TEACHCebu HIV Hub Caravan

 

We have reached the culmination of our week-long HIV Hub Caravan in celebration of National Hospital Week 2025.  I am filled with a profound sense of gratitude and  hope.  Over the past few days, we have virtually traveled across Cebu, to bridge the gap between people and the life-changing services available to them.  We've had the opportunity to showcase the vital work being done by our different HIV treatment hubs in Cebu including the following:

•       Cebu Social Hygiene Clinic

•       Visayas Medical Center Balay Malingkawasnon

•       Love Yourself

•       Eversley Childs Sanitarium and General Hospital

•       Mandaue City Social Hygiene Clinic

•       Talisay City Social Hygiene Clinic

•       Minglanilla City Social Hygiene Clinic

•       Naga iShine City Social Hygiene Clinic

•       Vicente Sotto Memorial Medical Center KAAMBAG Clinic

•       AIDvocates

•       Glory Reborn

•       Cebu South Medical Center

•       Cebu Provincial Hospital - Bogo

•       Cebu Provincial Hospital – Balamban

•       Cebu Provincial Hospital – Carcar

•       Danao City Social Hygiene Clinic

We've seen firsthand the dedication and expertise that these hubs offer in providing prevention, testing, treatment, and care services.  I want to extend my heartfelt thanks to everyone who made this caravan a success:

·      To the dedicated staff and volunteers from all the participating HIV treatment hubs.  Your commitment and passion are the driving force behind the care and support that save lives everyday.

·      To the local government units and community partners who welcomed us and helped us reach a wider audience. Your collaboration is vital in creating an environment where people feel safe and supported.

·      And most of all, to all of you – the viewers, the individuals and the families who joined us.  Your willingness to learn, ask questions, and to engage is the most important step in ending the stigma surrounding HIV.

This caravan was more than just an event; it was a crucial step in building a more informed and supportive community. We've hopefully empowered individuals with the knowledge to protect themselves and others from HIV, and we've broken down some of the barriers that prevent people from accessing the care they need.   This caravan has highlighted a critical truth:  we have the tools to manage and prevent HIV.  We have the knowledge, the medication, and the unwavering support of our healthcare community.  Our treatment hubs in Cebu are more than just clinics; they are sanctuaries of hope, offering a range of services from confidential testing and counseling to life-saving anti-retroviral therapy (ART) and holistic care.

However, our work is far from over. Our mission continues.  Stigma and discrimination continue to be major obstacles in the fight against HIV. We must all commit to creating a more inclusive and understanding environment, where everyone feels safe and empowered to seek help. 

As we move forward, let us remember the information and resources shared during this caravan. Let us continue to support our local HIV treatment hubs and advocate for policies that promote access to quality care for all. Let us carry the message of hope and empowerment we’ve shared this week back to our homes, our families and our communities.  Let’s be advocates for ourselves and for others, reminding everyone that:

·      TESTING IS KEY.  Knowing your status is the first step towards a healthy future

·      TREATMENT IS EFFECTIVE.  With consistent care, people living with HIV can live long, healthy and fulfilling lives.

·      STIGMA HAS NO PLACE.  We must continue to create a culture of acceptance and understanding, safe places for our PLHIV clients, enrolled alive on ART.

Let us all work together to ensure that every individual in Cebu has access to the information and services they need.  Let us move forward with compassion, courage and a shared vision of an HIV-free future.  Together, we can make a difference in the lives of those affected by HIV and work towards a future free from AIDS. Thank you for your participation and commitment.