Health officials in Palawan have confirmed that a 13-year-old has tested positive for Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV), making them the youngest recorded case in the province.
According to reports from the City Health Office (CHO) and Amos Tara Community Center, the teenager contracted the virus through sexual transmission. Officials also noted a rising number of HIV cases among minors in the province.
CHO Program Coordinator Regina Villapa revealed that 17 cases of HIV have been recorded among children aged 14 and below, including a baby who acquired the virus from their mother. The data further shows that 391 cases involve individuals aged 15 to 24, while 593 cases fall within the 25 to 34 age group.
Puerto Princesa has the highest number of HIV cases in the MIMAROPA region, accounting for 709 of the total recorded infections.
Health authorities continue to urge the public to undergo HIV testing, particularly those experiencing symptoms of sexually transmitted diseases (STDs). The RedTop Center at Ospital ng Palawan remains the province’s sole treatment hub, currently serving 1,210 patients.
Despite free testing availability, many Filipinos remain hesitant to get tested due to fear and lack of awareness, officials said.
