AHF urges stigma-free HIV coverage as treatment gaps widen

MANILA — The AIDS Healthcare Foundation (AHF) Philippines has called for more accurate and stigma-free reporting on HIV and AIDS, emphasizing the need for responsible media coverage as the country grapples with persistent gaps in disease surveillance and treatment.

The appeal comes as the Department of Health released its second-quarter 2026 HIV and AIDS Surveillance of the Philippines report, which estimated approximately 288,000 people are living with HIV in the country. The figures underscore challenges in diagnostic services, treatment access, and ongoing monitoring of affected individuals.

AHF Philippines highlighted that media narratives shape public perception and influence the willingness of people living with HIV to seek care and disclose their status. Stigmatizing language in news reporting, the foundation argued, creates barriers to early diagnosis and treatment adherence, ultimately undermining public health efforts.

The organization stressed the importance of balanced, evidence-based journalism that focuses on treatment advances and preventive measures rather than sensationalizing cases. AHF called on media outlets to adopt guidelines that protect the dignity of people living with HIV while accurately reporting on the epidemic's scope and response efforts.

Health experts noted that gaps in diagnosis and treatment remain critical challenges in the Philippine HIV response, requiring coordinated action from government agencies, healthcare providers, and media stakeholders to improve outcomes and reduce transmission.