PRESIDENT Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has directed the Department of Health (DOH) to expedite the delivery of medical assistance to Filipinos living with HIV, following a reported 500 percent increase in infections among young people.
Health Secretary Teodoro Herbosa announced the President’s order at a Palace press conference on Thursday, citing alarming statistics. From January to March 2025, an average of 57 new HIV cases were recorded daily, prompting the DOH to request a national public health emergency declaration.
The DOH has already initiated efforts to address the crisis by intensifying the distribution of free anti-retroviral (ARV) drugs.
President Marcos’ directive focuses on streamlining the process, ensuring quicker access to medication for those who need it. “President Marcos has ordered that the delivery of this service be facilitated through faster processing in major hospitals visited by people living with HIV,” Herbosa explained.
To improve access and efficiency, the DOH implemented a new patient appointment system. This system was launched on Wednesday at San Lazaro Hospital and last week at the Dr. Jose Fabella Memorial Hospital, specifically targeting pregnant women.
The goal is to simplify the process of scheduling consultations and medication distribution, ensuring timely access to essential HIV treatment. The government’s swift response underscores the seriousness of the situation and its commitment to providing support and care for those affected by the rising HIV infection rates.
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