LUNA, Apayao – The Provincial Health Office- Apayao in partnership with the Municipal Health Office and Rural Health Unit celebrated the World Aids Day 2024 this December 11,2024 with Project Namanama.
Held at the Dr. Efren U. De San Jose Memorial Sports Center Poblacion East, Flora, Apayao, World Aids Day celebration in the province was done with a candle light memorial participated in by individuals from various walks of life – including pregnant, LGBTQ, municipal health officer, teachers, Provincial Health Office and Provincial Department of Health Office.
This year’s celebration in the province emphasized on the theme “Take the Rights Path, My Health, My Right cum Project Namnama: Social Behavior Change.”
The activity aims to remember the many lives lost to AIDS and to honor those who have dedicated their lives to helping people living with and affected by HIV.
In the Philippines, where HIV prevalence is rapidly increasing, especially among key populations such as men having sex with men (MSM) and people who inject drugs (PWID), it is essential to engage in activities that promote awareness, prevention, and support for those affected by HIV/AIDS, according to the health offices.
Besides AIDS awareness, during the said celebration, pregnant women were also lectured on prenatal and postnatal care, immunization, importance of breastfeeding, cancer awareness prevention and sanitation and family planning.
Furthermore, participants received essential kits, umbrellas, mugs, and buntis kits for the pregnant women.
As part of the activity, Project Namnama Rampa World Aids Day 2024 was also included in the program to share their advocacy in the prevention of HIV/AIDS. By Michelle Acantilado
