It was emphasized thatundergoing HIV/AIDS testing is voluntary. Initiatives like this HIV/AIDS testing is a proactive measure to safeguard the health, and prevent the spread of the virus.
"It is crucial to assess our health status regularly, especially within jail settings where people come and go. Conducting HIV screening at least once a year helps us safeguard our health," La Trinidad Municipal Jail acting warden Jail Inspector Norman Palangyos said.
FPOP HIV program coordinator Vic Arthur Masliyan emphasized that everyone has the right to access HIV services pursuant to the HIV/AIDS Policy Act of 2018.
"Specifically, for Persons Deprived of Liberty, their access to healthcare is somewhat challenging compared to those outside. It is also beneficial to collaborate with management to ensure the provision and delivery of services such as HIV screening to them. Some PDLs may not regularly access such services outside, so it's advantageous for us to conduct screenings here inside the facility," Masliyan said.
A lecture on HIV/AIDS was also conducted to raise awareness and promote prevention strategies among the PDLs. The lecture covered various aspects of HIV/AIDS, including transmission modes and prevention methods.
The PDLs expressed their gratitude for the opportunity to prioritize their health.
"May konting knowledge ako pero at least, nadagdagan dahil sa mga naituro po ninyo kanina. Nagpapasalamat rin po kami sa BJMP sa pakiki-coordinate para magpatuloy ang ganitong program para matulungan ninyo kami," a PDL said. (DEG-PIA CAR/Jester Batanes, BSU Intern)
