Three regions in Mindanao were among the 10 areas in the Philippines with the highest number of Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) cases from January to March 2025, according to the Department of Health’s Epidemiology Bureau. Region 11 ranked 4th with 306 cases, followed by Regions 10 and 12 at 8th with 178 cases each. Region 9 was 11th with 141 cases, while Caraga and the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) ranked 15th and 16th with 105 and 46 cases, respectively. The data showed a 21% increase in Region 11 compared to the previous quarter, with other Mindanao regions also recording rises. Nationally, 5,101 new cases were reported in the first quarter, bringing the total since 1984 to 148,831. The National Capital Region led with 1,251 cases, followed by Region 4A (905) and Region 3 (554). In Mindanao, 21,521 cases have been recorded since 1984, with Region 11 accounting for 8,350 and BARMM the lowest at 573. The age group 25-34 had the highest number of cases at 2,491 (47%), followed by 15-24 with 1,686 (33%). Sexual contact remained the primary mode of transmission, accounting for 96% of new cases. HIV attacks the immune system and, without treatment, can lead to AIDS. While there is no cure, proper medical care can control the virus, allowing those with HIV to live healthy lives and protect their partners. (H. Marcos C. Mordeno / MindaNews)
