Beyond diagnosis: A community blueprint for HIV recovery
By Caren Grace R. Cabanayan-Carbonell | December 31, 2025
“I [have been] sexually active since I was 16, but I was careful, constantly using protection and [undergoing] regular screening, until a night or two of unprotected sex,” Gav recalled of his life before his diagnosis.
In 2022, his weight dropped drastically to 30 kilograms, significantly lighter than his usual build. He knew something was wrong but remained in denial. Days later, with his mother by his side, he took the test and tested reactive for human immunodeficiency virus (HIV).
“I remember how my mother and father cried, asking what they had done wrong in raising me,” he said.
Rejection by family, friends, or community filled his mind, along with anger and anxiety.
However, his parents instantly became his support system. They stood by him as he sought treatment. In a government health facility in La Union, he began free antiretroviral therapy (ART).
Gav realized that living with HIV is not a death sentence and that treatment is now widely available. He was also introduced to local support groups for people living with HIV (PLHIV), where he could share his feelings.
After three years living with HIV, Gav continues to work toward his dreams. He sees the challenge as a turning point, not a collapse. Earlier this year, he graduated from college with flying colors.
“I now feel and live normally. I’m not proud of acquiring HIV, but I’m glad I could move forward and navigate my life toward my dreams,” Gav added.
Medical Officer IV Rheuel Bobis of the Department of Health (DOH) Ilocos Center for Health Development noted that HIV screening, treatment, and laboratory tests are free, covered by PhilHealth.
“Live with hope; we have advanced technology. PLHIV needs to religiously take anti-retroviral drugs, which eventually help make the virus [undetectable],” Bobis said.
The health department also emphasized that social stigma can deter screening and treatment. Beyond medication, PLHIV need understanding families and a community that offers kindness instead of judgment. (CCMT/CGRCC, PIA Region 1)
Source: Philippine Information Agency
https://pia.gov.ph/news/beyond-diagnosis-a-community-blueprint-for-hiv-recovery/
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