DAVAO CITY, Philippines – HIV cases in Davao City continue to rise, where an average of 57 to 58 new infections being reported monthly in 2025, raising concern for education among the young population.
City Health Data showed that there were 691 HIV cases posted in 2025, with 58 cases recorded in December alone. This statistic puts Davao City as the fifth city nationwide with most reported HIV cases.
The youngest patient recorded was 14 years old, as most infections were found among young people within the age 24 to 35 bracket, followed by the 15 to 24 year-olds bracket.
Dr. Jordana P. Ramiterre, head physician of the Republic Health and Wellness (RHWC) , said the rise of cases among minors underscores the urgency of strengthening education and prevention efforts.
She noted that sexual transmission remains the leading cause of infection in the city, particularly among males engaging in sex with other males (MSM), followed by bisexual and heterosexual transmission.
Ramiterre stresses the need for the public to know that HIV testing and services remain accessible and free.
“Since it’s (a) public health (issue), treatment with us is actually free. I’m sure district health centers, for as long as meds are available, it’s also free,” she said, adding that the government procures all antiretroviral drugs to ensure continued access to treatment.
The RHWC also promotes preventive measures such as the use of PrEP (pre-exposure prophylaxis and the “Undetectable = Untransmittable” (U=U) campaign.
However, stigma and discrimination continue to hinder testing and treatment uptake.
“It’s the most stigmatized or discriminated conditions, because it’s a sexual infection,” said Nidgie Tindoc, case manager in the Southern Philippines Medical Center (SPMC).
To address this, the city has intensified outreach programs, including screenings in entertainment establishments and in collaboration with NGOs such as Talikala.
“The only key for this is continued education in all sectors, integrating and implementing prevention education” Ramiterre added.
She also explained that workplaces should be sensitized communities, adding that there is also a need for more educators.
Meanwhile, the city held its International AIDS Candlelight Memorial on May 26 at Rizal Park, which offered free HIV screening from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., followed by the candle-lighting ceremony. (davaotoday.com)
