Campaign on HIV testing works in Caraga – DOH
By Mariesh F. Celedeña
BUTUAN CITY (PIA) – Since the first detection of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) in Caraga region, more individuals have responded to the campaign of the Department of Health – Center for Health Development (DOH-CHD) Caraga to have themselves tested for HIV.
DOH-CHD Caraga said in a recent media forum in Butuan City, recalling that it was in 1995 that the first HIV case was recorded in the region. In 2024, the department recorded a total of 366 newly diagnosed cases. As of February this year, a total of 68 newly diagnosed cases were recorded in the region.
In Caraga, Butuan City, as the only highly-urbanized city in the region, recorded the highest number of HIV cases with 486, followed by Surigao City with 256 cases
“This increase can be attributed to the continuous campaign of DOH-CHD Caraga, together with the partner stakeholders. We now have 10 treatment facilities and eight laboratory confirmation testing centers,” said Arlene Serrano, HIV program coordinator of DOH-CHD Caraga.
She underscored that with the treatment facilities and testing centers located in strategic areas of the region, more individuals are breaking free from discrimination and social stigma on HIV.
She also clarified that case recording is based on the area of residency declared by the people living with HIV.
“Even if you take the test in another city or municipality, your case will be recorded according to your residence. All 486 cases are from Butuan City, but not all are treated in Butuan City,” she added.
She emphasized the pivotal role of awareness on HIV as the best solution. “Educating not only the teenagers, but everyone on how to protect themselves against HIV, the programs and services of the government such as free testing and free treatment, including the practice of safe and protected sex.”
DOH-CHD Caraga will further accelerate HIV testing, treatment enrollment, and viral load monitoring in the region as part of their priority interventions to address HIV.
HIV is a virus that attacks the body’s immune system. If untreated, this advances to a chronic condition known as acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS). (MFC, PIA Caraga)
