“It felt like my world darkened. My first question was, ‘Why me?’ All my dreams vanished. I couldn’t even share it with my friends or colleagues,” said Jomari Gandia, PLHIV.
Twelve years ago, Jomari tested positive for HIV.
Initially, he was only concerned about his health.
But the biggest challenge turned out to be the discrimination he faced from the public.
“Even from family and acquaintances, the fight continues. One day, I grew tired of being afraid, but they never left me,” Jomari added.
Despite the challenges, Jomari remained strong and managed to overcome the stigma.
Through continuous treatment, he became undetectable and is no longer infectious.
His story now serves as an inspiration for hundreds of HIV patients.
“As a PLHIV, standing before you, I am virally undetectable, and you are not alone in this journey,” he stated.
Jomari’s experience mirrors the Department of Health’s (DOH) goal for 95% of PLHIV to achieve the same status through free anti-retroviral therapy (ARV).
According to Dr. Dominic Maddumba, Health Promotion Bureau of the DOH, “If nothing is detected, nothing can be transmitted. Undetectable equals untransmissible.”
However, this can only be achieved if 95% of Filipinos know their HIV status and undergo lifelong treatment.
To achieve this, free screenings are being offered.
“It’s crucial to know one’s HIV status to achieve this U=U,” said Dr. Celia Flor Brillantes, City Health Services Office.
Within six months of continuous treatment, a patient can potentially become undetectable, meaning their viral load is low enough not to transmit the virus.
This is also the theme of this year’s World AIDS Day celebration: “Paint the Town Red! Take the Right Path: My Health, My Right.”
By: Jose Robert Inventor
