Idiniin ni ANAKALUSUGAN Partylist Rep. Ray Reyes na kailangan tugunan ang pagtaas ng mga kaso ng human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) epidemic sa bansa, lalo na sa mga kabataan. Ayon sa bagong datos, 86 porsyento ng bagong naitalang kaso ng HIV ay galing sa mga kabataan.

“We cannot continue to ignore the reality that children are at risk of contracting HIV. This is why I strongly advocate for the inclusion of comprehensive age-specific sexuality education in the primary school curricula, in communities, and other media platforms. We need to educate our youth on the importance of HIV prevention, safe sex practices, and the need for regular HIV testing,” pahayag niya.

Isinulong rin ni Reyes na kinakailangan rin na magkaroon ng mga kampanya laban sa stigma at diskriminasyon tungkol sa HIV. 

“People living with HIV should be treated with respect and dignity, and they should not face discrimination or be ostracized from their communities. It is crucial to address the root causes of HIV stigma and discrimination, and create a safe and supportive environment for those living with HIV,” aniya.

“Addressing the HIV epidemic in the Philippines requires a comprehensive and coordinated approach that involves education, prevention, and treatment,” dagdag ng mambabatas.

Aniya, dapat siguraduhin na may sapat na access sa treatment at suporta para sa mga indibidwal na may HIV tulad ng abot-kayang HIV testing, treatment, counseling, at pagbibigay ng kamalayan sa mga benepisyo ng antiretroviral therapy at iba pang intervention na maaaring makatulong sa mga indibidwal na may HIV.