Cagayan de oro: The Department of Health (DOH) 10 (Northern Mindanao) is intensifying its education campaign on awareness and treatment of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) among younger populations and communities in Northern Mindanao.

According to Philippines News Agency, Dr. Wellaflor Kindom Brito, head of DOH-10's Infectious Diseases Cluster, reported in a press briefing that the cumulative total of HIV cases in the region has reached 4,008 as of March 2025. Brito noted notable progress in HIV treatment support and testing throughout the region, with more treatment centers now managed by municipal and city health departments.

"We have persons living with HIV (PLHIV) advocates who openly disclose their status to the public to encourage testing and seek treatment because it is free," she explained. Brito emphasized that individuals undergoing treatment can lead normal lives, and disclosing one's status remains voluntary.

The treatment ensures that a PLHIV can no longer transmit the virus through sexual contact due to a low and undetectable viral load. Additionally, Republic Act 11166, or the Philippine HIV and AIDS Policy Act, provides safety and promotes healthcare support to PLHIV. The law also seeks to protect PLHIVs from discrimination in employment, public ridicule, and unauthorized public disclosure of their identity.