The Bacolod City government has introduced a website offering access to health services related to Human Immunodeficiency Virus/Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome (HIV/AIDS).
Called the G-Cares, the city government’s official HIV/AIDS online platform service had a soft launching, along with the school-based intervention for education campaign held at the Bacolod City College (BCC) gymnasium Feb. 9.
Mayor Greg Gasataya said in a statement Feb. 12 that Negros Occidental, including Bacolod City, is among the areas in the country with a high number of HIV cases, prompting efforts to strengthen educational programs and make related health services more accessible to everyone.
“We are launching a program that is easily accessible through your mobile phones. Once fully operational, our online platform will provide Bacolodnons with convenient access to the city’s health services,” he added.
Users can book appointments for HIV testing and consultations, request medical assistance, access free testing referrals, connect to counseling services, and receive reliable HIV-related information with strict confidentiality.
As of late 2025, Bacolod recorded 1,312 HIV cases.
“This placed us 22nd among more than 140 local government units nationwide. Behind these numbers that HIV affects are real people, sons, daughters, mothers, fathers, friends, and loved ones who have been struggling in silence,” Gasataya said.
Alma Gustilo, head of the city’s Persons with Disabilities Affairs Office, said persons living with HIV are protected under the Philippine HIV and AIDS Policy Act and the Magna Carta for Persons with Disability.
“The latter refers particularly in cases where HIV-related conditions result in functional limitations requiring support services,” she added in a Philippine News Agency report.
In the implementation of the HIV/AIDS awareness programs, the city government is also working with public high schools, private schools, and private companies to ensure that accurate information reaches the various sectors.
During the launching at BCC, health officials presented key prevention strategies, and stressed the importance of early testing, access to correct information, stigma reduction, and shared responsibility in curbing the spread of the virus.
Gasataya reassured Bacolodnons living with HIV/AIDS of the city government’s full support. “If you are living with HIV/AIDS, know that you have an entire city that supports you. Let us break the stigma and spread kindness and compassion.” ||
