QUEZON City Mayor Maria Josefina “Joy” Belmonte signed the Implementing Rules and Regulations (IRR) of the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) ordinance passed by the city council. This significant step was taken in line with the observance of World AIDS Day this month.
Belmonte emphasized the importance of other local government units prioritizing AIDS-related services and programs. She stressed the need for the involvement of vulnerable and affected communities. The signing of the IRR demonstrates Quezon City’s commitment to ending AIDS by 2030. By institutionalizing policies and implementing actionable measures, the city is taking concrete steps towards this goal.
The HIV ordinance is one of the city government’s many initiatives aimed at combating AIDS. Its key provisions include the establishment of the Quezon City AIDS Council, the formulation of an action plan, the creation of a technical working group to monitor and ensure the plan’s implementation and funding, and the strengthening of the service delivery network for People Living with HIV (PLHIV) and their families.
Councilor Bernard Herrera, chairman of the Committee on Health and Sanitation, emphasized the urgency of strengthening actions to end AIDS as the year 2030 approaches. He stated, “There is no other day or year but now to sign the Implementing Rules and Regulations of the HIV ordinance. This is to ensure that there will be enough care and support, rights-based services, enough capacity for our service providers, and most importantly, enough investment to implement and sustain the initiatives so we can end AIDS in 2030.”
Dr. Anthony Vergara, the city’s Health Department Chief Health Operations Officer, highlighted the local government’s commitment to not only providing health services but also addressing the human rights aspect of HIV and AIDS. This comprehensive approach ensures that the city’s efforts are holistic and encompass the various dimensions of the issue.
The city officials also recognize the crucial role of education and the youth sectors in the fight against AIDS. Mayor Belmonte disclosed that the city government has collaborated with schools and villages to develop an HIV manual specifically designed for high school students. This initiative aims to raise awareness, educate the youth about the risks and prevention of HIV, and empower them to make informed decisions.
By signing the IRR for the HIV ordinance, Quezon City is taking a significant step forward in its commitment to combat AIDS and provide support to PLHIV and their families. The city’s comprehensive approach, involving the establishment of the AIDS Council, formulation of an action plan, and collaboration with educational institutions, demonstrates its dedication to ending AIDS by 2030. Through these efforts, Quezon City is setting an example for other local government units to prioritize AIDS-related services and programs, ultimately contributing to the global goal of eradicating AIDS.
Source: The Manila Times
