The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) Field Office Caraga joins the rest of the nation in commemorating the International AIDS Candlelight Memorial (IACM) on May 15, 2022 at the SM Mall, Butuan City.

DSWD was represented by Regional Director Ramel F. Jamen, together with PLHIV Focal Person Iona Cielo Azarcon and attendees from different partner-agencies including Department of Health (DOH) Regional Director Dr. Cesar C. Cassion, City Councilor, Hon. Cherry Mae G. Busa – Committee on Health, TB-HIV Program Coordinator of the Butuan City Health Office Maria Anna S. Valdehueza, RN, together with Dr. Teresita Helen Maquiling, and Dr. Christine Mandin, among others.

This year’s theme, “Keeping the Light, honoring our rights, radiating pride,” aims to show continuous support and dedication to the families who lost their loved ones because of HIV/AIDS.

IACM is conducted every third Sunday of May every year. This serves as a community mobilization campaign to raise social consciousness about HIV. Further, the memorial supports global solidarity – to break the stigma of discrimination and give hope to the new generations.

DSWD FO Caraga extends its gratitude to Mr. Clint Villanueva, BMC -HACT Coordinator and PLHIV Counselors, Anthony Torralba and Kenjie Macasero, who shared their time and effort and made the said event a successful one.

Moreover, DSWD will continue to support activities such as these and provide best efforts to the PLHIV/AIDS sector. Thus, encouraging everyone to further contribute in the prevention and treatment advocacy in order to save more lives.#