As of May 2009 the National Epidemiology Center reported that there is roughly estimation of 3,911 HIV+/AIDS reported cases as of May 2009, 55 % were males having sex with females and 45 % were males having sex with males. In the recent study conducted by Philippine General Hospital in PGH alone they have 528 cases in 2008 and it increases to 709 as of 2009 despite of the different campaigns done by Anti-AIDS/HIV advocates, cases of patients infected with the Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) that causes Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome (AIDS) increases rapidly. As the population of the infected cases increases so is the age range getting younger, based on the 2007 data of National Epidemiology Center, 89% of those infected with HIV/AIDS engaged with unsafe sex, 72% from it were males. The peek age bracket for males is 25-29 years old as first from the chart followed by 30-34 years old and 20-24 years old is ranked as third. The youth is becoming experimenting with their sexuality, freedom and easy access on the internet engaged themselves to unsafe sex and drugs, the two major ways of the transmission of the virus. We are aware on the current situation of AIDS in the Philippines and how it weakens our chance of fulfilling the United Nation Millennium Development Goal that is due on 2015. HIV/AIDS is ranked as number 6 in UN MDGs priority: Combat Aids, Malaria and other diseases.
On February 11, 6:30 PM Dialogues @ Starbucks presents a discussion on HIV/AIDS with two HIV positive advocates Wanggo Gallaga and Jerico Paterno at the Starbucks 6750 Ayala Avenue, Makati City. With them are:
Dr. Susana Gregorio- Philippine National AIDS Council
Ms. Joan Corbe- Philippine National AIDS Council
Mr. Bong Yap- AIDS Society of the Philippines
Mr. Edgar Hilario - AIDS Society of the Philippines/ DOH Media
Ms. Diane Mendoza- AIDS Society of the Philippines
Dr. Edelina dela Paz- Health Action Information Network, Inc.
Ms. Emely Maghari- Health Action Information Network, Inc.
On Valentine’s Day let’s not just talk about love alone, but let’s include health and respect and learn the current situation of HIV/AIDS in our country and how we will prevent and act against it. The mini forum is open to all, fell free to join this brewing social concern. I’m not an HIV positive / or AIDS patient, but the issue concerns all and it does affects me and my family. Be there and take part of this global fight against the virus. Spread the awareness and not the virus!
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