Baguio city: The Department of Health in the Cordillera Administrative Region (DOH-CAR) reported significant health improvements among individuals living with human immunodeficiency virus (PLHIV) who have participated in retroviral therapy.
According to Philippines News Agency, Darwin Babon, the regional program manager for the HIV-AIDS prevention and control program at DOH-CAR, shared during a press briefing that out of the 1,349 diagnosed cases since 2025, 955 are receiving anti-retroviral therapy, with 559 already achieving a low viral load, indicating a non-transmissible status. This progress underscores the effectiveness of the region's HIV awareness campaigns, particularly in Baguio City.
Babon emphasized the critical role of Baguio City, which accounts for over 50 percent of HIV cases in the region. The city now hosts four treatment centers that serve more than 80 percent of PLHIV in the Cordillera. The region has recorded a total of 1,428 HIV cases since 1984, with 79 deaths reported.
Despite challenges with logistics, Babon assured that the supply of necessary medications for those undergoing anti-retroviral therapy remains uninterrupted. The region's HIV awareness efforts have been bolstered by the introduction of various testing options, including self-testing and community testing. Baguio City has also established a convergence center to provide counseling, testing, and referrals without the stigma often associated with traditional medical facilities.
Results from a study by the epidemiology unit of the City Health Services Office indicate improved health habits among Baguio residents. Awareness about HIV, testing locations, and appropriate testing times has increased, with the convergence center playing a crucial role in bridging accessibility gaps.
Babon noted the importance of testing in ensuring the survival of PLHIV, as many who succumb to the disease are unaware of their HIV status and do not receive therapy. Dr. Celia Flor Brillantes, Baguio City health officer, highlighted the success of the 'Namnama' (hope) convergence center, which sees 10 to 20 visitors daily for inquiries and testing.
Dr. Brillantes also mentioned that Dr. Saia Ma'u Piukala, the World Health Organization's regional director for the Asia Pacific, expressed admiration for the Namnama clinic during his visit in May. The clinic, operating from 1 p.m. to 10 p.m., is designed to ensure privacy for those seeking testing, making it a pioneering initiative in both the Philippines and the Cordillera region.
