The Caloocan city government has intensified its public health initiatives by offering free Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) testing and counseling for residents.

Under the expanded program, HIV testing and counseling are available at the city’s two Social Hygiene Clinics, located at Caloocan City Hall–South and Brixton Health Center, as well as in all local public health centers across the city.

The following are the clinic schedules:

* Caloocan Social Hygiene clinic (Upper ground floor Caloocan City Hall - South) - Monday to Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., appointments and walk-ins.

* Caloocan Social Hygiene clinic North (Brixton Health Center, Barangay 175) - Monday to Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., appointments and walk-ins.

* Caloocan City health centers: by appointment only.

Mayor Dale Gonzalo “Along” Malapitan said the initiative underscores the city’s commitment to addressing HIV as a continuing public health concern, emphasizing that early detection and preventive care play a crucial role in preventing the progression of HIV to acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS).

“Noon, hindi biro ang magkaroon ng HIV dahil sa kakulangan ng impormasyon at medisina na makakapigil sa paglala nito, ngunit ngayon hindi na taning sa buhay ang pagkakaroon ng HIV(In the past, having HIV was no joke due to the lack of information and medicine that could prevent its progression, but now having HIV is no longer a life sentence),” Malapitan said.

He emphasized that providing accurate information and services closer to communities is crucial to controlling the disease.

“Napakahalaga na mailapit natin sa mga mamamayan ang mga kaalaman tungkol sa HIV at AIDS upang sa una pa lamang, maagapan na ito at hindi na lumala pa(It is very important that we bring knowledge about HIV and AIDS closer to the people so that it can be addressed early and not worsen),” the mayor added.

The local government also reiterated its firm stance against discrimination, assuring residents that there is no tolerance for stigma toward people living with HIV in Caloocan.

City officials emphasized that all patient records and information of those who avail of the free services are kept strictly confidential.

The expanded daily testing and counseling program forms part of Caloocan’s broader efforts to promote preventive healthcare, encourage responsible health-seeking behavior, and ensure inclusive, non-discriminatory medical services for all constituents.