FHI Focus on Philippines

Just over 1,500 new cases of HIV/AIDS, most involving sexual transmission, have been reported since January 1984. Surveillance data indicates that prevalence rates are low even among the most vulnerable groups. Awareness of ways to prevent HIV transmission remains high, but has not been translated to behavior change. Less than half of the at-risk population groups report consistent condom usage. Injecting drug use among some deep sea fishermen and freelance sex workers in General Santos City was unexpectedly high.