The Department of Health (DOH) announced that antiretroviral (ARV) medications are free for people living with HIV, including minors, to encourage early diagnosis and treatment.
Health Secretary Teodoro Herbosa stated that minors can access treatment through “proxy consent” from social workers or healthcare providers if they fear disclosing their HIV status to their parents.
This provision aims to address concerns of stigma and rejection, which have led some young people to delay treatment.
Herbosa also warned against purchasing ARVs from unauthorized sources due to the risk of counterfeit drugs and urged teenagers to focus on their studies and delay sexual activity.
The DOH has set up 338 HIV care facilities across the country, offering free HIV screening, counseling, and ARV medications, with coverage also available through PhilHealth’s Outpatient HIV/AIDS Treatment Package.
Source: PhilNews24 | February 23, 2026
