By Lou Ellen Antonio

ILIGAN CITY (PIA)--The City Health Office (CHO) along with other stakeholders here intensified the awareness campaign to end discrimination and stigma against people living with HIV (PLHIV) as they celebrated World AIDS Day on December 1.

City Health Officer Dr. Glenn Manarpaac emphasized the significance of providing equality in services to people regardless of their gender.

"Together let us be aware that HIV is still here. Let us eliminate discrimination and stigma and uphold the rights of each and everyone with acceptability and love,” he said.

According to CHO, 194 patients in Iligan are undergoing treatment.

Meanwhile, the treatment hub of Adventist Medical Center-Iligan continues to provide free medicines from the Department of Health to patients.

"AMCI Haven is the only treatment hub for Iligan City. We cater to people living with HIV. We are focusing on health and psychosocial support intended for them,” said Rona Guillena of the AMCI Treatment Hub.

To cater to other patients with reproductive health diseases, she said Social Hygiene Clinic in CHO was turned into a Reproductive Health and Wellness Center. (LELA/PIA-10/Lanao del Norte)