MANILA, (PIA) — The City of Valenzuela marked World AIDS Day on Tuesday, December 3, with a series of activities aimed at raising awareness about HIV-AIDS and combating stigma and discrimination.
The event, which featured powerful and captivating performances by Valenzuela City students and Barangay Health Workers (BHW), took place at the ALERT Multi-Purpose Center Hall, organized by the Valenzuela City Social Hygiene Clinic.
Under the theme “Rhythm of Resilience: Transform Lives in Motion,” the city hosted an interpretative dance contest, encouraging participants to promote empathy and social acceptance for people living with HIV (PLHIV).
This event is the first in a series of activities planned for the observance of World AIDS Day.
The event drew participation from several healthcare volunteers, as well as youth performers from various schools in Valenzuela City.
Dr. Marthony Basco, head of the City Health Office, delivered a powerful message emphasizing that contracting AIDS does not diminish a person’s value.
“Ang AIDS po ay hindi tao. [Ito ay] isa lang kondisyon, at kapag [ito ay] isang kondisyon, puwede itong magbago. Kaya hindi tayo nag-di-discriminate ng mga taong may AIDS,” he said.
Dr. Basco also addressed common misconceptions about AIDS and urged the community to eliminate negative social stigma associated with the disease.
The Valenzuela City Social Hygiene Clinic provides comprehensive services for HIV-AIDS, including free testing, STI screenings, counseling, and support groups, all conducted with strict confidentiality.
For more information, residents can contact the Valenzuela City Social Hygiene Clinic at +639194321448. The clinic is located near the Valenzuela City Emergency Hospital on G. Lazaro St., Barangay Dalandanan.
Valenzuela City remains committed to fostering an empathetic and supportive environment for all residents, emphasizing that life continues beyond illness and that healing is attainable for everyone. (JCO/PIA-NCR)
(Valenzuela PIO photos)
