MANILA, Philippines — The Department of Health (DOH) has reported a dramatic increase in the number of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) cases in the Philippines, with 95% of new infections attributed to sexual encounters between men.

Health Secretary Teodoro Herbosa highlighted the influence of easy access to online pornography and dating apps, as well as the presence of establishments offering sexual services, during a press briefing at Malacañang.

Herbosa articulated that the rising risky behaviors associated with digital platforms are significantly contributing to the health crisis.

He stated, "High-risk behavior is fueled by easy access to online pornography and dating applications where users often engage in unprotected sex.

Furthermore, there are spa establishments masquerading as legitimate businesses that operate as brothels."

According to the DOH, the rise in HIV cases is particularly alarming among the youth, specifically individuals aged 15 to 25. Reports indicate that the number of new cases among this demographic surged by 500% from 2010 to 2023. In total, there are currently around 148,831 documented cases of HIV in the Philippines since the first recorded instance in 1984.

As the situation escalates, with an average of 57 new cases detected daily, the DOH estimates that without intervention, the number of individuals living with HIV in the Philippines could reach 400,000 by 2030. Herbosa has urged for legislative reform to include testing provisions for men who have sex with men (MSM), as current regulations primarily obligate female sex workers to undergo routine testing.

In response to the crisis, Secretary Herbosa confirmed that he has requested President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. to declare a national public health emergency regarding HIV, emphasizing the urgent need for comprehensive national strategies to combat the epidemic.

This proposal is currently under consideration by the Cabinet, amid ongoing discussions about how to best address the rising HIV cases.

The National AIDS Council has underscored the importance of strengthening public health measures and enhancing access to treatment and prevention programs, particularly in urban areas where the majority of cases are concentrated.

In recent findings, the Philippine National AIDS Council noted a systemic gap in reproductive health education, contributing to both the rise in HIV cases and adolescent pregnancies, with 2023 statistics reflecting an increase in births among young teens.

Dr. Joselito Feliciano of the Council stated, 'Unfortunately, the new HIV cases are increasingly affecting younger individuals, facilitated by the search for partners through various online platforms.'

The DOH continues to implement awareness campaigns and has committed to providing free antiretroviral drugs, with plans to amend laws governing access to HIV testing and treatment.

Key initiatives include encouraging the use of protection in sexual encounters and promoting Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP) as a preventive measure against HIV infection.