Six new afflictions in Baguio: AIDS down worldwide but cases rising in Phl

BAGUIO CITY – AIDS cases are decreasing worldwide but “alarmingly rising” in the country.
Dr. Rowena Galpo, office in charge of the city health department bared this saying this was based on World Health Organization data.

For Baguio alone, she added, there were six cases for this year and residents should be responsible and make measures not to get afflicted.

On a positive note however, Baguio was recognized as an “emerging champ,” in the fight against AIDS, as awarded by the Local Government Unit Academy and the United Nations Development Program and given a plaque and P50,000.

The cash award shall be used for anti-AIDS programs.

Health authorities, barangay officials and entertainers clad in pale yellow t-shirts filled the Baguio Convention Center last Dec. 2, to commemorate World AIDS day with the theme “Getting to ‘Zero.’”

On its 6th year, participants held a convention with the theme was “Getting to zero: Zero new infection, zero discrimination and zero AIDS.”

A beauty contest was held with program where City Administrator Carlos Canilao stood in for Mayor Mauricio Domogan.

In his speech, Canilao,a lawyer, pointed out factors which may contribute to the increase of AIDS in the country.

Among others, anti-AIDS crusaders present were Councilor PhillianWeygan-Allan, AIDS watch council member Dr. Charles Cheng, Dr. Luisa Paran of the Department of Health and Dr. Celia Brillantes.