DOH Calls for Stronger HIV Advocacy, World AIDS Day Program Opens at SM City Bacolod

SM City Bacolod became a central venue for health advocacy as the Department of Health – Negros Island Region and partner agencies gathered at the mall’s North Block on December 1 for the global observance of World AIDS Day 2025, themed “Overcoming Disruption, Transforming the AIDS Response.”

This year’s event aimed to raise public awareness on HIV prevention, testing, and treatment; promote voluntary HIV counseling and testing; and link individuals to comprehensive HIV services. Free HIV counseling and testing, tuberculosis symptoms screening, community-based screening, and distribution of information and education materials were offered throughout the day.

DOH NIR Assistant Regional Director Adrian Hort Ramos underscored the progress made in HIV awareness, citing declining stigma and the strengthened support of healthcare workers across various institutions who continue to guide individuals toward appropriate care. He emphasized that with accessible screening, counseling, and treatment, HIV is no longer the death sentence it once was.

Representing Bacolod Mayor Greg Gasataya, executive assistant Johnathan Diaz shared the city’s continued efforts to expand HIV support through a dedicated center, increased personnel, improved access to medicines, and sustained education initiatives.

The event was mounted with the support of Corazon Locsin Montelibano Memorial Regional Hospital, the Provincial Health Office, Bacolod City Health Office, AMLIG Health Clinic, SHIP, AIDS Healthcare Foundation, ICAP Global Health, Bagani Community Center, Pilipinas Shell Foundation, and other partners.

SM City Bacolod reaffirmed its commitment to championing community health through accessible and inclusive initiatives.* (MC)