Bacolod Launches School-Based HIV/AIDS Education Campaign, Introduces G-Cares Platform

February 14, 2026

Mayor Greg Gasataya delivering his message during the launch of Bacolod City’s School-Based HIV/AIDS Education Campaign and the introduction of the G-Cares digital platform at the BCC Gym Monday.*

The Bacolod City Government has officially launched its School-Based HIV/AIDS Education Campaign, strengthening prevention efforts among the youth while introducing a new digital platform that makes HIV services more accessible and confidential for Bacolodnons.

The gathering recently held at the Bacolod City College Gymnasium marked a major step in the city’s intensified response to rising HIV cases.

A key highlight of the event was the soft launch of G-Cares, the City Government’s official HIV/AIDS Online Platform Service. Designed to remove barriers to care, the platform will soon allow users to book HIV testing and consultations, request medical assistance, access free testing referrals, connect to counseling services, and receive verified HIV-related information directly through their smartphones.

Once fully operational, G-Cares will ensure strict confidentiality measures to protect the privacy of individuals seeking support.

Mayor Greg Gasataya emphasized that digital access is crucial in addressing the growing concern on HIV.

“We are launching a program that is easily accessible through your mobile phones. Negros Occidental, including Bacolod City, is among the areas in the Philippines with a high number of HIV cases. This prompted us to strengthen our educational programs and make services more accessible to everyone,” Mayor Gasataya said.

He added that putting services online ensures that help is within reach.

“Through this platform, Bacolodnons can access health services safely and confidentially. No fear, no stigma — just support when you need it,” he said.

Since July 2025, the City Government has intensified its HIV/AIDS awareness campaign in public and private high schools, colleges, and various workplaces to ensure accurate and science-based information reaches all sectors.

As of late 2025, Bacolod City has recorded 1,312 HIV cases, placing it 22nd among more than 140 local government units nationwide. City officials stressed that behind these numbers are real people — sons, daughters, parents, friends, and loved ones — who may be silently facing the challenges of HIV.

During the launch, health officials presented key prevention strategies, highlighting the importance of early testing, access to correct information, stigma reduction, and shared responsibility in curbing the spread of the virus.

City officials also reminded the public that persons living with HIV are protected under Republic Act No. 11166, or the Philippine HIV and AIDS Policy Act, and other existing laws that safeguard their rights and access to services.

Mayor Gasataya reassured Bacolodnons living with HIV/AIDS of the City Government’s full support.

“If you are living with HIV/AIDS, know that you have an entire city that supports you. Let us break the stigma and spread kindness and compassion,” the Mayor said.

Through strengthened education campaigns and the rollout of the G-Cares platform, Bacolod City continues to advance accessible, modern, and compassionate public health services for all.* (Bacolod City Communications Office text & photo)