Urgent Call to Address Rising HIV Cases
The Philippines is facing a critical health challenge as the rising HIV cases demand urgent government action. The United Nations Programme on HIV/AIDS (UNAIDS) and the World Health Organization (WHO) have voiced strong support for the Department of Health’s (DOH) plea to declare HIV a high-priority health concern through an executive order by President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.
UNAIDS and WHO highlight that the Philippines now experiences the fastest-growing HIV epidemic in the Asia-Pacific region. New infections surged by 550 percent, climbing from 4,400 cases in 2010 to nearly 29,600 in 2024. “The numbers paint a stark picture that demands our immediate attention and coordinated action across all levels of government and society,” a local health leader said.
Current HIV Situation in the Philippines
As of March 2025, approximately 252,800 Filipinos live with HIV, but only 55 percent have been diagnosed. Of those diagnosed, about 66 percent are receiving antiretroviral therapy (ART). However, viral load testing remains low, with only 40 percent of those tested achieving viral suppression, which signals effective control of the virus.
Alarmingly, one in three new infections reported in early 2025 involved young Filipinos aged 15 to 24, underscoring the growing vulnerability of the youth population. Experts stress that addressing this trend requires a comprehensive approach beyond healthcare alone.
Funding Gaps and Prevention Challenges
Despite the alarming rise in cases, HIV prevention programs remain severely underfunded. Last year, only 6 percent of the national HIV budget was allocated to prevention efforts. Compounding this, the pause in U.S. funding delayed vital prevention initiatives and community-driven responses, widening the gap in effective outreach.
UNAIDS and WHO urge the Philippine National AIDS Council to adopt the HIV Prevention Roadmap and call on agencies like PhilHealth to guarantee universal access to HIV testing, treatment, and prevention services. They emphasize that a whole-of-government and whole-of-society response is essential.
Support for Executive Order and Coordinated Leadership
The two UN agencies reiterate their backing for the DOH’s request to declare HIV a public health emergency. Such an executive order would mobilize resources and foster strong multi-sectoral cooperation to curb the epidemic.
“This executive order lays the groundwork for stronger multi-sectoral engagement, increased resource mobilization, and firm political will—essential factors in helping reverse the trajectory of rising HIV cases,” a WHO official noted.
They also recommend appointing a senior official to lead a more coordinated national HIV response, drawing from lessons in managing other health crises. The response must include education, stigma reduction, and support for vulnerable groups.
Political Commitment and Global Leadership
With the recent national elections concluded, UNAIDS and WHO emphasize the need for sustained political commitment to ensure continuity in the HIV response. The Philippines’ recent election to the UNAIDS Programme Coordinating Board and presidency of the 78th World Health Assembly offer a platform to showcase leadership.
“The Philippines has an opportunity to take rapid action to reverse the recent trend in HIV. Through multi-sectoral efforts, evidence-based strategies, and empowering community-led initiatives, the epidemic can be curbed,” a health expert said. The agencies pledged to provide technical support and strategic guidance to help the country implement an urgent, effective, and sustained HIV response.
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