THE Provincial Government of Benguet has taken a significant step forward in combating sexually transmitted infections (STIs), HIV, and AIDS following a policy dissemination forum held at the Provincial Capitol on Friday, August 14.
The gathering focused on the implementation of the newly enacted Provincial Ordinance No. 2026-392, also known as the “Benguet STI, HIV and AIDS Response Ordinance of 2026.”
Authored by Hon. Lady Charmaine S. Molintas-Likigan, Chairperson of the Sangguniang Panlalawigan Committee on Health and Sanitation, the legislation establishes a comprehensive legal framework to enhance prevention efforts, promote voluntary and confidential testing, expand treatment access, and enforce strict protections against HIV-related discrimination.
A notable feature of the ordinance is the official declaration of August 9 as Provincial Indigenous Peoples HIV Awareness Day, aimed at delivering culturally sensitive health education and medical services to Indigenous communities across the province.
Benguet Governor Dr. Melchor D. Diclas stressed that controlling the spread of infections requires strong multi-sectoral partnerships.
Diclas urged local leaders and health advocates to work together to guarantee that accurate information, treatment, and psychosocial support reach all residents.
Supporting this vision, Provincial Health Officer II Dr. Meliarazon F. Dulay noted that the ordinance acts as a vital platform for institutional coordination to improve frontline healthcare delivery.
The forum brought together municipal health officers, local councilors, Sangguniang Kabataan (SK) officials, national agency representatives, and academic institutions.
Key partners—including the Department of Health (DOH-CAR), NCIP-Benguet, and Benguet State University—expressed full solidarity with the initiative.
The event was supported by the AIDS Healthcare Foundation (AHF) Philippines, led by Country Program Manager Dr. Ryan C. Guinaran.
In partnership with FPOP Baguio-Benguet and the BSU College of Nursing, AHF facilitated a succeeding educational seminar and voluntary HIV testing session.
Closing the forum, Committee Vice Chairperson Hon. Romeo K. Salda emphasized the importance of translating the legislation into concrete, long-term community actions.
