Gaane leads fight against HIV & AIDS

CITY Councilor Paolo Nicolo Gaane, chair of the City Councilor committee on health, nutrition and health insurance, presided over the meeting of the City AIDS Council to discuss community health programs to combat the rising cases of HIV and AIDS.

The council discussed its preparations for the upcoming international AIDS Candlelight Memorial, scheduled on May 17, 2026.

Councilor Gaane emphasized the significance of the annual memorial in honoring those lost to AIDS and to promote awareness about the ongoing epidemic.

“This yearly event remembers people who passed away due to HIV and AIDS and continues to promote awareness, care, and support for prevention efforts,” he said.

The City AIDS Council likewise discussed various programs strengthening the city’s response to HIV and AIDS in 2026.

These plans include increased access to testing services, educational outreach efforts, and partnerships with local organizations to provide resources for at-risk populations.

Councilor Gaane reiterated the necessity of a comprehensive approach to address not only medical needs but also the social stigma associated with the disease.

“We must ensure that our initiatives are inclusive, accessible, and effective,” he said. (JBD/SP)