From a gradual increase to a full-blown epidemic, HIV/AIDS has become a major concern in the Philippines. The Department of Health (DOH) is calling for a health emergency declaration to tackle the rapidly growing HIV epidemic in the country due to alarming statistics.

Despite the implementation of laws like RA8504 and RA11166 in 1998 and 2018 respectively for HIV/AIDS control, there has been a significant rise in diagnosed cases. This indicates a need for new approaches to address the issue.

The primary problem lies in the failure to analyze why existing policies have not been effective in curbing the epidemic. Drawing from personal experience during the early 1980s AIDS epidemic in New York City, the writer highlights the importance of effective testing and government efforts in controlling the spread of the disease.

Upon returning to the Philippines in 1987, the writer observed the initial discussions on HIV testing, which were treated as routine serologic tests. The rigid training regimen and the requirement for pre- and post-test counseling were seen as stigmatizing and a deterrent for individuals seeking testing.

The process of HIV testing in the Philippines involved trained technologists performing counseling and testing, which posed a conflict of interest and discouraged many from getting tested. The requirement for laboratories to have trained staff limited the availability of testing centers, further complicating the situation.

In contrast, other countries offer anonymous testing without intrusive questioning, which is preferred by many individuals. The writer suggests simplifying the testing process, removing unnecessary requirements, and allowing self-testing to make it more accessible and less stigmatizing.

The writer proposes stopping the training of medical technologists for HIV testing, eliminating pre-test counseling, and allowing self-testing with over-the-counter kits. Deputizing NGOs to conduct free testing for high-risk populations and referring HIV-positive individuals to treatment centers are also recommended.

These suggestions aim to streamline the testing process and make it more accessible to individuals at risk of HIV/AIDS in the Philippines.