CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY – The Department of Health (DOH) is intensifying its efforts to close the gap in human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) testing and treatment in the Northern Mindanao Region

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In a forum on Friday, August 15, 2025, nurse June Erika Obsioma, regional coordinator of the DOH National AIDS/STI Prevention and Control Program, said testing the population is essential to meet the national target of 95 percent.

“For now, we are at 20 percent of this target, and we need to close that gap by encouraging more tests and treatment for people living with HIV,” she said.

The region recorded 178 new HIV cases from January to March. Since 1991, the total number of cases has reached 4,007.

Civil society organizations in the city have called for a Local HIV and AIDS (acquired immunodeficiency syndrome) Council to be institutionalized.

Robbie Pamisa, convenor of the Kagay-anon Plus, said the proposed ordinance is pending at the city council for another round of reading.

Once passed, the council would provide additional support for treatment and educational drives, covering the provisions of Republic Act 11166, or the Philippine HIV and AIDS Policy Act.

The forum was organized by the Joint United Nations Programme on HIV/AIDS and Initiatives for Dialogue and Empowerment through Alternative Legal Services, and supported by the Australian government. (Nef Luczon/PNA)