President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has directed the Department of Health (DOH) to streamline and expand its HIV-related services following a significant surge
Health Secretary Teodoro Herbosa provides updates on measures currently being taken by the government to address rising HIV cases during a Palace press briefing on June 5, 2025. President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has directed the Department of Health to streamline and expand its HIV-related services following a significant surge in infections, with 57 new cases reported daily from January to March 2025.
To help manage patient flow and improve continuity of care, the DOH has introduced an appointment system in major HIV treatment hubs such as San Lazaro and Fabella hospitals. The agency also announced the availability of a new HIV self-testing kit, recently approved by the Food and Drug Administration, now being sold in local pharmacies. Confirmatory testing, however, remains a requirement at certified facilities.
The health chief stressed that the fight against HIV especially among the youth will require not only expanded services, but also stronger legislation, sustained funding, and a nationwide information campaign. ‘‘We need to revisit current laws. Right now, mandatory testing is limited to female sex workers, yet most new cases are among men who have sex with men,’’ he said.
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