Senate President Francis "Chiz" Escudero is a staunch advocate of preventive health care—and for him, that commitment is personal.

His father’s battle with colon cancer left a profound mark on him—reshaping how he prioritizes his health. With a strong family history of cancer and known genetic risk, he champions early detection through routine colon cancer screenings at St. Luke’s Medical Center.

“Genetically, we’re candidates,” Senate President Escudero said. “Many Filipinos don’t realize they may be at risk, too. That’s why screening matters—it gives you a fighting chance to detect it early or prevent it altogether.”

Making Preventive Care a Lifelong Habit

For Senate President Escudero, turning 40 marked a turning point—colorectal cancer screening became a priority, following his doctors’ advice to prevent colon cancer or detect it early for timely treatment. Since then, it has been a regular part of his health routine—a proactive commitment to protecting his colon health against a disease that strikes close to home.

“I was told I should do it every three years,” he shared. When asked about advice for those hesitant about colonoscopies, he said, “There’s nothing to fear. It’s part of preventive care—simple, comfortable, and potentially lifesaving.”

For over 15 years, St. Luke’s Medical Center has been Senate President Escudero’s hospital of choice for colon cancer screening. He continues to choose St. Luke’s for one key reason: trust in its world-class facilities, expert staff, and compassionate care.

“I’ve only been going to St. Luke’s for this procedure,” he said. “The colonoscopy was painless and very comfortable.”

He credits the hospital’s expert physicians and warm environment for making preventive care less intimidating.

“There’s no nervousness or doubt. When you know you’re in the hands of the best, that makes all the difference,” Senate President Escudero said.

Senate President Escudero is a strong believer in the power of early detection, especially when it comes to cancer and knowing the status of your colon health.

“Colon cancer is hereditary. If someone in your family had it, chances are you’re also at risk. The cost of screening is minimal compared to the emotional and financial toll of a late diagnosis.”

He also highlights that preventive care is not only doable—it’s practical.

“Preventive care is cheaper. It spares you the pain, the inconvenience, and the heartache. It’s always better to act early than to be caught off guard.”

Even with a packed schedule as Senate President, Escudero stresses that there’s always time for health.

“If you balance work, family, and personal priorities, you’ll see that 24 hours is enough. I’ve made time for my health, and so can you.”

Senate President Escudero’s message is simple and urgent: Don’t wait.

“Everything we did when we were younger, we’ll start to pay for as we grow older. That’s why we need to know what to strengthen, improve, and watch out for. Regular check-ups and screenings give us that information.”

He urges Filipinos—especially those age 50 and older without a family history or symptoms, or those with a family history of colon cancer (starting 10 years earlier than the age of the diagnosed family member) or experiencing symptoms like changes in bowel habits, abdominal pain, or unexplained weight loss—to make preventive health care part of their routine.

“Your health is your wealth. Don’t gamble with it. Get screened.”

For Senate President Escudero and his family, St. Luke’s is more than just a hospital—it’s a trusted partner in health and wellness.

“St. Luke’s is the only one we trust,” he said. “They have the best minds in medicine—experts in diagnosis, treatment, and prevention.”

Take control of your health. Schedule your colon cancer screening at St. Luke’s Medical Center today.

Book your screening at www.stlukes.com.ph or schedule an appointment now.