ILIGAN CITY (PIA) — The City Health Office (CHO) has reported that more and more residents seek human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) testing and counseling services.
“We observe there is a spike in the number of recorded cases because of increased testing. This could mean that our advocacy is effective, as more and more people are going to our health facility to avail our counseling and testing services,” said CHO Head Dr. Glenn L. Manarpaac during the 2025 International AIDS Candlelight Memorial.
As HIV causes acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS), Manarpaac noted that early detection supports timely treatment and better health outcomes.
Iligan CHO’s HIV services include testing, counseling, and treatment that are available for free at the Social Hygiene Clinic and partner health centers.
“If anyone feels the need to get tested, they can approach any of our staff at the Social Hygiene Clinic. They can go there and rest assured that the processes and clinical data are handled with utmost confidentiality. Hindi ma-divulge kung sino sila kasi kino-code natin ito,” he said.
The Social Hygiene Clinic is open on weekdays from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., with special sessions arranged as needed. Manarpaac encouraged individuals, especially those at risk, to access these services without hesitation.
Furthermore, he said they are expanding HIV services access. The Del Carmen facility is being renovated and is expected to reopen this year as an accredited treatment center. A new hub is also being planned at Gregorio T. Lluch Memorial Hospital.
The CHO also promotes the “ABC” approach to HIV prevention: Abstinence, Being faithful to one partner, and Condom use. Free condoms, lubricants, testing, and treatment are available through CHO and partner centers.
Manarpaac said testing positive for HIV marks the start of managed treatment and care. He underscored the city’s goal of reducing the impact of HIV and AIDS through accessible services and community support. (LELA/PIA-10/Lanao del Norte)
