This is not like other trainings

 Good morning, everyone, and welcome to the HIV Counseling and Testing Training.

Before we begin, I want to establish one crucial truth: this is not like other trainings. You are not here to simply sit, take notes, and leave with a certificate of attendance. You have to EARN that certificate by passing a rigorous evaluation process. The reason is simple: once you complete this course, you will carry the name and authority of the Department of Health as a certified HIV counselor. That title carries immense weight, responsibility, and trust.

My dad always had a saying: "If you don’t use it, you lose it!" Let me be clear—this training is not free. You may not have paid a registration fee out of your own pockets, but we fully intend to receive a return on our investment. Our expectations of you do not end when this week is over. We expect you to go out into the field and actively test patients—wherever you are stationed, with whoever needs it.

You are going to be our frontliners for HIV case finding. As we roll out differentiated testing modalities across our healthcare system, you will be on the ground executing opt-out HIV screening for inpatients, outpatients, and hospital employees. You will lead index testing, social and sexual network testing, mobile outreach, and even self-testing initiatives.

Our mission goes beyond just administering tests. Our goal is to normalize HIV testing and actively dismantle the stigma and discrimination that continue to harm people living with HIV. I need you to memorize the fundamental HIV 101 knowledge, but more importantly, learn how to deliver it in a way that resonates with your specific audience. Communicate effectively so that people truly accept the messaging behind the ABCDEF of STI and HIV prevention.

Right now, the Philippines has one of the fastest-growing HIV epidemics in the world. To fight back, we must be as opportunistic as the virus itself. HIV does not discriminate—and neither should we.

So for the next few days, I ask you to set aside all your other commitments and be fully present in this moment. Internalize the training, empathize deeply with the people you will serve, and adopt a mindset where nothing shocks you.

This is your golden opportunity to make a tangible contribution to nation-building—to help make Cebu, and the entire Philippines, a safe, compassionate, and humane place for everyone to live in.

Let’s get to work. Welcome, and good luck!