Quezon pruv faces alarming HIV surge, cases hit 1,636 total

By Nimfa L. Estrellado Quezon Provincial Health Office reiterates call for safe practices and free HIV testing amidst rising cases in the pr...

By Nimfa L. Estrellado

Quezon Provincial Health Office reiterates call for safe practices and free HIV testing amidst rising cases in the province. (QPHO)

LUCENA CITY, Quezon – Quezon Province is experiencing an alarming and persistent surge in HIV (Human Immunodeficiency Virus) cases, with the cumulative total reaching 1,636 individuals diagnosed since 1987. A significant 58 new cases were identified in just January and February of this year, according to the latest report from the Department of Health (DOH) Center for Health Development Regional Epidemiology and Surveillance Unit (RESU) 4-A.

The DOH report further details that the demographic most affected by HIV comprises individuals aged 25 to 34, closely followed by the 15 to 24 age group. This trend highlights a significant public health challenge impacting the province's younger population and emphasizes the critical need for targeted public health interventions. Data also shows a higher prevalence of HIV among men compared to women in Quezon Province.



Based on the report from DOH RESU 4A, Lucena City continues to be the primary hotspot for HIV within the province, accounting for a substantial 429 cases, making it the highest concentration of cases by a significant margin. Other municipalities reporting significant numbers include Sariaya (124), Candelaria (108), and Tayabas (107). Further breakdowns show Pagbilao with 76 cases, Tiaong with 63, Atimonan and Lopez each with 59, Gumaca with 55, Calauag with 51, and Lucban with 49 cases, highlighting a widespread presence of the virus across various population centers.

The report identifies the main mode of HIV transmission as sexual contact between men (MSM), which accounts for a large majority of cases, specifically 878. Other recorded transmission routes include male-to-male/female sexual contact (461 cases) and male-to-female sexual contact (260 cases). Seven cases were attributed to mother-to-child transmission, for 30 cases, the mode of transmission remains undetermined, posing a challenge in fully understanding all avenues of viral spread.

In light of these escalating figures, the Quezon Provincial Health Office (PHO) is actively intensifying its public health campaigns. The PHO strongly urges all residents to adopt safer sexual practices and consistently utilize protective measures, such as condoms, to prevent HIV transmission.

The LGBTQIA+ Community in Pagbilao celebrated Pride Month on June 29, 2025, with an event themed "PagbilaoWins Pride: Paglimiin, Paigtingin, Pagbuklurin." This celebration aimed to express unconditional love and promote equality for all. The festivities included a crucial discussion on HIV, featuring representatives from the Quezon PHO-Infectious Disease Unit and DASH Quezon Inc. 

The event also offered free HIV counseling, screening, and condom distribution to all participants. A solemn Candle Light Memorial was held to remember those who have passed away and honor those who continue their brave fight against HIV and AIDS.

Meanwhile PHO, in partnership with all public health offices and district hospitals across the province, continues to provide comprehensive HIV services. They reiterate the widespread availability of free and confidential HIV testing services throughout the province, encouraging anyone who may have engaged in high-risk behaviors to seek testing promptly at their nearest Health Center or District Hospital.

The PHO assures the public that a positive diagnosis should not lead to despair, as various facilities in Quezon offer free treatment and comprehensive medical support for people living with HIV, underscoring their commitment to public health and welfare. A PHO representative stated that they are committed to supporting every step of the journey towards health and well-being.