HIV Cases in the Philippines: Stemming the Tide in Cebu

A growing public health concern casts a shadow over Cebu, as a significant increase in Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) cases puts the community on edge.

According to a news article in The Manila Times, the Cebu City Health Department (CCHD) reported 110 new HIV cases in the first quarter of 2025, with 63 of those cases occurring in March alone. (2025) 

This makes the highest HIV cases in the Philippines recorded, making it the greatest in the Western Pacific region in terms of new cases.

Recent data paints a concerning picture, revealing a dramatic increase in new infections, particularly among the youth, underscoring the urgent need to “stem the tide” of this growing epidemic before it overwhelms the region’s healthcare systems and communities.

Approximately 27% of those diagnosed were between the ages of 15 and 24, according to Dr. Kimberly Mae Sanchez, a social hygiene physician at the CCHD. The majority of those diagnosed were between the ages of 15 and 34.

While the national Department of Health (DOH) has already sounded the alarm, advocating for a declaration of a national public health emergency for HIV cases in the Philippines, the situation in Cebu demands immediate and concerted action. 

That being said, what exactly is this virus?

WHAT IS HIV?

HIV, or human immunodeficiency virus, is defined by the World Health Organization (WHO) as a virus that targets the immune system. Acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS) develops during the most advanced stage of infection. (2024)

HIV impairs the immune system by attacking the body’s white blood cells. This increases the risk of contracting infections, certain cancers, and diseases like tuberculosis.

Blood, breast milk, semen, and vaginal secretions are among the bodily fluids through which HIV is transmitted. It is crucial to remember that this virus is not transmitted through kisses, hugs, or sharing food. It can, however, be passed down from the mother to the offspring.

SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS OF HIV

A flu-like illness can strike two to four weeks after the virus enters the body. 

The symptoms of this stage can include fever, headache, muscle aches, rash, mouth and throat sores, enlarged lymph glands (mostly in the neck), diarrhea, coughing, and night sweats. It can last from a few days to several weeks. 

Mild infections or chronic symptoms such as fatigue, weight loss, shingles or herpes zoster, pneumonia, or oral yeast infection or thrush may occur as the virus continues to grow and kill immune cells. 

If you suspect you have been infected with HIV or are at risk of contracting the virus, consult a healthcare professional as soon as possible.

WHERE CAN YOU GET A FREE HIV TEST IN CEBU?

• CURLS – VIBE LGBT Community Center
  

This leading LGBTIQ+ organization in Cebu was established in 2013 and promotes equality and nondiscrimination.

Address: Unit 102-103 G/F Casa Silvina Bldg., corner Garfield and Rallos Streets, Suba, Cebu City

• JEM by LoveYourself

In addition to providing free HIV testing, counseling, and treatment, they also provide free consultations for gender-affirming hormone therapy and free laser hair removal for transgender clients. 

Address: M.L. Quezon, National Highway, Pajo, Lapu-Lapu City, Cebu

Pin Location: Dulcinea Hotel

• KAAGBai PH Inc.

A community-based support group for People Who Inject Drugs (PWID), People Who Use Drugs (PWUD), and People Living With HIV (PLHIV).

Address: Home of Hope of St. Camillus Drop-In Center, Cebu Caritas Building, P. Burgos St., Cebu City

• LoveYourself White House

A community center with a supportive LGBTQIA+ community, free HIV screening and treatment, and trans and mental health services.

Address: 246 Don Gil Garcia St., Capitol Site, Cebu City (former location of Coffee Prince, between Suarez Brothers and Bo’s Coffee Capitol)

• Philchan Cebu

A nonprofit, faith-based organization that actively seeks passionate volunteers to help people living with HIV. 

Address: Mt. Zion Center, Talamban Road, Tigbao, Talamban, Cebu City

The total number of HIV cases in the Philippines is 148,831, dating from 1984 to March 2025. This cumulative figure highlights the critical importance of ongoing awareness, testing, and treatment initiatives.

Public health efforts in Cebu are also taking into account the interconnectedness of HIV and monkeypox, particularly given their shared transmission routes among certain populations and the possibility of more severe outcomes when co-infection occurs.