Gaane leads City AIDS Council meeting on HIV/AIDS ordinance

COUNCILOR Maria Lourdes S. Gaane, chair of the City Council committee on health, nutrition, and health insurance, presided the monthly City AIDS Council meeting last March 28, 2025, at the City Council conference room to finalize the draft of the HIV/AIDS City Ordinance in compliance with Republic Act No. 11166, also known as the "Philippine HIV and AIDS Policy Act."

As the vice chair of the CDO AIDS Council, Gaane has gathered key stakeholders, including representatives from the City Health Office, City Social Welfare and Development Office, Department of Health Regional Office X, Department of Education, Commission on Higher Education, and various advocacy groups.

Their collaboration is crucial in ensuring a comprehensive and inclusive ordinance addressing HIV/AIDS prevention, treatment, and support in Cagayan de Oro.

RA 11166, enacted on December 20, 2018, strengthens the country’s response to HIV/AIDS through a human rights-based approach, ensuring non-discrimination, confidentiality, and access to free treatment.

The law also mandates education campaigns and stakeholder involvement to curb the spread of HIV/AIDS. Its Implementing Rules and Regulations (IRR) provide guidelines for government agencies, private institutions, and local councils to align their policies with national efforts. (JAOclarit/SP/Photo grabbed from Councilor Gaane's FB page)