HIV cases surge in Davao Region: Communities unite in candlelight memorials to combat stigma

DAVAO CITY (May 23)— The Davao Region is witnessing a significant surge in HIV cases, prompting local communities to hold candlelight memorials to honor those lost to AIDS and to intensify awareness efforts.

As of March 2025, the Davao Region has reported 8,350 HIV cases since 1984, the highest in Mindanao and accounting for 6% of the national total. In the first quarter of 2025 alone, the region recorded 306 new cases, marking a 21% increase from the previous quarter’s 253 cases.

Davao City leads with 4,855 cases, followed by Davao del Norte (1,025), Davao del Sur (443), Davao de Oro (369), Davao Oriental (246), and Davao Occidental (128). The majority of cases are among males aged 25–34, with sexual contact, particularly male-to-male sexual contact, being the primary mode of transmission.

In response to the escalating numbers, Digos City held the 2025 International AIDS Candlelight Memorial on May 21 at the Digos City Gymnasium. City Health Officer Dr. Milagros Sunga emphasized the importance of awareness and compassion in combating HIV/AIDS. As of January 2025, Digos City had recorded 261 cases, ranking third in Region XI.

The event featured a presentation of HIV statistics by Nurse Marie Jane Dofiles and a message from Atty. Johari Baña, who called for unity in ending stigma and promoting compassion. “We honor lives lost and push for a community grounded in empathy and action,” he said. The ceremony concluded with a symbolic candle-lighting and the singing of the community song, promoting remembrance, unity, and hope.

Similarly, on May 18, Cotabato Province joined the global observance of the 2025 International AIDS Candlelight Memorial, with events held at the Cotabato Regional Medical Center. Healthcare workers, community leaders, and advocates gathered to light candles in remembrance and solidarity, emphasizing the importance of awareness, compassion, and action in the fight against HIV/AIDS.

Efforts are ongoing to combat stigma and encourage testing, with local health units providing free antiretroviral therapy and support services. However, challenges remain in reaching younger populations and ensuring consistent treatment adherence.

The International AIDS Candlelight Memorial, observed annually on the third Sunday of May, serves as a platform to honor those who have died, support those living with HIV, and mobilize communities to end stigma and discrimination. This year’s theme, “We Remember. We Rise. We Lead.”, underscores the collective effort to address the HIV/AIDS epidemic.