By Darryl John Esguerra | Philippine News Agency
Department of Health (DOH) Secretary Teodoro Herbosa on Thursday said the DOH is ramping up efforts to curb the alarming rise in human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) cases in the country, as the agency pushes for a national public health emergency declaration and expands access to testing and treatment.
Speaking at a press briefing in Malacañang, Herbosa said the health department has intensified the distribution of free anti-retroviral drugs (ARVs) to people living with HIV (PLHIV).
From January to March 2025, the Philippines recorded an average of 57 new HIV cases per day —a 500% increase compared to the same period last year. Most of the newly reported infections were among males, with 33% aged 15–24 and 47% aged 25–34, according to DOH data.
Herbosa said President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. has instructed the DOH to streamline services for PLHIV, including launching appointment systems in key hospitals like San Lazaro and Fabella for easier access to treatment and consultation.
“Sa sistemang ito, masisiguro din natin na regular na ang pagkonsulta ng mga persons living with HIV at regular na ding makukuha ang libreng maintenance ARV drugs,” he said.
Herbosa said HIV is no longer a death sentence, likening the viral disease to high blood or diabetes, which can be addressed through maintenance medication, allowing patients to live normally.
Health emergency declaration
The Health chief also confirmed he has submitted a recommendation to the Office of the President to declare a national public health emergency on HIV, as advised by the Philippine National AIDS Council.
“Naka-schedule na ang meetings namin niyan sa Cabinet… Ang recommendation ng pagdeklara ng public health emergency ay binigay ng Philippine National AIDS Council,” Herbosa said.
He also assured the public of sufficient ARV supplies in government hubs and added that a newly approved self-test HIV kit is now available for personal use, although reactive results still require confirmatory testing at DOH-accredited centers.
Stigma still major concern
In response to growing concerns over stigma and discrimination, Herbosa highlighted the need for a nationwide awareness campaign to normalize testing and reduce fear among the public.
The DOH is also working with international partners and civil society to further strengthen education efforts and normalize open discussions about HIV status.
Herbosa reiterated that while HIV remains incurable, it is manageable with consistent treatment.
The Philippines, home to 117 million people, remains one of the fastest-growing HIV hotspots, with the DOH urging everyone at risk to get tested early and seek treatment.
