The number of confirmed HIV cases in Romblon has risen to 142, according to recent data released by the Department of Health (DOH) MIMAROPA.
Dr. Christy Andaya, head of the Infectious Disease Cluster at DOH MIMAROPA, noted that the increase in cases in Romblon is also being experienced in other provinces within the region. From January 1988 to April 2024, the region has recorded a total of 2,071 HIV cases, with 130 of these detected just this year.
One of the primary reasons for the surge in cases, according to Andaya, is the risky behavior of individuals having multiple partners.
Data from the Center for Regional Epidemiology & Technology Enhancement of DOH MIMAROPA shows that Odiongan, the commercial center of Romblon, has the highest number of HIV cases in the province.
HIV can be transmitted through bodily fluids such as blood, semen, vaginal fluids, and anal fluids.
In Odiongan, the local government distributes free condoms to men to raise awareness about their use and help prevent the spread of the disease.
The government reminds the public to follow the ABCDE guidelines: Abstinence from sex, Be mutually faithful, Correct and consistent use of condoms, Don’t use drugs, and Education and early detection.
Andaya assured that all provinces in MIMAROPA now have treatment hubs for individuals with HIV.
“Each province here in MIMAROPA has a treatment hub [for those with HIV]. These hubs provide services such as testing, counseling, education about HIV, and more,” she stated during the Kapihan sa Bagong Pilipinas on July 2, 2024. She also assured that all tests conducted at treatment hubs are confidential and protected by law.
