The Department of Health-Negros Island Region, together with SM City Bacolod, provincial and city health offices, and other healthcare partners, hosted the observance of World AIDS Day Dec. 1 at the North Block of the mall.
DOH-NIR assistant regional director Adrian Hort Ramos emphasized that the day serves as “a celebration of raised awareness,” noting the reduced stigma surrounding HIV testing and the vital support of barangay health workers.
He added that HIV is no longer the fatal diagnosis it once was, thanks to free access to testing and treatments and the availability of counseling services.
Representing Bacolod Mayor Greg Gasataya, executive assistant Johnathan Diaz shared the city’s ongoing initiatives, including an HIV center, continuous training and support for healthcare workers, increased access to medicines and treatment, and expanded education efforts for youth and professionals.
Free HIV testing and counseling were offered to mallgoers throughout the program, its press release said Dec. 3, while a forum/seminar was held for better understanding of HIV and AIDS.
SM City Bacolod also reaffirmed its commitment to community health through partnerships, including the DOH Wellness Clinic located at the mall’s Government Service Express Center. ||
