Mayor Isko signs HIV-AIDS ordinance to expand testing, treatment
Participants take part in the Manila Summer Pride 2026 march at Remedios Circle, showing support for equality, inclusion, and LGBTQIA+ rights. (Photo courtesy of Manila PIO)
Manila City Mayor Francisco “Isko Moreno” Domagoso has signed City Ordinance No. 9179, reconstituting and strengthening the City of Manila HIV-AIDS Response Council to expand prevention, testing, treatment, and support services for residents, particularly vulnerable sectors.
The ordinance, passed by the 13th City Council of Manila, aims to reinforce a more coordinated, comprehensive, and proactive response to issues related to sexually transmitted infections (STIs), HIV, and AIDS.
Under the measure, the city government will intensify efforts in prevention, testing, treatment, care, and support services, alongside stronger information and education campaigns for “Batang Maynila.”
City officials said the move forms part of Manila’s continuing push to protect the health, dignity, and rights of every resident, particularly those from vulnerable communities and key populations.
The signing came as Manila marked Manila Summer Pride 2026, where various groups, sectors, and city government employees gathered for a vibrant parade celebrating equality, freedom of expression, and respect.
Carrying colorful flags, participants filled the streets to affirm that in Manila, everyone is accepted, regardless of gender identity.
At Remedios Circle, Domagoso, along with his wife Dynee and daughter Frances, personally welcomed members of the LGBTQIA+ community.
“I’m happy for you, you have a place in Manila. Here you can express, here people will respect you, you can excel in your field of undertaking,” the mayor said.