DOH to commemorate PHL International AIDS Candlelight Memorial

• Source:http://news.pia.gov.ph/article/view/1351462842633/doh-to-commemorate-phl-international-aids-candlelight-memorial
• Wednesday, May 11, 2016

By Claro A. Lanipa (ALT/CAL/PIA9-Zamboanga del Sur)

PAGADIAN CITY (PIA) --- The Department of Health (DOH) in collaboration with advocacy partners, Project Red Ribbon and Pilipinas Shell will be commemorating the Philippine International AIDS Candlelight Memorial (PIACM) on May 14, 2016 at Taclobo stage, this city.

Dr. Agnes Fernando, head, DOH-9 Provincial Office said this is a global event not only in commemoration of those who have died from the disease, but as a platform for HIV and AIDS awareness as well.

Dr. Fernando said to highlight this year’s event, the Philippine AIDS Hour will be launched where the public is encouraged to light a candle from 6pm-7pm as a symbol of hope in the quest for solutions to the challenges posed by HIV and AIDS to humanity.

The AIDS hour specifically aims to further raise the awareness of the public about the importance of practicing safe sex and knowing their status through HIV testing, Fernando pointed out.

HIV testing can be availed for free at Zamboanga del Sur Medical Center, Dao, Pagadian City,Margosatubig Regional Hospital in Margosatubig town and at the Pagadian City Health Center.

To add more impact to the event, commercial establishments, workplaces and schools are encouraged to raise PUSH (Pilipinas United to Stop HIV & AIDS) banners in the facade of their buildings during the AIDS Candlelight week on May 9-14, 2014 as a sign of support to the advocacy.

The call-to-action message this year is Know Your Status, Get Tested, with “practice safe sex” and “free testing and treatment” as sub messages.