63 lives lost to AIDS in Cordillera, reveals DOH

Tabuk City, Kalinga – As of 2023, 63 individuals had succumbed to acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS).

This was disclosed by the region’s health department in a press release Friday, May 10. A separate report mentioned that seven of them died from January to August last year.

The monitoring of data with regards to said illness started in 1984.

Mr. Darwin Babon, DOH-CAR HIV-AIDS Program Manager, said these individuals only include those who get tested for the virus. He added said number might be higher if more residents were tested.

One reason why some refuse to get tested is the stigma that has been attached to people who are suffering from said illness.

In connection, on May 9, an event commemorating these people who lost their lives to the virus was held.

The event - the candle-lighting ceremony also serves as a campaign to raise social awareness about HIV and aids, which has been conducted by DOH-CAR.

It was joined by more than a hundred staff and supporters.

In said event, Dr. Virginia Narciso, Division Chief – Local Health Systems Division of DOH-CAR underscored that everyone should be an ally and be one of those advocating for HIV and AIDS prevention, treatment, and support services.

Combating the stigma and discrimination was likewise echoed, encouraging the joiners to do something about it.

To recall, the health department has been playing its role in the fight against the illness. HIV treatment hubs have been established, while efforts to reach far-flung areas have also made for free HIV-AIDS and other free health services.

The regional health department is also currently working on one of their banner programs - the NAMNAMA project.

This stands for Nurturing Awareness, Mobilizing Networks, and Advocating to Mitigate the Impact of AIDS in the Cordillera.

For individuals who have queries or concerns regarding HIV and AIDS, STI-HIV NAMNAMA can be contacted through these hotlines – 0962-990-3804 and 0966-081-7713.