Health workers, local partners, and community members in Brooke’s Point, Palawan gathered in observance of the International AIDS Candlelight Memorial, honoring lives lost to HIV/AIDS while renewing calls for awareness, compassion, and stigma-free support for affected individuals.
The Municipal Health Office of Brooke’s Point led the commemoration, highlighting the importance of education, early testing, and community solidarity in addressing HIV/AIDS.
“In celebration of the International AIDS Candlelight Memorial, we gathered as one community to remember lives, spread awareness, and ignite hope for a brighter and stigma-free future,” organizers said in a statement.
Each candle lit during the event symbolized remembrance and support for individuals and families affected by HIV/AIDS.
“This meaningful event reminds us that every candle we light symbolizes love, support, remembrance, and strength for individuals and families affected by HIV/AIDS,” the statement added.
Organizers emphasized the need to strengthen public awareness and promote understanding to combat discrimination.
“Let us continue to stand united in the fight against HIV/AIDS by choosing education over discrimination, care over judgment, and hope over fear,” they said.
The event concluded with a message of gratitude to health workers and partners who supported the initiative, underscoring the continuing effort to promote health education and community engagement in the municipality.
