THE Department of Health-Davao Region (DOH-Davao) reported a total of 177 cases of Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) in the region from January to February 2025. Of that number, four have already died.
Dr. Abdullah Dumama Jr., DOH undersecretary and concurrent Department of Health-Davao regional director, said that since 1993 up to the present, there have been around 8,222 cases of HIV in the region, and they have already recorded around 400 deaths due to HIV.
Dumama added that the top mode of transmission for HIV is still men having sex with men, and that those commonly affected by the virus are usually between the ages of 25 and 35.
“This is through sexual intercourse, kailangan pa rin natin gumamit ng condom. Kung pwede may lubricant at tsaka may prep tayong available, pre-exposure prophylaxis (This is transmitted through sexual intercourse, so we really need to use condoms preferably with lubricant, and we also have PrEP available, which is pre-exposure prophylaxis),” he said in a media interview on Friday, May 23, 2025.
DOH-Davao said that they are providing free antiretroviral drugs to people living with HIV/Aids. The agency added that they have an adequate supply of medicines, support groups that can assist individuals living with HIV, and free testing services, as well as access to pre-exposure prophylaxis.
The agency also said that about P4.5 million was allocated for HIV/Aids-related training, counseling, and logistics in 2025.
Dumama said that this year’s budget is higher compared to last year’s due to the increasing number of people living with HIV/Aids.
In the region, there are around five testing centers: Southern Philippines Medical Center (SPMC), Davao Regional Medical Center (DRMC) in Tagum, Reproductive Health and Wellness Center (RHWC), LoveYourself by Jefrreyi, and Davao Doctors Hospital.
On the same day, volunteers, civil society members, and government officials gathered at Rizal Park, Davao City, to light candles in a solemn ceremony to raise awareness about HIV/Aids.
Dumama said that through the candle-lighting ceremony, they are honoring the lives of individuals who died because of HIV/Aids.
Meanwhile, Davao City Mayor Sebastian “Baste” Duterte, in a message, said that the city government remains steadfast in its advocacy for the prevention, treatment, care, and support of people living with HIV.
“It is imperative that we continue working hand in hand to combat and prevent its upsurge,” he said.
Duterte added that everyone should take proactive steps to eliminate stigma, raise awareness, and foster a society rooted in compassion, knowledge, and empowerment.
Free HIV/Aids testing is available at the venue for Dabawenyos who wish to know their status, along with free contraceptives for those who need them. This year’s theme is “We Remember. We Rise. We Lead.” RGP