BAGUIO CELEBRATES WORLD AIDS DAY

December 8, 2024 Metro BLISTT

BAGUIO CITY

The City of Baguio, through the City Health Services Office (CHSO) led by Dr. Celia Flor Brillantes, commemorated
World Aids Day with a program on December 4, 2024 at the CHSO grounds. This year’s theme: “Take the Rights Path,” reminds everyone that the world can end AIDS if everyone’s rights are protected. In her welcoming remarks,
Dr. Brillantes expressed her gratitude to the city officials, health workers, community based organizations and their
partners from the Baguio Association of Night Spots for their continued support in the National AIDS, STI Prevention, and Control Program (NASPCP) in the city.

Councilor Isabelo Cosalan represented Mayor Benjamin Magalong in the event. In a message read by Coun. Cosalan, the mayor wanted to convey that HIV and AIDS are not just health challenges, they are social issues that affect
individuals, families, and entire communities. “Here in Baguio, we are proud of the work being done by our Health Services Office and partner organizations, who continue to promote education, testing, and treatment programs to ensure that those affected receive the care and support they need,” Coun. Cosalan said.

Committee on Health and Sanitation Councilor Betty Lourdes Tabanda remarked that many people around the world still face challenges despite the progress made on the treatment, diagnosis, and efforts on battling STI, HIV, and AIDS. She also reminded the night workers to stand up for inequality and fight for their rights. “You have your human rights. You are all human beings. You should be respected and make sure that you assert and protect these rights,” Coun. Tabanda added. Atty. Johnson Lim, the guest speaker of the event, gave a lecture on Republic Act 11166 or the Philippine HIV and AIDS Policy Act.

He also reminded the attendees that each one of them has the right to life, liberty, property, and due process of the law. Department of Health-Cordillera (DOH-CAR) NASPCP Regional Manager Darwin Babon responded to the call of Coun. Tabanda to conduct a Health Summit for the night workers in Baguio to address any of their health concerns. DOH-CAR conducted a fun walk from Casa Vallejo to Lower Session Road on December 8 for the national celebration of World Aids Day. The activity offered free HIV testing and other health services.

MT/Baguio-PIO