Over a hundred participants gathered at San Lazaro Hospital (SLH) to commemorate the International AIDS Candlelight Memorial (IACM), led by the Philippine National AIDS Council (PNAC) in collaboration with SLH and with support from the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) on 22 May 2025. 

The annual observance paid tribute to those who have lost their lives to HIV and AIDS and served as an avenue for the renewal of commitment and solidarity with individuals and communities affected by the epidemic. Families of people living with HIV (PLHIVs) who passed away from complications of AIDS were also present to share the journey of their loved ones. 

In the Philippines, HIV infections are rising at an alarming rate, with 5,101 new cases reported from January to March 2025. A number of these cases involve individuals under 15 years old.

As a global campaign, the IACM plays a vital role in reinforcing the commitment to eliminate the stigma and discrimination associated with HIV and AIDS while also highlighting the ongoing challenges and the need for sustained prevention, treatment, and support efforts. 

"Be informed to be protected from HIV,” Dr. Joselito Feliciano, Executive Director of PNAC, reminded. “Remember, HIV is not a death sentence. Sa labang ito, lahat tayo sama-sama.” 

To promote equity in healthcare access, UNDP’s partnership with PNAC and the Department of Health (DOH) focuses on empowering communities, amplifying the voices of young people, and supporting local governments in developing sustainable, rights-based solutions. 

In his message, UNDP Resident Representative Dr. Selva Ramachandran reaffirmed the organization’s commitment to ensuring that no one is left behind in the HIV and AIDS response. 

“As we remember those we’ve lost, we are reminded that our fight goes beyond HIV and AIDS — it is about achieving the highest standard of health for all. We must honor their memory by reinforcing our efforts and delivering a sustainable HIV response,” Ramachandran said. 

One of UNDP’s key commitments is to strengthen local and youth-led health responses by building the leadership and technical capacities of the Sangguniang Kabataan (SK) in cities and municipalities across the country through the Local Youth Leaders Responding to the HIV Epidemic Program. 

The program brings together local government units (LGUs), non-governmental organizations (NGOs), private partners, faith-based institutions, and community members to build an inclusive and coordinated HIV and health response rooted in the realities and needs of the people it serves. #