Ilocos norte: The Provincial Health Office (PHO) of Ilocos Norte has intensified its information and education drive to prevent the spread of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) amid new cases in the province. Based on data released on Monday, the Provincial Health Office reported 22 new cases-21 male and one female-occurring from January to March this year.

According to Philippines News Agency, Dr. Rickson Balalio, the provincial health officer of Ilocos Norte, highlighted the importance of safe sex in a media interview on Monday, urging the public to take care of themselves and others. The PHO noted that the majority of the new cases were individuals aged 25 to 34 years old, with additional cases reported in the 15 to 24 age group.

Dr. Balalio stated that the increase in reported HIV cases indicates growing public awareness and willingness to undergo screening. Public and private organizations, including academic institutions, have joined forces to enhance awareness about HIV prevention.

As of March 2025, the Provincial Health Office has recorded a total of 461 HIV cases in Ilocos Norte since the first case in the Philippines in 1984. Currently, 303 patients are receiving therapy or free anti-retroviral drugs at a treatment hub located in the Mariano Marcos Memorial Hospital and Medical Center.

In Laoag, the City Health Office is actively offering free daily HIV testing and screening services, alongside community outreach to improve access and awareness in distant areas. An organized HIV council has also partnered with the Department of Education and the Commission on Higher Education (CHED) to advocate for the inclusion of HIV awareness in school curricula, as mandated by Republic Act 11166, also known as the 'Philippine HIV and AIDS Policy Act.'

HIV is known to compromise the human body's natural defense against diseases and infections, potentially leading to Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome (AIDS) if untreated. Health experts consistently emphasize the ABCDEs of HIV prevention: A for abstinence, B for being mutually faithful, C for the correct and consistent use of condoms, D for avoiding drug use and sharing syringes, and E for the importance of education about HIV.