Village Connect
Thousands of Filipinos living with HIV (PLHIV) are expected to benefit from the arrival of much-needed antiretroviral (ARV) medicines, following an announcement by non-government organization LoveYourself Inc. that new stocks have reached the country, helping secure uninterrupted access to life-saving treatment.
In a statement posted on its social media platforms, LoveYourself reassured its clients that treatment services would continue without disruption. The organization shared that while waiting for the arrival of the new shipment, previously procured medicines had been carefully managed to ensure that no patient experienced an interruption in therapy.
The organization described the latest delivery as an important milestone but emphasized that long-term improvements in the country’s HIV commodity procurement and distribution system remain essential. It expressed hope that the replenishment of supplies would pave the way for a more stable and efficient supply chain capable of preventing future shortages.
LoveYourself noted that treatment hubs serving the largest number of patients should be prioritized to ensure timely access to medications. The organization alone currently provides treatment services to nearly 15,000 individuals living with HIV, highlighting the growing demand for consistent and reliable medical supplies.
Beyond maintaining treatment, the advocacy group stressed that the country’s response to HIV must also focus on prevention. It called for stronger government investments in programs that expand access to pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP), HIV testing, HIV self-testing, and other evidence-based interventions that can help reduce new HIV infections.
The organization also acknowledged the efforts of the national government in responding to concerns over the shortage of HIV commodities. LoveYourself thanked President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. for acting on its appeals regarding the issue and recognized Department of Health Secretary Dr. Jose S. “Brix” Pujalte Jr. for moving quickly to address the situation during the early days of his leadership.
According to the group, the prompt response from government leaders has provided renewed confidence within the HIV community and demonstrated the importance of acting swiftly to protect access to essential healthcare services.
Looking ahead, LoveYourself expressed optimism about working closely with the Department of Health under its new leadership. It said that while significant challenges remain in addressing the country’s HIV epidemic, stronger collaboration among government agencies, civil society organizations, healthcare providers, and affected communities can help improve treatment access, strengthen prevention efforts, and build a more responsive healthcare system for Filipinos living with HIV.
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