Rahndal Rico and Joana Viray (University of the Philippines – Baguio Interns)
The Department of Health – Cordillera has launched its first HIV self-test kit as part of its strengthened campaign against HIV, aiming to make testing more accessible and reduce stigma around the virus.
For members of the LGBTQ+ community like Jandrogen, a drag artist, discrimination remains a painful reality. “It’s very sad because we don’t have ill intentions. We just want to make a living,” Jandrogen shared. He recalled traumatic experiences such as being held up and rushed to the ER, saying, “I don’t think it’s safe in Baguio to be open about your gender identity, especially in public.”
Aside from discrimination based on gender identity, the LGBTQ+ community continues to face misconceptions linking them solely to HIV.
“HIV and other sexually transmitted diseases are not exclusive to the LGBTQIA+ community,” said community organizer Herson Arcega. “It just so happens that, based on data, more members are affected.”
According to DOH-CAR, during the first quarter of 2025, 29% of new HIV cases were among those aged 15 to 24, while 48% were aged 25 to 34.
An overwhelming 93% of recorded cases involved male patients.
With the rising number of cases, more people are coming forward to get tested. “People started letting go of their hesitation when the 500% increase in HIV cases made the news,” said Chester Policarpio, a volunteer at Balay Marvi. “We were surprised by the surge, our weekly average used to be 30 clients, now it reaches 70 or 80.”
On June 28, DOH launched “Project Namnama,” aiming to make Cordillera HIV-free.
The project includes the rollout of HIV self-test kits and pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP), which helps prevent infection before exposure.
The self-test kits are now available for individuals aged 15 and above without the need for parental consent, in line with Republic Act 11166 or the Philippine HIV and AIDS Policy Act.
Even minors below 15 who are at risk may access the kits without parental approval.
“It’s very important to understand that with self-testing, you are not alone,” said Darwin Babon, regional manager of the National AIDS STI Prevention and Control Program. “Just because it’s called self-testing doesn’t mean health workers will no longer care about you.” He emphasized the importance of proper counseling, especially for reactive results. “If the test comes out reactive, the counseling process must be solid so the person understands that they don’t have to hide.”
Meanwhile, local groups Akbayan and AKMA UP are pushing for the passage of the Right to Care ordinance in Baguio City, which aims to support LGBTQ+ couples in their medical needs.
This ordinance has already been implemented in Quezon City.
“The SOGIE equality bill is still pending, and its progress is painfully slow,” said activist Raffa Olalia. “The Right to Care card is a progressive step towards a more inclusive and accessible healthcare system. Everyone deserves the right to express their love, this should not be denied by the Constitution.”
Currently, there are eight HIV care facilities across the Cordillera region, including: Far North Luzon General Hospital and Training Center, Baguio General Hospital and Medical Center, Baguio Health Services Office – RHWC, Benguet General Hospital, Kalinga Provincial Hospital, La Paz Primary Care Facility, and Notre Dame De Chartres Hospital.
Advocates from the LGBTQ+ community and their allies continue to call for stronger protections, equal rights, and accessible healthcare for all.
