President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. directed the Department of Health (DOH) to expedite medical assistance for individuals living with HIV, following a reported 500% increase in infections among young Filipinos.
Health Secretary Teodoro Herbosa highlighted that from January to March 2025, an average of 57 new HIV cases were recorded daily.
In response, the DOH has intensified the distribution of free antiretroviral (ARV) drugs and implemented a patient appointment system at San Lazaro Hospital and Dr. Jose Fabella Memorial Hospital to streamline consultations and medication access. The Cabinet is also considering declaring a national public health emergency to address the surge in cases.
The DOH continues to advocate for combination prevention methods, including condom use and pre-exposure prophylaxis, and encourages individuals to utilize free, confidential HIV testing services. | via Dann Miranda | Photo via PNA
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