Philippine National AIDS Council Urges Govt to Declare HIV a Public Health Emergency

The Philippine National AIDS Council is urging President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. to declare HIV a public health emergency due to a significant increase in infections, especially among Filipino youth aged 15 to 24. The Department of Health has also called for this declaration, highlighting a 550% rise in HIV cases from 2010 to 2023, with a growing number of new cases among young people.

Olofofo

Jul 17, 2025 - 20:18

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Philippine National AIDS Council Urges Govt to Declare HIV a Public Health Emergency

The Philippine National AIDS Council (PNAC) has urged President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. to declare HIV a public health emergency due to the rising infections, especially among Filipino youth aged 15 to 24. The Department of Health (DOH) previously requested the President to sign an executive order (EO) declaring HIV a public health emergency, citing a 550-percent increase in cases from 2010 to 2023, with almost half of the new cases affecting young people.

Dr. Joselito Feliciano, PNAC's executive director, emphasized that the situation has escalated into a national emergency rather than just a health issue. He highlighted that the EO could enhance access to contraceptives and awareness. Feliciano warned that without prompt action, the situation would deteriorate further.

The EO aims to mobilize national and local resources, particularly in local government units (LGUs), to combat HIV more effectively by improving condom access, testing, and information accuracy. LGUs will spearhead condom distribution in areas like red-light districts, motels, and spas, where sexual activities commonly occur.

Neoman Roxas, a program officer of AIDS Health care Foundation (AHF) Philippines, expressed concerns about youth contracting HIV at a young age, impacting their development, education, mental health, and future. AHF Philippines and youth groups echoed support for the DOH's call to declare HIV a national public health emergency.

Under Republic Act 11166, all government agencies are mandated to aid the national HIV response. The EO is expected to bolster implementation and resource mobilization across various sectors to address the escalating HIV crisis.

There are 228 government-accredited treatment facilities providing free and confidential HIV testing and treatment, many of which are part of the DOH's social hygiene clinic network and receive support from youth-serving organizations and civil society groups.

According to the source: The Manila Times.