The Department of Health (DOH) recognized the growing challenges associated with the availability and accessibility of antiretroviral drugs also known as ARVs in the country's efforts to combat the spread of HIV/AIDS.

"With more people testing positive, there is competition for these drugs,” said Health Secretary Teodoro Herbosa during the 1st Philippine National AIDS Council (PNAC) HIV Summit held in Pasay City on Sept. 8.

Herbosa raised the various issues as part of the broader discussions on the country's efforts to combat the spread of HIV/AIDS.

He stated that an increasing number of individuals testing positive for HIV has led to greater demand for these essential medications.

Additionally, distribution issues have emerged, and the DOH needs to improve the distribution with some regional hubs experiencing shortages.

“We need to improve the distribution because I discovered some hubs running out of stock, which led to reports of a shortage. In reality, the drugs are available only in certain main hubs," Herbosa noted.

He emphasized that antiretroviral drugs cannot be purchased over the counter and are exclusively supplied by the government, which necessitates careful coordination and distribution.

To address these challenges, Herbosa underscored the urgent need to ensure a sufficient supply of antiretroviral drugs.

Many organizations, including international partners like the Global Fund, are willing to contribute to this project, he said.

Herbosa noted that the challenges in ensuring the availability of antiretroviral drugs underscore the need for coordinated efforts to address the HIV/AIDS crisis in the Philippines comprehensively.

Access to treatment and education are essential components of this multifaceted approach in the battle against the disease, he added.

Despite the challenges, Herbosa assured that various international partners are willing to help address the concerns. (Zekinah Elize Espina)