Take away for this write up:
1. IACM – what is it.
2. Valenzuela City Site (implementation Local Government Unit (LGU) partner of PAFPI-EpiC program) celebrates IACM
3. Uniqueness of the Philippines IACM celebration
4. Prominent government and NGO/CSO involved
5. IACM challenges and goals
The International AIDS Candlelight Memorial is a significant event worldwide that honors those lost to AIDS, supports those living with HIV, and raises awareness about HIV/AIDS. In the Philippines, this memorial is marked by various activities and events that reflect the country’s unique cultural and social landscape.
The PAFPI-EpiC program staff, along with employees from the social hygiene clinic and city government office in Valenzuela City, successfully celebrated the Internal AIDS Memorial Candlelight on May 15, 2024. The event was also attended by local organizations, members of the church and law enforcement agency. A holy mass was held by Rev. Fr. Roel Aldwin Val Madrid, Parochial Vicar – National Shrine of Our Lady of Fatima. Among those who were present from the Valenzuela Social Hygiene Clinic was Dr. Marilyn C. Liwanag, Asst. City Health Officer, who gave the opening remarks, Dr. Marthony P. Basco, City Health Officer, whose message inspired the audience in the event, and Dr. Ana Marie Israil, HIV/STI Program Coordinator, who gave the closing remarks.
The AICM in Valenzuela City was a solemn occasion to remember those who fought bravely and lost their lives against HIV/AIDS. The PLHIV community and the entire city community pledged to help stop the spread of HIV, and PAFPI-EpiC program staffs and management will continue to support the LGU programs in HIV prevention and treatment.
The Unique Aspects of the International AIDS Candlelight Memorial Celebration in the Philippines:
1. Candlelight Vigils:
– These vigils are the heart of the memorial, where participants light candles to honor those who have died from AIDS. These events often take place in public spaces such as parks, community centers, and major landmarks.
2. Community Gatherings and Prayers:
– Gatherings may include interfaith prayers and reflections, providing a space for spiritual support and solidarity among participants from diverse religious backgrounds.
3. Educational and Awareness Campaigns:
– Organizations often use this opportunity to conduct educational sessions about HIV prevention, testing, and treatment. This includes distributing informational materials, condoms, and offering free HIV testing services.
4. Speeches and Testimonials:
– Individuals living with HIV, healthcare professionals, and advocates often share their stories and experiences to humanize the epidemic and reduce stigma. These personal testimonials are powerful tools in raising awareness and fostering empathy.
5. Cultural Performances and Art Exhibits:
– Music, dance, and art are integral parts of Filipino culture and are often incorporated into the memorial. Performances and exhibits may depict the struggles and resilience of people living with HIV, helping to emotionally and intellectually engage the community.
6. Social Media Campaigns:
– In the digital age, social media campaigns play a crucial role. Hashtags, online events, and virtual memorials expand the reach of the message, engaging a broader audience beyond those who can attend in person.
7. Collaboration with Government and NGOs:
– The event often sees collaboration between government health departments, non-governmental organizations (NGOs), and community-based organizations. This partnership helps amplify the impact of the memorial and ensures a coordinated approach to HIV/AIDS awareness and prevention.
Prominent Organizations Involved:
– The Philippine National AIDS Council (PNAC): Coordinates national efforts for HIV/AIDS awareness and prevention.
– PINK Society in Valenzuela: Focuses on education and support for those affected by HIV/AIDS.
– Valenzuela City Social Hygiene Clinic: Provides free HIV, STI testing and counseling services and dispense of ARV medicine.
– Positive Action Foundation Philippines Inc. (PAFPI): Provides Care&Support by giving shelter to those affected by HIV-AIDS as well as to their affected families, as well as free HIV screening, counseling, and referrals to partner NGO/CSO for additional needed help by PLHIV. PAFPI is the partner organization of FHI360 for its HIV program in Metro Manila.
– FHI360: is a nonprofit that works in more than 60 countries to advance research, resources and relationships for health and social cohesion.
– PEPFAR-USAID: funding agency for PAFPI-EpiC HIV program.
(Note: The Meeting Targets and Maintaining Epidemic Control (EpiC) project is an eight-year (2019–2027) global initiative, funded by PEPFAR and USAID, that provides strategic technical assistance and direct service delivery to achieve control of the HIV epidemic among key and priority populations and strengthen global health security.)
IACM Challenges and Goals:
– Reducing Stigma: One of the primary goals of the memorial is to reduce the stigma associated with HIV/AIDS in the Philippines, which remains a significant barrier to testing and treatment.
– Increasing Awareness and Education: Ensuring that accurate information about HIV transmission, prevention, and treatment reaches all sectors of society, especially in rural areas where misconceptions may be more prevalent.
– Encouraging Testing and Treatment: Promoting the importance of regular HIV testing and adherence to treatment to improve the quality of life for those living with HIV and reduce the spread of the virus.
The International AIDS Candlelight Memorial in the Philippines is a poignant reminder of the ongoing fight against HIV/AIDS and a testament to the resilience and solidarity of the Filipino community in addressing this global health challenge.
*Kudos to Renz Mark Samson, Psychosocial Support Officer (PAFPI-EpiC Staff of Valenzuela City Site) for the remarkable video and video editing. ^-^