Victoria Court
Philippines

Corporate Responsibility

World AIDS Day Activists

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PHILIPPINES: AIDS activists dare to go bare

Photo: Mitch Mauricio/IRIN

Alcs Porras, a fashion designer who lost three friends to AIDS-related illnesses in the 1980s

MANILA, 1 December 2009 (PlusNews) - On 1 December, World AIDS Day, activists in the Philippines will be wearing nothing but the red AIDS ribbon in a campaign to raise awareness about the growing threat of HIV.

Some of the activists are HIV-positive, but they all hope the daring photographs will serve as a wake-up call while HIV prevalence in their country is still below one percent. UNAIDS estimated that 8,300 people were living with the virus in 2008, but the population is almost 90 million.

The "Dare to Bare Campaign" will be featured in a leading national daily newspaper and several online magazines until 5 December 2009. Every picture is accompanied by a personal story, because either that individual or someone they care about is living with the virus.

Shame and silence

Carlos Celdran, a performing artist and one of the "models" in the campaign, told IRIN/PlusNews that his youth was marked by living a carefree life in New York. "We may have been a bit promiscuous back then, but we were careful and always used condoms. Now, there is a whole new generation of young people who no longer see HIV/AIDS as a death sentence, and are more reckless."

According to the National AIDS Registry of the Department of Health, HIV cases among young people have been increasing at an unprecedented rate: newly reported cases in the 15-24 age group tripled from 41 in 2007 to 110 in 2008.

Health experts in the Philippines have warned that the low level of testing for HIV and other sexually transmitted infections, combined with limited access to accurate information, could be masking higher HIV figures.

Even worse, the controversial Reproductive Health (RH) Bill, which would standardize access to sexual health services and information, has been languishing in legislative debate for 20 years.

About 80 percent of the population is Roman Catholic, giving the Church a key role in shaping public opinion and influencing government policy. It has sought to block passage of the Bill, saying the legislation would promote abortion and promiscuity. The Church is particularly opposed to a provision promoting condom use and other family-planning methods, describing condoms as "abortifacients".

Condoms have only recently become available in convenience stores, groceries and filling stations. Previously, people would have to buy condoms abroad - an option not readily available because most of the population live below the poverty line.

Photo: Mitch Mauricio/IRIN Activist Veronica took part in the campaign to prove that HIV/AIDS is not a "gay" disease

Condoms may be easier to get but buying them is still stigmatized. "The man in front of me bought five packs of condoms and when he left, the cashier openly made vulgar comments about the man being promiscuous and sex-crazed," said Rain Naldoza, 22, who appears in the campaign.

"The benefits of using condoms are completely overlooked. The worst thing is, it sent the wrong message to others who heard the comments that buying condoms is a bad thing."

Alcs Porras, a fashion designer who lost three friends to AIDS-related illnesses in the 1980s, commented: "There is shame and silence." He has his own unique way of promoting safer sex among the youth.

"Many of my young friends who are starting to experiment [sexually] ask me for advice because they don't know who else to ask. Many are too embarrassed to buy condoms." He prepares "care packages" of condoms, lubricants and other safer sex devices and hands them out.

Support

The organizers of the "Dare to Bare Campaign", with the support of other groups working in sexual health, hope their brave effort will move others to rally for their right to protect themselves and stay free from HIV/AIDS.

The UN Population Fund (UNFPA) and UNAIDS have distributed information brochures and HIV/AIDS pins, and condom manufacturer DKT Philippines gave condoms to all participants at the ceremony launching the campaign.

Victoria Court, a chain of high-end short-stay motels, hosted the photo shoot and now provides free condoms in their rooms, discreetly tucked between the towels and toiletries.

"Our clients go to us to get intimate with their partners," said Ian King, Managing Director of Victoria Court. "We need to be responsible about this aspect of our business. It is everyone's responsibility to be aware and be informed."

Source:http://www.plusnews.org/Report.aspx?ReportId=87266

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For World AIDS Day, awareness advocates wear nothing but red ribbons

By Ana Santos |  Published: November 29, 2009

HARRY Condom user “The right to protect yourself.”

“If you can’t be good, be careful.”

It was simple advice — short and succinct, given by a father to his son, but it was advice that nonetheless made a lasting impression on Harry. He had “the talk” with his father when he was in high school.”He said I should know what’s out there [in terms of health risk and unwanted pregnancies] and protect myself,” he recalls.

Harry’s experience underscores the importance of parents taking an active role in equipping their children with knowledge to make informed choices and responsible decisions.

“From then on, I thought it was no big deal to use a condom. I always thought of it as being the right and responsible thing to do.”, says Harry who isn’t squeamish about using protection.

“Of course, it’s always better to be in a monogamous relationship and be faithful. But the reality is, some people can’t do that.  In that case, you should at least be careful,” says Harry echoing his father’s lesson of simple pragmatism.

WANT TO HELP? SPOT.ph steers you to organizations who are doing their share for AIDS awareness and prevention:

Remedios AIDS Foundation
Provides sexual and reproductive health information, education and communication (IEC) programs.
Address: 1066 Remedios Street, Malate, Manila
Tel. No.: 524-0924/ 524-4831
E-mail: reme1066@pldtdsl.net

Positive Action Foundation Philippines, Inc. (PAFPI)
An organization that is devoted into helping those Person Living With HIV/AIDS (PLWHAs) and their families in coping with their situation involving the HIV/AIDS virus.They have various programs and projects that support the national advocacy, prevention and education of HIV/AIDS, care, support and treatment.
Address: 2613 Dian St., Malate, Manila
Tel. No.: 404-2911
E-mail: positiveactionfoundation@yahoo.com

Pinoy Plus Association
E-mail: pinoy_plus@yahoo.com

Source: http://www.spot.ph/2009/11/29/for-world-aids-day-awareness-advocates-wear-nothing-but-red-ribbons/7/

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