President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has directed the Department of Health (DOH) to streamline and expand its HIV-related services following a significant surge in infections, with 57 new cases reported daily from January to March 2025.
Health Secretary Teodoro Herbosa said the president ordered public hospitals to simplify procedures for people living with HIV (PLHIV), ensuring faster access to free antiretroviral (ARV) drugs and consultations.
‘‘We have intensified our rollout of free ARV medication, and patients now receive a three-month supply during each visit,’’ Herbosa said during a Palace briefing Thursday.
To help manage patient flow and improve continuity of care, the DOH has introduced an appointment system in major HIV treatment hubs such as San Lazaro and Fabella hospitals. The agency also announced the availability of a new HIV self-testing kit, recently approved by the Food and Drug Administration, now being sold in local pharmacies. Confirmatory testing, however, remains a requirement at certified facilities.
Herbosa said the Philippine National AIDS Council (PNAC) has formally recommended declaring a national public health emergency on HIV, but Cabinet discussions have been delayed due to scheduling conflicts. ‘‘Our work continues regardless,’’ he said. ‘‘We are implementing the strategies recommended under the national HIV program, but a presidential directive would empower agencies and unlock more resources.’’
The health chief stressed that the fight against HIV especially among the youth will require not only expanded services, but also stronger legislation, sustained funding, and a nationwide information campaign. ‘‘We need to revisit current laws. Right now, mandatory testing is limited to female sex workers, yet most new cases are among men who have sex with men,’’ he said.
Herbosa emphasized that HIV today is a manageable condition, like hypertension or diabetes, provided patients adhere to medication. ‘‘HIV is no longer a death sentence. All it takes is to consult a doctor, get tested, and stay on regular treatment,’’ he added.
Despite medical progress, Herbosa warned that stigma and increased risky behaviors among the youth such as unprotected sex, use of dating apps, and exposure to pornography continue to fuel the rise in cases. ‘‘We’re seeing more anonymous and group sex among young people, often without protection or awareness. That’s driving the surge,’’ he said.
To support broader health access, Herbosa also highlighted the role of the country’s 51 BUCAS (Bagong Urgent Care and Ambulatory Services) centers, which have served over 860,000 patients since launching in March 2024. “BUCAS is part of the DOH’s push to bring Universal Health Care closer to Filipinos, in line with the President’s directive to make health services more equitable and comprehensive,†he said.
Editor’s Note: This is an updated article. Originally posted with the headline: “Marcos orders DOH to expand HIV services amid rising cases”
