DOH thanks Duterte for signing HIV, AIDS policy law

MANILA, Philippines — Department of Health (DOH) acknowledged President Rodrigo Duterte for signing the HIV and AIDS Policy Act of 2018, saying the law will support Filipinos suffering from the disease.

“Ngayon ay mabibigyan na natin ng tamang suporta ang mga Pilipinong may HIV-AIDS. Kaya naman lubos ang aming pasasalamat kay Presidente Duterte sa pagbibigay niya ng prayoridad at aksyon laban sa HIV-AIDS,” Health Secretary Francisco Duque said in a statement on Thursday.

(Now, we can give proper support to Filipinos who have HIV-AIDS. That is why we are thanking President Duterte for giving priority and acting against HIV-AIDS.)

Duque noted that DOH would develop an Implementing Rules and Regulations (IRR) to guide the public in complying with the law.

READ: Duterte signs HIV and AIDS Policy Act

“Our next step is to be able to properly execute the law by developing an Implementing Rules and Regulations to guide executive officials in implementing the law, as well as the public in how to comply with the law,” Duque said.

Duque added that the law will provide comprehensive education and prevention programs for those suffering from HIV.

Under the law, Duque also said minors aged 15 years may get tested for HIV.

In September 2018, DOH recorded 954 cases of HIV in the Philippines, of which 24 deaths were reported. /je