BONTOC, Mountain Province – Candles of hope, remembrance, and commitment were lit at the Multi-Purpose Hall on December 6, 2024, in observance of World AIDS Day.
The candle-lighting activity brought together the participation and support of personnel from various government agencies in Mountain Province who, all together, lighted candles which symbolize hope for patients diagnosed with AIDS/HIV, remembrance for those who have died because of the AIDS/HIV, and the participant’s continuous commitment in supporting and building a more inclusive and accepting environment for AIDS and HIV patients by breaking barriers and the stigma of discrimination and shame.
During the First Monday Program last December 2, 2024, HIV Point Person Norma Kalang-ad said that there are 35 cases of AIDS and HIV in MP. However, Kalang-ad gave an update during the candle-lighting ceremony, announcing that the number has increased to 36 as of December 6, 2024.
With this, Kalang-ad urged all the participants to stay united in campaigning for voluntary counselling and testing which are available in the different Rural Health Units and hospitals, practicing safe sex, and in encouraging everyone to be aware of their HIV/AIDS status.
Here are some of the HIV treatment hub facilities near MP where HIV patients are being referred to: Baguio General Hospital and Medical Center- Balai Treatment Hub; Baguio Health Service Office- Reproductive Health and Wellness Center; St Aloysius Gonzaga HACT Clinic- Notre Dame Chartres Hospital; Benguet General Hospital- Kandili Treatment Hub; Far North Luzon General Hospital and Training Center-Quirino Luna Apayao; and Abong ti Namnama Satellite Clinic in Lapas, Abra.
As for the HIV treatment hub in MP, Kalang-ad informed the participants that such a hub is currently under construction at the Luis Hora Memorial Regional Hospital. By Hail, MP
