Philippines Declares National Emergency to Combat Alarming HIV Surge

MANILA, Philippines – On June 9, 2025, the Department of Health (DOH) urged President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. to declare a national public health emergency in response to a staggering 500-percent increase in new human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) cases, making the Philippines the country with the fastest-growing number of people living with HIV (PLHIV) in the Western Pacific region. According to Health Secretary Teodoro Herbosa, the alarming surge, which has seen daily cases rise to an average of 57 during the first quarter of 2025, necessitates immediate and comprehensive action from all sectors of society to stem the tide of new infections.

The DOH reported a total of 148,831 HIV cases from January 1984 to March 2025, with transmission predominantly occurring through sexual contact. However, a significant shift has been observed towards men who have sex with men (MSM) as the primary demographic affected, a trend that has been evident since 2007. This growing prevalence among younger individuals is particularly concerning, with a notable increase in cases among those aged below 15, which has surged by 133 percent, according to health department data.

In light of these developments, experts argue that while the declaration of a national emergency may raise public awareness, it must be accompanied by tangible solutions to effectively curb the rising infection rates, especially among youth. Former health secretary Janette Garin emphasized the need for increased accessibility to antiretroviral medicines and expanded awareness campaigns. “The rise in cases was expected because the availability of tests and public awareness have driven the numbers up,” Garin stated.

The 2023 study, “Exploring the HIV Epidemic in the Philippines: Initiatives and Challenges,” published in the Journal of Public Health Policy, highlights the challenges faced despite legislative efforts such as the Philippine HIV and AIDS Policy Act of 2018 (Republic Act No. 11166). This act aims to enhance comprehensive strategies for prevention, treatment, and care, yet it has not significantly curtailed the surge in new HIV cases. Researchers attribute this persistence to factors such as low usage of preventive measures like condoms and pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP), particularly among MSM, and the influence of conservative societal norms stemming from the Catholic Church, which often opposes comprehensive sexual education.

Dr. Maria Santos, an epidemiologist at the University of the Philippines, noted that the conservative stance on sexual health education has created significant barriers to effective prevention strategies. “Many parents are not equipped to discuss sexual health with their children, and this lack of knowledge perpetuates the cycle of misinformation and stigma,” Dr. Santos explained.

In contrast, Thailand serves as a potential model for effective HIV epidemic management, having successfully reduced their infection rates through initiatives such as the 100% Condom Program and comprehensive public health campaigns initiated in the 1990s. The Thai government’s partnership with civil society and PLHIV organizations played a critical role in the success of these programs, demonstrating the importance of an inclusive approach to public health challenges.

The urgency of the situation in the Philippines calls for a multifaceted response that prioritizes education, accessibility, and community engagement. As the country grapples with this escalating public health crisis, stakeholders must work collaboratively to implement effective interventions that can reverse the alarming trend of HIV infections and improve the lives of those affected. The potential breach of 400,000 PLHIV cases by 2030, as projected by the DOH, underscores the critical need for immediate action.

In conclusion, while the declaration of a national emergency may serve as a catalyst for change, it is the implementation of comprehensive and informed strategies that will ultimately determine the path forward in controlling the HIV epidemic in the Philippines. The government must focus on fostering an environment where open discussions about sexual health are normalized, and practical solutions are put in place to protect the health and well-being of all Filipinos.