TUGUEGARAO CITY – The National Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome (AIDS), Sexually Transmitted Infection (STI) Prevention and Control Program of the Cordillera (NASPCP-Cordillera), in partnership with the Department of Health Apayao (DOH-Apayao), conducted the STI-HIV Project NAMNAMA: Knowledge Exchange Symposium on STI, HIV, and Viral Hepatitis from June 27-28, 2024.
The two-day event aimed to equip healthcare workers with the latest DOH policies and guidelines on HIV, viral hepatitis, and other STIs.
Participants, including those from the DOH Human Resource for Health Apayao (DOH HRH-Apayao), were provided with vital information to understand and implement the goals of Project NAMNAMA (Nurturing Awareness, Mobilizing Networks, and Advocating to Mitigate the Impact of AIDS) within the Cordillera region.
Project NAMNAMA is an initiative addressing the unique challenges of STIs and HIV in the region. Grounded in the principles of prevention, detection, treatment, protection, and sustainability, the project aims to promote awareness, advocate for the rights of affected individuals, and safeguard community well-being through targeted interventions.
NAMNAMA, an Ilokano word meaning “hope,” “desire,” or “wish,” reflects the ultimate goal of the DOH-Cordillera Center for Health Development: to mitigate the impact of HIV-AIDS, reverse epidemic trends, and reduce STI cases through holistic awareness, community mobilization, advocacy for human rights, and strategic partnerships.
The Cordillera region faces distinctive socio-cultural and geographical factors contributing to the prevalence of STIs and HIV. Recognizing the need for localized and culturally sensitive approaches, Project NAMNAMA is designed to address these challenges effectively.
The symposium likewise focused on strengthening STI and HIV testing and referral networks in Apayao.
In her closing remarks, Cheryl Reyes, development management officer, emphasized the importance of applying the knowledge and skills learned by participants in their respective areas. By Michelle Acantilado
