Phl reaffirms commitment to HIV response

The Philippines has reaffirmed its strong commitment to sustainable progress in the fight against HIV, according to the Department of Health (DOH).

In a statement released last week, the DOH said Secretary Teodoro Herbosa conveyed this assurance during a meeting with representatives of the Joint United Nations Programme on HIV/AIDS (UNAIDS) at the 78th Session of the World Health Assembly in Geneva, Switzerland.

Herbosa emphasized the country’s active involvement in the Global AIDS Monitoring process in partnership with UNAIDS, enabling the Philippines to track progress and use data to guide its HIV strategies.

He also reiterated the government’s dedication to a comprehensive, rights-based, and community-centered approach to HIV prevention.

The statement follows alarming figures from 2024, showing the country is recording an average of 55 new HIV cases per day, highlighting the pressing need for intensified and coordinated action.

Recent global developments, however, have posed challenges to the local HIV response. The termination of an agreement between the U.S. government and UNAIDS, due to a freeze in foreign aid, has disrupted UNAIDS-led efforts, affecting technical assistance and advocacy support in the Philippines.

To overcome these obstacles, Herbosa said the government is stepping up key initiatives, including proposed amendments to the Implementing Rules and Regulations (IRR) of Republic Act 11166, or the Philippine HIV and AIDS Policy Act.

Additionally, an executive order is being prepared to formally declare HIV an urgent public health concern. This measure is intended to catalyze nationwide efforts in prevention, testing, diagnosis, treatment, and control.

As a newly appointed member of the UNAIDS Programme Coordinating Board for a three-year term, the Philippines will continue contributing to global HIV initiatives and is expected to participate in its first board meeting in June 2025.