Ayala Group becomes first PH conglomerate to take ‘Working with Cancer’ pledge

The Ayala Group has become the first Philippine conglomerate to take the "Working with Cancer" pledge, a global initiative aimed at raising awareness and support for employees affected by cancer.

Announced during National Cancer Awareness Month, the initiative reinforces Ayala’s commitment to eliminating the stigma associated with cancer in the workplace, officials of the conglomerate said in a press briefing in Makati City.

The group has expanded its employee support programs to provide comprehensive assistance to those diagnosed with cancer or caring for loved ones battling the disease.

“Across industries where we operate, the Ayala Group has always prioritized our people, ensuring that our workplaces empower and support them—not just in moments of success, but also in times of personal difficulty,” said Francisco Romero Milán, chief human resources officer of Ayala Corp.

Expanded employee support programs

Ayala’s strengthened employee support initiatives include:

• Screening and preventive care: Enhanced screening services and preventive health programs.
• Medical benefits: Improved access to high-quality cancer care.
• Financial assistance: Additional financial aid packages to help employees focus on treatment rather than expenses.
• Wellbeing support: Counseling, emotional support, and peer networks.
• Flexible work arrangements: Some Ayala companies are offering flexible work setups for employees who act as caregivers.

“Beyond taking the pledge, we recognize that real support means taking action,” Milán added.

Expanding cancer care through AC Health

Alongside the pledge, Ayala continues to strengthen its cancer care initiatives through AC Health’s Healthway Cancer Care Hospital (HCCH) in Arca South, Taguig City.

As the country’s first dedicated cancer specialty hospital, HCCH offers a full range of services, from early screening and diagnosis to treatment and survivorship programs. Over the past year, it has served more than 3,200 patients and provided over 2,000 radiotherapy sessions and 700 chemotherapy treatments.

HCCH collaborates with global pharmaceutical firms, including MSD, AstraZeneca, Roche, and Takeda, alongside government agencies like the DSWD, PCSO, and Taguig LGU to enhance patient access to treatment.

“The establishment of the Healthway Cancer Care Hospital stands as concrete evidence of the Ayala Group’s enduring commitment to bridging gaps in quality healthcare,” said Paolo Borromeo, president and CEO of AC Health.

Global movement for workplace support

The Working with Cancer pledge was launched at the World Economic Forum in Davos in 2023 by Publicis Groupe CEO Arthur Sadoun. In the Philippines, the initiative is championed by AC Health, Publicis Groupe Philippines, and the People Management Association of the Philippines.

Companies interested in fostering a more inclusive workplace for employees affected by cancer can take the pledge at workingwithcancerpledge.com.