HIV/AIDS sufferers
THE government, through concerned offices and agencies, has been fighting the social stigma that HIV/AIDS still carries in the Philippines.
In fact, a top government official called on the public to end the stigma and discrimination against persons living with human immunodeficiency virus.
Otherwise known as PLHIVs. these people deserve to have access to adequate treatment and support services, according to the government.
The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) is implementing pyschosocial care and support services for the benefit of PLHIVs.
DSWD Secretary Rex Gatchalian said these services are designed for the prevention and management of risks related problems of HIV infection.
Gatchalian is the vice chair of the Philippine National AIDS Council (PNAC), which is the lead agency in providing social protection services to PLHIVs.
During last Friday’s commemoration of “World AIDS Day,” Gatchalian underscored the need to strengthen efforts to help PLHIVs and their families.
“The observance of World AIDS Day mainstreams the plight of PLHIVs and the…need to dismantle the barriers that hamper their access to quality health care and other psychosocial services,” said Gatchalian.
Theme of this year’s celebration was “Let Communities lead – #Sama-sama Tayo sa Laban Kontra HIV Dahil sa Bagrong Pilipinas, Bawat Buhay ay Mahalaga.”
In the view of many quarters, the Philippines has been carrying out effective HIV/AIDS programs and initiatives among marginalized groups.
