Advocates raised the need for vigilance and prevention against human immunodeficiency virus (HIV).
Department of Health Central Luzon Regional HIV Program Manager Joseph Michael Manlutac disclosed that 31 people are being diagnosed with HIV per day, making the cumulative cases at 85,000 as of March 2021.
“We need a whole-of-government, and a whole-of-society approach to combat HIV. We are in this together like our fight against COVID-19. All of us are vulnerable,” he said.
Manlutac is quick to clarify that the figure is only 70 percent of the epidemic, and there are still 30 percent of missing cases, thus, underscored the need to strengthen HIV testing and awareness in the communities.
With this, POSH Bataan Incorporated, a support group in propagating awareness on HIV and other sexually transmitted infections, Executive Director Dave Vanzuela shared that advocates initiated HIV helplines to cater concerns despite the restrictions brought by the pandemic.
“We should not forget that the problem is still there. We should continue our vigilance, and our information drive to prevent it. While we are busy focusing on COVID-19, we should also not lose our focus on these [HIV] problems,” he stated.
Vanzuela mentioned that clients could reach out to the existing helplines in the provinces of Bataan, Bulacan, and Pampanga to be linked in the nearest facility, and access services for free.
Aside from this, Manlutac announced that there are 28 facilities in the region which provide free antiretroviral treatment for HIV positive individuals.
“This is not only a talk about health. This is also a talk about individuals, families, and communities. We really need the help of one another to fight HIV infection,” he furthered.
Rural health units and community centers are also giving free testing for HIV or AIDS (Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome).
Meanwhile, Central Luzon participated in the celebration of the International AIDS Candlelight Memorial which is a commemoration to remember those who died from AIDS-related illnesses; to show support to people living with HIV; and to demonstrate the importance of civil society for HIV prevention, treatment, care and support.
“We had a kick off last May 16 where we had an online mass offering. It is really a challenge to conduct activities at this moment so what we did is we shifted online. This is for HIV and COVID-19 warriors,” Manlutac stated.
DOH Region 3 also organized a digital art contest for professional and non-professional artists to express HIV awareness in social media for heightened information drive.
Moreover, “Caring for Carers” will pay tribute to service providers, field workers, and community volunteers on the fight against HIV/AIDS on May 28.
“You have created ripples of change and lighted the way towards the causes of the program—of saving lives and protecting our communities,” Manlutac said.
For its part, Vanzuela said his organization is partnering with other community-based organizations, and patient support groups for continuous advocacies for the commemoration.
“This is not just a mere celebration. We are celebrating life, and honoring the souls of our departed ones. Join us, as we remember each life we’ve lost and the people fighting with us now. Together, let us take this action to make everyone safe, healthy and alive,” he addressed.
Respective local government units are also doing their own share in the commemoration by providing HIV/AIDS awareness in the community via online activities.