International AIDS Candlelight Memorial 2017 and Official Launch of Talavera’s HOPE
The International AIDS Candlelight Memorial is considered as one of the world’s oldest and largest grassroots mobilization campaigns for HIV awareness in the world. It demonstrates the need for visibility, leadership, and commitment of communities and individuals to take action and achieve a better future for people living with HIV. This year, the theme was “Ending AIDS Together” which calls everyone to work in solidarity to break down the barriers of stigma and discrimination and to give hope to new generations.
Last May 16, 2017, the HIV/AIDS Core Team of Dr. PJGMRMC Talavera Extension Hospital, headed by their HACT Chairman, Dr. Catherine R. Salazar, initiated the Regional Commemoration of IACM along with the celebration of the official launch and blessing of Dr. PJGMRMC-TEH’s satellite treatment hub, Talavera’s HOPE (Hub Offering PLHIV’s Empowerment) held at the hospital grounds.
The event started at around 7 o’clock in the morning with a motorcade. A short program that emphasized the importance of the candlelight memorial and how it demonstrates the need for visibility and commitment of communities and individuals to take action against HIV took place subsequently. Dra. Salazar then narrated the journey of Talavera’s HOPE, how it was planned, prepared and pursued persistently. Highlight of the program was a testimony given by a Person Living with HIV, Mr. Sherwin Baniqued who bravely shared his story that left the crowd informed and empowered to join the fight against HIV. He is also the founder and chairman of the Juan Positive Movement.
Dr. Edwin Santiago, DMO IV, led the Ribbon Cutting Ceremony and blessing of the satellite treatment hub. Lighting of candles and releasing of balloons took place followed led by Hon. Rommel C. Padilla, a Senior Board Member from the 1st District of Nueva Ecija.
There were game booths inspired by the ABCDE’s of HIV prevention set up to creatively enlighten the crowd. Counseling booth was also present where some of them proceeded before they were tested. To complete the festival theme of the event, food booths and photo booth were arranged at the hospital grounds too.
They say, “You only live once, but if you do it right, then once is enough.” This does not mean that you should go drink, smoke, and try anything and everything without thinking. It is to go out and do something with your life that matters. You do not have to be positive to join this battle. “Ending AIDS Together” is truly an opportunity for this generation, we should not miss it.