The Meeting Targets and Maintaining Epidemic Control (EpiC) project, a worldwide initiative funded by PEPFAR and USAID and led by FHI 360, is urging greater awareness about HIV prevention and the accessibility of preventative measures.
“The Philippines is currently facing the fastest-growing HIV epidemic in the Western Pacific, with new cases rapidly increasing among young people,” stated Teresita Bagasao, EpiC Philippines Project Director. “There must be a stronger push from both public and private sectors to combat stigma and raise awareness about HIV, available services, and safer sex practices.”
HIV, or human immunodeficiency virus, is transmitted through body fluids such as semen, vaginal fluid, blood, and breast milk. Recent data from the Philippines reveals that 96% of newly reported cases were contracted through sexual exposure. The virus weakens the immune system by damaging its cells, making it more difficult to fight off other illnesses or infections. If not properly treated, HIV can progress to AIDS.
Thankfully, advancements in medicine and technology have made HIV prevention more accessible. Oral-based pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP), taken daily or around the time of planned sexual activity, can reduce the risk of HIV transmission through sex by up to 99%.
“Over the years, we have witnessed the effectiveness of using condoms and lubricants correctly to prevent HIV transmission. The introduction of PrEP as an additional option offers more choices for individuals’ personal protection,” said Bagasao.
Bagasao refers to this approach as combination prevention. This strategy provides a range of options while recognizing that HIV prevention is a personal responsibility. Although PrEP is a significant advancement in HIV prevention, the current challenge is to adequately educate the public about it and ensure that PrEP and other prevention methods are accessible to those who need them.
EpiC Philippines’ campaign, “Free to Be U,” aims to raise awareness about accessible HIV programs and services, promoting free HIV prevention, testing, and treatment through QuickRes.org. QuickRes is a free online appointment booking system that ensures quick, safe, and confidential access to HIV services, empowering everyone, regardless of their HIV status, to freely be themselves.
“While HIV remains an ongoing epidemic in the Philippines that needs to be addressed, it is important to recognize that HIV is now both preventable and manageable through available services,” Bagasao added. “Understanding this can encourage more people to know their HIV status and, if necessary, receive preventive services that will enable them to live happy, healthy, and free lives.”
Take a proactive step toward HIV prevention by booking your free PrEP appointment on QuickRes.org. For more information on HIV prevention campaigns and events, follow “Free to Be U!” on Facebook.
