02/12/2025
24 ๐๐ฃ๐๐๐ซ๐๐๐ช๐๐ก๐จ ๐ช๐ฃ๐๐๐ง๐๐ค ๐๐ง๐๐ ๐๐๐ ๐ฉ๐๐จ๐ฉ๐๐ฃ๐ ๐๐จ ๐ฟ๐๐ซ๐๐ค ๐๐ง๐๐๐ฃ๐ฉ๐๐ก ๐ข๐๐ง๐ ๐จ ๐๐ค๐ง๐ก๐ ๐ผ๐๐ฟ๐ ๐ฟ๐๐ฎ
In line with the observance of World AIDS Day, the Provincial Health Office of Davao Oriental, in collaboration with Mati Doctors Academy, Davao Oriental Provincial Medical Center, Provincial DOH Office, City Health Office and the support of the Davao Center for Health Development, held an HIV awareness activity yesterday that highlighted the importance of early detection, proper information, and stigma-free conversations.
A total of 24 individuals availed of the free HIV counseling and testing, including members of the LGBTQIA+ community in the city. Several health officials also took the test themselves, setting an example of good health practices and responsible health-seeking behavior.
The activity featured discussions on the current HIV/AIDS situation, HIV 101, and RA 11166, along with an open forum and a personal testimony from a person living with HIV โ a reminder that real stories are at the heart of this advocacy.
Dr. Reden V. Bersaldo, PHO II and Chief of Hospital of DOPMC, encouraged the public to get tested early, noting that early detection leads to early treatment and better outcomes.
According to the Provincial HIV Program Manager, Mr. Mark Jade dela Cruz, this call is especially important as recent data show that 309 individuals in Davao Oriental have tested positive for HIV, a number that continues to push local agencies to strengthen awareness efforts.
With this yearโs theme, โOvercoming Disruption, Transforming the AIDS Response,โ the province continues to promote understanding, compassion, and timely access to health services โ proving that collective action remains key in ending stigma and protecting communities.
