Cebu Expands HIV Services Amid Persistent Youth Infections in Q2

The Department of Health (DOH) has reported a slight decline in new HIV cases nationwide during the second quarter of 2025, with daily infections dropping from 57 to 55 new cases per day. However, Cebu health officials warn that the crisis remains urgent, especially among the youth.

Governor Pamela Baricuatro reiterated her call for a Public Health Emergency declaration, citing the continued rise in HIV cases among individuals aged 15 to 24, and the need to combat stigma that prevents early testing.

“Testing should be as routine as checking for diabetes or hypertension,” Baricuatro said. “We must bring HIV services into every barangay health station, every outpatient service, every prenatal checkup.”

Cebu Province is equipped with 14 DOH-accredited HIV treatment hubs, offering free antiretroviral medication, counseling, and monitoring for people living with HIV. These facilities also support prevention efforts, including access to Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP), with long-acting versions now available for up to six months.

Despite the slight national dip, the DOH recorded 4,979 new HIV cases from April to June 2025, with 96% transmitted through sexual contact, and a growing number of cases among young males.

“This is not just a health crisis. This is a youth crisis. A future crisis. A Cebu crisis,” Baricuatro emphasized.