The World Health Organization (WHO) has reported that the Philippines is facing one of the fastest-growing HIV epidemics in the Western Pacific Region.
The issue was raised during the 76th WHO Regional Committee for the Western Pacific, where health ministers from 38 countries, civil society leaders, and development partners convened to address the rising number of HIV cases.
From 2010 to 2024, the number of new HIV infections in the country increased sixfold, making it one of the most alarming surges in the region.
Health officials emphasized that men who have sex with men remain the most affected group.
WHO Regional Director for the Western Pacific, Dr. Saia Ma’u Piukala, underscored that the fight against HIV is far from over. He called for a more strategic and targeted approach to prevention, testing, and treatment focused on specific outbreaks and affected populations.
He also stressed the need for strong political will and shared responsibility to ensure that interventions reach the right people, in the right places, at the right time.
