WHEN people are complacent, more cases of sexually transmitted diseases (STIs), HIV and Acute immune-deficiency syndrome (AIDS) may likely to inflict more victims in the province.
Provincial Board Member Dr. Elpidio Bonita bared that “As of September 2024, there have been a total of 749 reported HIV infections in Bohol since 1984.” This is almost 20 preys every year since then.
He said that there are “notable 98 new cases recorded in just the first three quarters of 2024.” “The data reveals that the majority of new cases are among males, with the highest incidence occurring within the 25-34 age group, followed closely by those in the 15-24 age group.”
This prompted him to propose a Provincial Ordinance, “Strengthening The Provincial Local Aids Council, Providing For A Comprehensive STI, HIV, and AIDS Prevention And Control Program As Well As Support Services To Persons Living With Such Diseases And Appropriating Funds For Its Implementation” This proposal was approved by the Sangguniang Panlalawigan on April 8 regular session.
“This is in response to the alarming increase in HIV cases within the province. Immediate and enhanced action is required to prevent further escalation of the crisis,” he said.
Just recently, news reports said that Tagbilaran City tops in the number of these cases followed by Panglao and Guindulman.
Salient features of the proposed ordinance include: (a) Creation of the Bohol Province STI, HIV, and AIDS Council (BPSAC) tasked with overseeing and coordinating STI, HIV, and AIDS initiatives in Bohol; (b) The Provincial Government of Bohol will take proactive steps to create, promote, and implement various preventive measures aimed at halting the spread of STIs and HIV, particularly targeting key populations and vulnerable communities.
Also, (c) A comprehensive IEC campaign will be launched to increase public awareness and access to medically safe, legally affordable, and high-quality treatment and care services for STI, HIV, and AIDS. This initiative aims to educate the public and reduce the stigma associated with these conditions; (d) The ordinance will also include provisions to safeguard the well-being of STI, HIV, and AIDS service providers, including health workers, social workers, case managers, and peer educators. Policies will be introduced to prevent and address mental health issues, stress, and burnout resulting from the emotional and psychological demands of their work
The Provincial Government of Bohol has already enacted Ordinance No. 2007-007, creating the Provincial HIV/AIDS Multisectoral Council. This is in response to the alarming increase in HIV cases within the province. Immediate and enhanced action is required to prevent further escalation of the crisis, Bonita said.
Bonita, vice-chair of the heath committee, rendered the said committee report signed by BM Dr. Romulo G. Cepedoza, Chairperson; BM Pacifico Nicanor S. Besas, Jr, former Vice Chairperson of the Committee on Health and Public Sanitation; and Hon. Dionisio Joseph V. Balite, Member. (rvo)
