Davao City’s RHWC Records 117 HIV Cases in May 2025

AN OFFICIAL from the Reproductive Health and Wellness Center (RHWC) reported 117 cases of Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) in Davao City as of May 2025 — a number that closely mirrors last year’s figures.

Karla Mae Sepulveda-Edjic, a nurse at the RHWC, however, clarified that the Department of Health (DOH) data only showed 55 confirmed HIV cases in Davao City’s treatment hubs as of January 2025.

Edjic explained the difference: the DOH data reflects only confirmed cases among Davao City residents, while RHWC’s records include all individuals who accessed their services, including those from outside the city.

When asked for a breakdown of age, gender, or transmission method, she declined to disclose the information, citing confidentiality.

Dr. Jordana Ramiterre, RHWC head, said the center offers HIV and STI testing, education, and prevention services. It is now an official treatment hub where confirmed HIV patients begin lifetime care, receive antiretroviral medications, and undergo routine blood monitoring.

Ramiterre also highlighted the availability of free pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) for high-risk individuals. 

The RHWC tests about 400 to 500 people monthly, but she noted that only about 1,000 individuals have accessed PrEP. Despite an adequate supply, she expressed concern that stigma continues to discourage people from seeking help.

“For now kasi parang hindi pa maraming uma-access, we are still promoting it marami tayong supply. Right now, ang data namin sa RHW nasa 1,000 pa lang ang nag access nito (For now, not many are accessing it. We are still promoting it. We have plenty of supply, but only around 1,000 people have used it so far),” she said.  

To combat stigma and increase awareness, RHWC is ramping up its information campaigns, especially targeting key populations at risk.

Currently, three treatment facilities in Davao City provide care for people living with HIV/Aids: the RHWC, the Southern Philippines Medical Center, and Davao Doctors Hospital, which partners with DOH-Davao for private care. Outside the city, the Davao Regional Medical Center caters to patients in Davao del Norte. 

As part of its advocacy efforts, the Davao City Government will hold the Aids Candlelight Memorial at 5 p.m. on May 23, 2025, at Rizal Park. With the theme “Rise Above the Stigma, Lead the Way,” the event will feature a candle-lighting ceremony, a short program, and free HIV testing led by RHWC staff and civil society volunteers. RGP