NAGA CITY — Amid the alarming rise in HIV cases nationwide, the Ateneo de Naga University Graduate School launched a webinar titled “Breaking the Silence: Understanding and Dealing with HIV” on July 5, 2025, aiming to promote education, early diagnosis, and stigma reduction surrounding HIV/AIDS in the Philippines.

Call for National Emergency
With the epidemic intensifying among the youth, speakers urged the government to declare a national emergency on HIV, echoing recent calls from the Department of Health and UNAIDS. “HIV is not a death sentence,” Roquid affirmed. “With early detection and proper care, people living with HIV can thrive.”

Held via Google Meet, the virtual forum gathered over a hundred participants, including nursing students, health workers, and community members. Keynote speakers Dwight Rene L. Roquid, EMT, RM, RN and Amy A. Prieto, RN emphasized the importance of updated knowledge, testing access, and preventive strategies to combat what health experts call a “silent epidemic.”

Startling Statistics Spark Concern
According to the latest DOH HIV/AIDS and ART Registry, the country reported 5,101 new HIV cases in Q1 2025—averaging 57 new cases daily. The Bicol Region accounted for over 3,300 active cases, with Camarines Sur comprising 37% and Naga City identifying 62 new cases in just three months. Young adults aged 15–25 were found to be the most affected, marking a 500% increase in recent years.

Key Takeaways:

• HIV is primarily transmitted through unprotected sex and shared needles.
• Fourth-generation testing and antiretroviral therapy (ART) are available and effective.
• Pre-Exposure (PrEP) and Post-Exposure Prophylaxis (PEP) were highlighted as critical preventive measures.
• Stigma remains a major barrier to diagnosis and treatment.

Community Action Matters
The event ended with a rallying message: Get tested. Talk about HIV. Break the stigma. Participants were encouraged to become advocates by promoting safe practices, supporting those with HIV, and challenging misinformation.

Prepared by: 
Ms. Azinneth N. Lobrigo
Master in Nursing