10/04/2025
HIV/AIDS 101
On March 28, 2025, a successful HIV Seminar and Free and Voluntary HIV Screening was conducted at the Abellana National School Gymnasium. This important initiative was held in partnership with the Philippine Catholic HIV/AIDS Network (PHILCHAN) and was made possible through the active assistance of the ANS Red Cross Youth Council. The event was attended by 4sections of Grade 11 & 1 section Grade 8 students of Abellana National School, who were given the opportunity to learn about HIV/AIDS—its causes, prevention, and the importance of early detection. The seminar aimed to raise awareness, break the stigma surrounding HIV, and empower the youth with accurate and life-saving information. Our speakers: Dr. Greta U. Canoy, Ms. Maria Taping and Ms. Maria Ligaya Suico, MS Chem, RCh, and trained volunteers from PHILCHAN facilitated the seminar and conducted confidential HIV screenings for students who volunteered to take part. The activity emphasized not only health and safety but also compassion and community support. Overall, the seminar was a meaningful step towards promoting health education and responsible decision-making among young individuals. It also highlighted the importance of community partnerships in addressing public health concerns.