By Camille Sison | December 01, 2023

Ignorance shouldn't be the cause of anyone's demise.

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Every year since 1988, December 1st has been dedicated to observing 'World AIDS Day,' serving as a reminder of the global battle against HIV-related stigma. The chosen theme for this year's 35th anniversary by the World Health Organization (WHO), “World AIDS Day 35: Let Communities Lead,” emphasizes the ongoing efforts to unite people worldwide in combating HIV, raising awareness, and commemorating those lost in this fight.

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Originally established by the WHO in 1988, 'World AIDS Day' emerged as the inaugural international day for global health. It aims to facilitate the exchange of vital information among governments, international bodies, and individuals. The emergence of Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome (AIDS) in 1981, caused by the Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) that attacks the body's immune system, sparked the need for this annual event. In two decades, 33 million people were infected, resulting in 25 million deaths. Consequently, global awareness campaigns focused on educating societies about HIV/AIDS through unified efforts and financial backing from international organizations.

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The Philippines also observes “World AIDS Day,'” advocating for measures to prevent HIV infections. In recent years, the country has gained notoriety for having the fastest-growing HIV epidemic in the Western Pacific region. The first cases of HIV in the Philippines were reported in 1985, originating from Angeles and Olongapo, cities in Central Luzon. Shockingly, from 2010 to 2021, there was a surge in new infections and a rise in AIDS-related deaths across all age groups, totaling to 110,736 HIV cases by January 2023. Factors contributing to this escalating crisis include increased population mobility within and outside the islands, societal discomfort discussing sexual issues, rising instances of sex work, casual sex, unsafe practices, and drug use. Lack of awareness, especially among minors, also contributes, with a decline from 95% to 76% among young Filipinos aged 15-24 who have heard about HIV and AIDS, as per the 2021 Young Adult Fertility and Sexuality Study (YAFSS) by the University of the Philippines Population Institute (UPPI).

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Globally, “World AIDS Day” serves as a platform for information dissemination, with each country organizing its own agenda. In the Philippines, various programs, campaigns, and initiatives address HIV and AIDS concerns. These include client-centered services at clinics offering free HIV/STI tests, consultation, vaccines, management, Pre-exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP), provision of condoms/lubricants, and Antiretroviral treatment (ART). Through advocacy programs and speakers, experiences and information are shared to raise awareness. Notably, initiatives like Project Red Ribbon's Duyan Cradling Children with HIV Program provide care and support. Art exhibitions also contribute to these efforts, and the Philippine International AIDS Candlelight Memorial honors those who lost their lives due to the disease.

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In solidarity, let’s fight against HIV and triumph over AIDS and ignorance.