A coalition of lesbian, gay, bi-sexual and transgender (LGBT) organizations in Davao is stepping up its efforts to help address the growing number of Human Immunodeficiency Virus – Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome (HIV/AIDS) cases in the city through the creation of a facility for people afflicted with HIV.
Oscar Obenza Jr., chairperson of LGBT Davao told Davao reporters on Monday that the creation of the community center for the PLHIV started last year, with funding from the Department of Health (DOH) and the Global Fund.
Obenza said the community center located at Loyola Street, Obrero Davao City aims to encourage other LGBT with high-risk sexual behaviors to come over and be tested, so that HIV can be detected at an early stage and corresponding treatment can be offered to those infected.
“The community center is an initial on-site screening test that indicates possible positive status of HIV/AIDS,” said Obenza.
He added that the testing center will serve as their comfort zones where it is safe from the discrimination of other people.
According to Obenza, the treatment hub accommodates already a total of 4,000 clients as of November this year and around 3,000 clients last year.
“The center’s success in encouraging people to be tested has drawn others from outside Davao City to seek their assistance and other services as well,” he said.
Obenza said that the community center has trained personnel who conduct blood test for screening tests if the person is “reactive” or “non-reactive”.
Obenza, meanwhile said that the DOH 11, City Government of Davao, RHWC, CSSDO and ALAGAD Mindanao Inc., have been very supportive in implementing programs for the LGBT community which include free trainings and symposiums on HIV/AIDS concerns.
He added LGBT Davao will continue to spearhead programs and activities in its fight against the HIV/AIDS and to provide basic health assistance in the city.
