast cancer requires a comprehensive,
culturally sensitive approach. By fostering collaboration between
healthcare providers, community leaders, and cultural advocates, it is
possible to create a supportive environment that respects indigenous
beliefs while promoting the health and well-being of individuals within
the community.
THANK
YOU!!!