Health Secretary Ted Herbosa has unveiled an intensified government response to the human immunodeficiency virus, or HIV, amid a concerning rise in new infections nationwide.
“From January to March 2025, we recorded an average of 57 new HIV cases daily,” Herbosa said. “In response, the DoH (Department of Health) has expanded the distribution of free anti-retroviral (ARV) drugs to people living with HIV in line with President Marcos’ directive to simplify access to these services in major hospitals.”
He also announced the rollout of a patient appointment system — implemented last week at San Lazaro Hospital and more recently at Dr. Jose Fabella Memorial Hospital specifically for pregnant women —aimed at improving access to HIV consultations and medications.
He said the system ensures that persons living with HIV can have regular consultations and consistently receive free maintenance ARV drugs.
The DoH also provides counseling to help HIV patients manage their condition and live long, healthy lives, he added.
Free HIV screening and confirmatory testing are available at DoH-run HIV hubs, including San Lazaro.
“HIV is no longer a death sentence,” Herbosa emphasized. “With proper care, it can be managed like hypertension or diabetes. The key is regular consultation and medication, which we are working to make fully accessible.”
Herbosa also highlighted the Philippines’ active role in global health leadership, particularly as the country presides over the World Health Assembly—the top decision-making body of the World Health Organization composed of 194 member states.
“It was a historic opportunity for the Philippines to help shape global health policy, especially for middle and low income countries,” he said. “Diseases know no borders – our participation in global health efforts is essential.”
Together with PhilHealth president and CEO Dr. Erwin Mercado, Herbosa met with the Filipino community in Geneva, Switzerland to discuss expanded healthcare access for overseas Filipino workers.
“Our leadership of the World Health Assembly reflects President Marcos’s commitment to strengthening global partnerships,” Herbosa said.
“The DoH supports this by ensuring our health diplomacy is both strategic and people-centered,” he added.