The Department of Health (DOH) wants human immunedeficiency virus (HIV) a National Public Health Emergency, after the agency records 500% increase.

Health Secretary Teodoro Herbosa said 57 newly diagnosed HIV cases are recorded per day from January to March this year mostly from aged between 15-20.

DOH said with this new highest record, the Philippines is now no.1 in the Western Pacific region in terms of new cases.

This is more than twice the rate in 2014, at 21 cases per day.

DOH also said that the predominant age group infected by HIV shifted from 35-49 years old in 2002 to 2005, to 25-34 years old from 2006 onwards.

The youngest newly diagnosed HIV case was only 12 years old from Palawan, it noted.

The Philippines logged a total of 215,00 individuals living with HIV in 2024.

Based on DOH’s data, sexual contact remains the predominant mode of transmission of HIV in 2025, but has shifted to largely being among males having sex with males (MSM) since 2007.

The DOH encouraged the public to take an HIV test, assuring them that it is free and confidential.

Self-test kits are also available in the country.

The agency also reminded sexually-active individuals to practice safe sex through the combination prevention method, which includes using condoms, lubricants, and taking Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP) before the deed.

Aside from clinics and pharmacies, non-government organizations like Love Yourself Inc. also offer free HIV self-test kits, counselling, and PrEP.

Individuals living with HIV are encouraged to consult medical professionals and take the antiretroviral therapy, which Herbosa said is covered by PhilHealth insurance.

In February this year, the United States has cut off the financial aid provided to the Philippines for combating HIV, acquired immunodeficiency syndrome, malaria and tuberculosis.

DOH assured that it has enough funding to support local programs against HIV and AIDS.