LoveYourSelf pauses some services due to Trump stoppage

Community organization LoveYourSelf Inc. announced on Wednesday that it is temporarily pausing some of its "key innovations," including the distribution of pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) and human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) self-testing kits.

This after United States (US) President Donald Trump ordered to stop the supply of lifesaving drugs in countries supported by the US Agency for International Development (USAID).

LoveYourSelf Inc., however, assured the public that its essential services, including HIV testing, treatment, and TransHealth "remain unaffected," as these services are not reliant on foreign aid.

The volunteer-run organization said the stoppage also impacts many of its staff working on these programs.

"We want to assure our team and community that we are doing everything we can to ensure that our staff are supported during this time," Dr. Ronivin Pagtakhan, founder of LoveYourSelf Inc., said.

"Their dedication to our mission drives us forward, and we remain committed to taking care of them as we navigate these challenges," Pagtakhan added.

The organization also sympathized with global and local organizations that are facing similar setbacks.

"In many countries with high HIV rates, disruptions like these can halt medication procurement and vital services, putting countless lives at risk," Pagtakhan furthered.

LoveYourSelf Inc. called on decision-makers "to revisit and act quickly on this matter."

"To the Philippine government, this is your moment to step up and partner with civil society organizations. By working together, we can scale up programs, foster innovation, and fill the gaps left by international funding uncertainties."

The Philippines is recognized as one of the countries with the fastest-growing HIV epidemics in Asia.

According to UNAIDS data, there are about 190,000 persons living with HIV in the Philippines.

Since 2011, LoveYourSelf Inc. has been offering free sexual and trans health services.