DOH urges national emergency status for HIV amid surge in youth cases

MANILA (June 6) — The Department of Health (DOH) is calling for HIV to be declared a National Public Health Emergency, citing a 500% increase in cases among Filipinos aged 15 to 25.

“We need a national emergency so the whole of society and government can unite to lower new HIV cases,” said Health Secretary Teodoro Herbosa.

From January to March 2025, the DOH recorded an average of 57 new HIV cases daily—more than double the 2014 rate of 21 per day—making the Philippines the fastest-growing in the Western Pacific.

The main age group affected has shifted from 35–49 years old (2002–2005) to 25–34 years old (2006–present). The youngest case this year was a 12-year-old from Palawan.

Sexual contact remains the primary transmission route, now largely involving men who have sex with men (MSM) since 2007.

The DOH encourages free and confidential HIV testing, including self-test kits. It also promotes combination prevention—condoms, lubricants, and Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP).

Free kits, counseling, and PrEP are also available through groups like Love Yourself Inc. Those diagnosed are urged to seek treatment; PhilHealth covers antiretroviral therapy.

Despite the U.S. cutting aid for HIV and other diseases in February, the DOH says it has sufficient local funding for its HIV response.