Bacolod launches G-Cares platform for HIV services

By Glazyl M. Jopson

Although Bacolod City ranked 22nd among more than 140 local government units nationwide for recorded HIV cases, the city government has introduced a digital platform aimed at making HIV services more accessible, discreet and user-friendly for Bacolodnons.

City officials said the initiative aims to strengthen Bacolod’s HIV response by improving access to information, testing, consultations and support while ensuring privacy and confidentiality for people seeking help.

Mayor Greg Gasataya led the soft launch of the platform, dubbed “G-Cares,” at the Bacolod City College gymnasium on Monday.

The launch coincided with the city’s school-based HIV/AIDS education campaign, which officials said is meant to strengthen prevention efforts among young people.

City officials said the platform is designed to remove barriers to care and will soon allow users to book HIV testing and consultations, request medical assistance, access free testing referrals, connect with counseling services, and receive verified HIV-related information through smartphones.

Officials said G-Cares will implement strict confidentiality measures once it is fully operational.

Gasataya said digital access is crucial in addressing rising HIV cases.

“We are launching a program that is easily accessible through your mobile phones,” he said.

Negros Occidental, including Bacolod, is among the areas in the Philippines with a high number of HIV cases, and Bacolod has recorded 1,312 cases as of late 2025, city officials said.

Officials said the figures represent people — sons, daughters, parents, friends and loved ones — who may be silently facing HIV-related challenges.

“This prompted us to strengthen our educational programs and make services more accessible to everyone,” Gasataya said.

He said putting services online helps ensure assistance is within reach.

“Through this platform, Bacolodnons can access health services safely and confidentially. No fear, no stigma — just support when you need it,” he said.

City officials said the local government has intensified HIV/AIDS awareness campaigns since July last year across public and private high schools, colleges and workplaces to expand access to accurate, science-based information.

During the launch, health officials underscored prevention strategies that include early testing, access to correct information, stigma reduction and shared responsibility in curbing the spread of the virus.

Officials reminded the public that people living with HIV are protected under Republic Act 11166, the Philippine HIV and AIDS Policy Act, and other laws that safeguard rights and access to services.

Gasataya said the city government will support people living with HIV.

“If you are living with HIV/AIDS, know that you have an entire city that supports you. Let us break the stigma and spread kindness and compassion,” he said.