Group threatens to sue DOH over move for mandatory HIV testing

A network of groups working to stop the spread of human immunodeficiency virus that causes acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS), on Wednesday threatened to sue the Department of Health for its move to impose mandatory HIV testing.

In a report on GMA News' "24 Oras" the Network to Stop Aids Philippines (NSAP) said mandatory HIV testing could lead to discrimination against those who may be found infected with the dreaded virus.

Moreover, the NSAP said mandatory testing might force infected people to hide their condition.

"Naranasan kong (ako'y) pandirihan, sinipa sa isang sulok ang aking damit, itinapon sa basura... Isinigaw nung personnel (sa aking ward), 'Eto yung may AIDS'. So anong mararamdaman ng taong may HIV kung lahat ay makakaranas nito," Ellen, an advocate for the prevention of HIV, was quoted as saying in a report on GMA News' "Balitanghali."

In the same report, Amara Bondad, executive director for the Action for Health Initiative, said the NSAP understands DOH's concerns, but "mandatory testing is not the way go."

Also, she said the DOH should refocus its efforts on making treatment more accessible, and to make sure supplies would be sufficient.

The report also said the NSAP will call for the resignation of Secretary Enrique Ona if the DOH campaign pushes through.

From 2007 to 2011, the DOH has recorded 10,242 new cases, with 1,878 recorded in July 2012. HIV cases increased by 820 percent in 2010 (1,591) compared to data in 2001 (173).



— Rie Takumi /LBG, GMA News