HIV/AIDS statistics in RP alarming--Villar

Nacionalista Party standard-bearer Manny Villar has expressed concern over the significantly growing number of Filipinos who have contracted HIV/AIDS that have alarmed even international health organizations.

"The statistics are a cause for concern and call for concerted action. Other countries with prevalent HIV/AIDS incidence have been curbing the spread of the disease quite efficiently. But the Philippines seems to be bucking the trend as the number of Filipinos with HIV has been increasing," said Villar.

According to the University of the Philippines College of Medicine, HIV/AIDS situation in the country has been worsening. Based on estimates, between 2007 and 2009, 629 HIV cases were reported. Last year, the Department of Health recorded an average of two HIV/AIDS cases a day. In May 2009 in fact, 85 cases were recorded, the highest in a month so far.

Villar found particularly alarming the report that among those groups who tested positive for HIV/AIDS are overseas Filipino workers (OFWs).

"Kailangan paigtingin pa ang information campaign tungkol sa AIDS lalo na sa ating mga OFWs at mga kabataan dahil ayon na rin sa ulat, pabata na rin nang pabata ang nagkakaroon ng AIDS sa ating bansa," said Villar.

Recently, Villar filed Senate Resolution 1529 urging the Senate Committee on Health and Demography to conduct a study, in aid of legislation, on the increasing incidence of (HIV) infection in the country. Its objective includes launching a massive information campaign, increasing funds for disease research and control, providing assistance to private sector efforts to address the problem and proposing appropriate legislation.