BUTUAN CITY: The Department of Health-Caraga (DOH-13) recorded 185 new human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) cases, bringing the total number of cases in the region to 1,718 since tracking began in 1995, an official said Monday. DOH-13 health-education program officer Necson Gamotin shared the data during a press conference organized by the Philippine Information Agency.

According to Philippines News Agency, as of June, Agusan del Sur leads the provinces with 293 cases, followed by Surigao del Sur with 225 cases, Surigao del Norte with 136, Agusan del Norte with 122, and Dinagat Islands with 31. Among cities, Butuan recorded the most cases at 442, trailed by Surigao with 229, Bislig with 68, Tandag with 65, Bayugan with 61, and Cabadbaran with 46.

Most cases involve males, comprising 94 percent or 1,622 individuals, while females account for 6 percent or 96 cases. The largest age groups affected are 25 to 34 years with 850 cases and 14 to 24 years with 524 cases. Gamotin highlighted the rise in HIV cases in Ca
raga, which increased steadily over recent years. In 2020, there were 841 cases, which grew to 952 in 2021, 1,193 in 2022, and 1,533 in 2023. Despite this trend, the 185 new cases recorded this year are lower than the 340 in 2023 and 241 in 2022.

To address the issue, the region has nine HIV treatment hubs that also serve as testing centers. Two hubs are in Butuan, three in Agusan del Sur, two in Surigao del Sur, and two in Surigao del Norte. “These facilities are designed to ensure confidentiality,” Gamotin said, noting that fears and stigma often deter individuals from seeking testing. He emphasized that health personnel are trained to safeguard patient identities, as required under Republic Act 11166, or the Philippine HIV and AIDS Policy Act.

The DOH-13 continues to urge residents to undergo testing, emphasizing that early diagnosis is critical for treatment and management. From 1995 to 2024, the region recorded 111 HIV-related deaths. This year, only one death has been reported, compared to eight in 20
23 and four in 2022. “Treatment begins with diagnosis,” Gamotin said, underscoring the importance of raising awareness and addressing the stigma surrounding HIV testing.