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Report Philippines' National Call to Action: Tackle Soaring HIV Crisis
File photo for reference only In a significant move, the United Nations Programme on HIV/AIDS (UNAIDS) and the World Health Organization (WHO) have publicly endorsed the Philippines' Department of Health (DOH) in its urgent call for President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. to prioritise HIV as a high-priority health concern. This comes amidst alarming data that places the Philippines at the forefront of the fastest-growing HIV epidemic in the Asia-Pacific region. Back in 2010, HIV cases in the Philippines were recorded at 4,400. Fast forward to 2024, and projections estimate this number will soar to 29,600, reflecting a disturbing increase of 550%. These numbers provide a stark reality check, underlining the critical need for immediate and coordinated action at all levels of government and society. Dr. Louie Ocampo, UNAIDS Country Director, emphasised the gravity of the situation: "We cannot afford to treat HIV as a health sector issue alone. It requires a whole-of-government, whole-of-society response." Despite the gravity of the epidemic, significant challenges persist in diagnosing and treating those with HIV. Of the estimated 252,800 Filipinos currently living with HIV, only 139,610 have been diagnosed. Furthermore, of those diagnosed, just 66% are receiving antiretroviral therapy (ART). Even more concerning is the data showing that only 40% of those on treatment have achieved viral suppression, indicating effective control of the virus. Particularly alarming is the rising infection rate among the youth. In the first quarter of 2025, one in three new HIV cases involved Filipinos aged 15 to 24, signalling an urgent need for targeted interventions and education aimed at young people. Funding remains a significant hurdle in combating the crisis. In 2023, a mere 6% of the national HIV budget, equivalent to approximately P211 million, was allocated to prevention efforts. This financial oversight is compounded by a recent halt in funding from the United States, delaying the rollout of crucial prevention initiatives and constraining community-led responses. Both UNAIDS and WHO have strongly urged the Philippine National AIDS Council to implement an HIV Prevention Roadmap and have called on agencies, including the Philippine Health Insurance Corporation (PhilHealth), to ensure universal access to necessary HIV-related services such as prevention, treatment, and testing. The potential issuance of an executive order declaring HIV a public health emergency is seen as a pivotal step. "This executive order lays the groundwork for stronger multi-sectoral engagement, increased resource mobilisation, and firm political will—essential factors in helping reverse the trajectory of rising HIV cases," stated WHO Officer-in-Charge Dr. Eunyoung Ko. Such an order would catalyse increased partnerships, elevate political commitment, and mobilise resources, needed to combat the epidemic effectively. The lessons learned from previous health emergencies like COVID-19, polio, and measles strongly advocate for a coordinated national response that transcends healthcare alone. The focus must extend to include comprehensive education initiatives, efforts to reduce stigma, and support for vulnerable groups. UNAIDS and WHO have also called for appointing a senior official to lead these efforts, ensuring that strategies are well-aligned and effective. As the presidential term progresses beyond the May 2025 elections, sustaining political commitment across administrations is of utmost importance. Furthermore, the recent election of the Philippines to the UNAIDS Programme Coordinating Board and its presidency of the 78th World Health Assembly offer the country an opportunity to set a global example in leading an effective HIV response. “The Philippines has an opportunity to take rapid action to reverse the recent trend in HIV,” outlined Dr. Eunyoung Ko. "By demonstrating multi-sectoral efforts, advancing evidence-based strategies, and empowering community-led initiatives, we can curb the epidemic and protect Filipinos. UNAIDS and WHO are ready to provide technical support and strategic guidance through the Global Health Sector Strategies on HIV, viral hepatitis, and sexually transmitted infections (2022–2030) to drive an urgent, effective, and sustained national response." With a collective effort, it is possible to change the trajectory of the HIV crisis in the Philippines, ensuring a healthier future for generations to come. The global health community awaits decisive action and leadership from the Philippine government. Adapted by ASEAN Now from Manila Bulletin 2025-06-11 -
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Crime Prominent Police Hospital Doctor Arrested for Illegally Selling Sleeping Pills
I've been prescribed it twice (0.5mg) as a sleeping pill in Thailand, including at a well-known private hospital in Bangkok a few months ago. My doctor in Australia had a similar reaction to yours when I told him. -
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How much MORE evidence do we need to prove beyond doubt that the mRNA Covid-19 shots kill?
As you most certainly are...see I can also be rude..now will we both go cry in the corner ? A funny and witty retort.... Touché.... ... That actually took some intelligent thought - Fair play. -
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Updates and events in the War in Ukraine 2025
Elon Musk's Father & Lavrov EXPOSE Western Lies About Russia in Bombshell Discussion! -
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Community Couple Spotted Having Sex in Car at Phuket Airport
Having your jollies off in a car? Sounds like me in the 1970's. Brilliant🙃🙃
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