CALOOCAN City Mayor Dale Gonzalo “Along” Malapitan led the launching of a “10 Minutes Awra,” a free human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) testing and counseling program for those who contracted the infection.

The program was launched in partnership with Caloocan Social Hygience Clinic, Pilipinas Shell Foundation, Pilipinas Shell, United States Agency for International Development, PEPFAR, FHI-360, EpiC Project, TLF Share and Department of Health-Metro Manila Center for Health Development.

City Health Department (CHD) Officer-in-charge Dra. Evelyn Cuevas said the testing is accessible, fast and non-invasive.

“Marami na po tayong mga testing centers sa buong NCR. Ito pong programa ay inilunsad natin sa Caloocan para sa ating mga kababayan. Mabilis at non-invasive po ang proseso,” Dra. Cuevas said.

She emphasized that the program likewise aims to raise awareness on the symptoms, stages, progression, and possible treatment aside from the free testing.

According to the Mayor, the local government intends to inform and guide its citizens on the facilities and programs aligned with HIV prevention and counseling for those who contracted the infection as well as those in contact with the patients.

“Ito po ay bahagi ng ating pagnanais na matugunan ang mga pangangailangang medikal ng ating mga kababayan at magabayan sila hinggil sa sakit na HIV,” Mayor Along said.

AUTHOR PROFILE

Edd Reyes