The rise in number of persons living with Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV), who are as young as 15 years old, has alarmed the Bacolod City Health Office.

According to the records of the Center for Health Development of the Department of Health Western Visayas, HIV cases in Bacolod City from January to September 2024 reached 105; 28 of which are ages 15 years old to 24 years old.

Cases involving persons ages 25 years old to 34 years old have reached 54.

Most of the cases contracted the virus via male-to-male mode of transmission.

Death toll reached 18 cases beginning January 2024.

“Usually ang pumupunta dito sa amin nawili sa Facebook. Nagkakilala sa kung anong mga site, tapos nagkita at nag-sex. Nawala na ang tinatawag na purity, chastity,” disclosed Dr. Babylin Drilon, division chief of the Social Hygiene Clinic of Bacolod City Health Office.

Based on the projection of health authorities, cases of persons living with HIV as of September 2024 are estimated to be around 2,000.

“Kailangan talaga[ng] malaman natin kung sino ang HIV positive kasi nagfo-follow naman tayo sa Republic Act 11166 na may confidentiality. Mas mabuting makapaghanap tayo ng maraming cases,” Dr. Drilon added.

Alias “Junior” admitted to have contracted sexually transmitted infection (STI).

“Ni-recommend ng aking bestfriend which nagka-STI rin before,” alias “Junior” said.

A certain “Judy Ann,” heavy with child, has undertaken HIV testing required prior to the delivery of her baby.

“Kung hindi ka naman guilty, wala kang sakit, okay talaga magpa-test,” alias “Judy Ann” said.

As of posting time, peer navigators are rounding up "puroks" (sub-communities) most especially leading to the observance of World AIDS Day on December 1, 2024, to intensify campaign on early detection, safe sex, and the risks of early sexual contact.