CamSur joins observance of World Aids Day

By Analiza S. Macatangay

NAGA CITY, Dec 4 (PIA) -- “Getting to Zero: Zero New HIV Infections. Zero Discrimination. Zero AIDS Related Deaths.” This was the working maxim that the Family Planning Organization of the Philippines’ (FPOP) has adopted as they joined the entire nation in the commemoration of World Aids Day on Saturday, December 1.

The activity also endeavors to raise the awareness of the populace, particularly vulnerable sectors to be particularly vigilant on the rising case of HIV in the province.

Camarines Sur FPOP manager Dave Isidore Plopinio, RN, MAN said that they are enjoining the participation of everyone, particularly the youth for a unified advocacy campaign against Human Immunodeficiency HIV infection that causes Acquired Immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS).

“We want to promote responsible sexual behavior and raise the level of understanding of the members of our community. FPOP advocates and joins the Department of Health’s call for the practice of “ABCDE” to ensure that we will not hear additional cases of fatalities due to HIV-AIDS,” Plopinio added.

ABCDE stands for Abstinence, Being mutually faithful, Condom Use, Drug prevention which usually entails needle use and Education about HIV/ AIDS.

Part of the highlights of the FPOP’s activities include radio tour, advocacy posters exhibit, distribution of HIYAS ng IMMUN komiks, HIV monologues, and candle-lighting ceremony to offer prayers for those people affected and infected with HIV/ AIDS.

In a related story, Camarines Sur through the Provincial Health Office (PHO) conducted a two-day workshop-training for stakeholders who will create the local AIDS Councils to deter the proliferation of HIV.

According to Dr. Wilfredo T. Baniqued, Camarines Sur Provincial Health Officer, their coordination with the Philippine National AIDS Council (PNAC) has ushered in the assembly of more than 40 local AIDS Council members in the province.

The campaign is pursuant to Republic Act 8504 or an act promulgating policies and prescribing measures for the prevention and Control of HIV/AIDS in the Philippines. (LSM-PIA5, Camarines Sur)