DOH to participate in International AIDS Candlelight Memorial on May 19
The Department of Health (DOH) is set to join other countries in the International AIDS Candlelight Memorial (IACM) on Sunday, May 19.

Under the theme, "Put People First: Kandila ng Pagkalinga, Liwanag ng Pag-Asa (Light of Care, Light of Hope),” the event honors those lost to the human immunodeficiency virus-acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (HIV/AIDS) and celebrates the tireless efforts of healthcare workers and advocates.
"The data we have shows the way for what we do," said DOH Secretary Teodoro Herbosa.
"Increased health literacy, including cultural-appropriate information and safe sex supplies, routine HIV testing at primary care, and early access to antiretrovirals are clear priorities,” he added.
With these, Herbosa underscored that the best remembrance to do for IACM is to gather the light of the collective talents and resources, and to spread evidence-based solutions for HIV.
Along with the Philippine National AIDS Council (PNAC) and the San Lazaro Hospital National Reference Laboratory-Sexually Transmitted Diseases (STDs) Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome (AIDS) Cooperative Central Laboratory (NRL-SACCL), the DOH eyes prioritization on increased access to testing, education, and treatment.