The Department of Health (DOH), Metro Manila Center for Health Development (MMCHD), Project Red Ribbon, EpiC Philippines, Pilipinas Shell Foundation, Inc., together with the National Parks and Development Center and the City of Manila, hosted this year’s World AIDS Day with the localized theme, “Empowering Communities to Lead in the HIV and AIDS Response,” underscoring the pivotal role of communities in driving impactful change and progress within the realm of HIV advocacy.
A notable addition to this year’s activities is the inaugural “1st Metro Manila AIDS Walk: A Walk to End AIDS by 2030”.
This momentous event aims to mobilize diverse communities, rallying them to embrace the challenge and renew their dedication to the health sector’s HIV program. It is a united step towards eradicating AIDS by the year 2030.
“Every December 1 we celebrate World AIDS Day, and the Philippines observes World AIDS Day by commemorating and highlighting solidarity in the fight against HIV/AIDS.”
“Every December 1 we celebrate World AIDS Day, and the Philippines observes World AIDS Day by commemorating and highlighting solidarity in the fight against HIV/AIDS,” Health Secretary Ted Herbosa said.
The AIDS Walk kicked off at the Quirino Grandstand, Rizal Park Luneta, in the City of Manila.
The 2.1-kilometer route, which took 27 minutes by foot to complete, started along Roxas Boulevard, leading to Rajah Sulayman Park and back to the Grandstand, culminating in stage activities and engagements.
The finish line also included a program that welcomed participants with different booth activities and free HIV testing.
Participants include national and local government agencies, health institutions, private sector entities, non-government organizations, key affected communities, and students from public schools in Metro Manila who actively participated and underscored the importance of youth involvement in advocacy.
The event aims to break the stigma and discrimination prevalent in the general population.
It also seeks to address key populations such as the Young Key Population, Men who have Sex with Men (MSM), Transgender Women (TGWs), PLHIV, affected families, women, children, and youth.
“This year’s observance seeks to fortify not just the commitment of PLHIV but also emphasizes the involvement of diverse communities advocating for HIV awareness and support.”
“As the nation rallies together on December 2nd, we reaffirm our commitment to drive awareness, support, and action in the fight against HIV/AIDS. Under the global theme “Let Communities Lead,” this year’s observance seeks to fortify not just the commitment of PLHIV but also emphasizes the involvement of diverse communities advocating for HIV awareness and support,” Herbosa stressed.
