Philippines Urged to Declare HIV National Public Health Emergency

The Philippines faces a growing HIV crisis. The Department of Health (DOH) has called on President Bongbong Marcos to declare a national public health emergency in response to a sharp increase in HIV infections. Data from the DOH shows a surge in cases from 21 per day in 2014 to 57 per day between January and March 2025. This increase is particularly concerning among younger age groups. Dr. Rontgene Solante, an infectious disease expert, supports the DOH's recommendation, stating that a public health emergency would allow for the allocation of more resources to combat the virus. "With a public health emergency," Dr. Solante explained, "there are measures we can implement, such as strengthening contact tracing and improving treatment access, especially for younger patients."