DOH Enhances HIV Awareness and Treatment Initiatives in Northern Mindanao

CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY – The Department of Health (DOH) Region 10 is intensifying its efforts to boost awareness and treatment of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) among younger populations and communities across Northern Mindanao. During a press briefing held on Thursday, July 3, 2025, Dr. Wellaflor Kindom Brito, head of the Infectious Diseases Cluster at DOH-10, announced that the cumulative total of reported HIV cases in the region has reached 4,008 as of March 2025.

In her statement, Dr. Brito emphasized the importance of education and proactive measures in addressing the HIV epidemic. "We have observed significant progress in HIV treatment support and testing throughout the region, with more treatment centers now managed by municipal and city health departments," she noted. The initiative aims to foster a more informed community on the realities of living with HIV and to encourage individuals to seek testing and treatment without stigma.

A focal point of the campaign is the promotion of antiretroviral medication, specifically the combination known as Teldy, which includes Tenofovir, Lamivudine, and Dolutegravir (TLD). This medication is crucial for individuals living with HIV, as it suppresses the virus and allows those undergoing treatment to achieve an undetectable viral load, thereby reducing the risk of transmission. Dr. Brito further remarked, "Those who commit to their treatment can lead normal lives, dispelling the myths surrounding HIV."

The DOH's campaign is supported by Republic Act 11166, known as the Philippine HIV and AIDS Policy Act, which seeks to safeguard individuals living with HIV from discrimination and promotes healthcare support. This legislation not only encourages safe practices but also ensures that the rights and dignity of persons living with HIV (PLHIV) are upheld.

Dr. Brito acknowledged the role of PLHIV advocates who have bravely disclosed their status to encourage others to pursue testing and treatment. "Our advocacy is about normalizing the conversation around HIV and ensuring that individuals feel safe and supported in their healthcare decisions," she stated.

The urgency of these initiatives comes against the backdrop of rising HIV cases in the region, reflecting broader trends seen nationally. According to the 2023 report from the Philippines’ Epidemiology Bureau, the country has experienced a surge in HIV cases over the past decade, necessitating immediate public health interventions.

Various health experts have noted that comprehensive education and accessible treatment are imperative in reversing this trend. Dr. Maria Elena Santos, an epidemiologist at the University of the Philippines College of Medicine, indicated that community-level interventions are critical for effective prevention and treatment. "Education is a powerful tool in combating the stigma surrounding HIV, which often deters individuals from seeking help," she said in a 2023 interview with the Philippine Journal of Public Health.

Moreover, the World Health Organization emphasizes that countries must prioritize HIV treatment accessibility to achieve global health targets. In their 2022 Global AIDS Update, the WHO underscored the importance of supporting vulnerable populations through targeted awareness campaigns and comprehensive healthcare services.

As the DOH pushes forward with its campaign in Northern Mindanao, the ongoing collaboration with local health departments and advocacy groups is expected to play a pivotal role in increasing testing rates and expanding treatment options. The initiative is not only about improving health outcomes but also about fostering an inclusive environment where individuals can seek help without fear of judgment.

Looking ahead, the DOH aims to sustain momentum in its efforts to combat HIV, with plans to further integrate education into school curriculums and community programs. Dr. Brito concluded by stressing the importance of collective action in combating the HIV epidemic, stating, "Together, we can create a healthier future for all."

In summary, the Department of Health’s initiative in Northern Mindanao represents a critical step towards enhancing awareness and treatment of HIV, reflecting both local and global commitments to health equity and social justice.