PHO, DOH train health workers on HIV counseling and community-based screening

The Provincial Health Office (PHO), in partnership with the Department of Health–Cordillera Administrative Region (DOH–CAR), opened the HIV Counseling and Testing Training with Community-Based Screening (CBS) today, March 10, 2026, to strengthen the capacity of health workers and partner agencies in providing accessible and confidential HIV services in the province.

The four-day activity gathers health personnel and community partners to enhance their knowledge and skills in delivering HIV counseling and testing services, including pre-test and post-test counseling for clients.

Part of the training focuses on community-based screening, which brings HIV services closer to communities, particularly in geographically isolated areas. Through this approach, trained personnel can conduct screening and counseling outside regular health facilities to help address barriers such as distance, stigma, and limited access to services.

According to the PHO, 39 HIV cases have been diagnosed in Apayao, with 34 individuals currently living with HIV and five deaths recorded. Health officials stressed the importance of early detection and treatment, noting that recent data show infections increasingly affecting younger and working-age groups.

Participants are also being oriented on Republic Act 11166, or the Philippine HIV and AIDS Policy Act, which strengthens the country’s response to HIV through prevention, treatment, care, and support services. In line with the law, the province has established a Local AIDS Council (LAC) to coordinate local HIV response efforts.

The training also supports the 95-95-95 global targets, which aim to ensure that 95 percent of people living with HIV know their status, 95 percent of those diagnosed receive treatment, and 95 percent of those on treatment achieve viral suppression.

The activity is expected to help expand HIV awareness and improve access to services in Apayao.