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In
support of the global and national response to the HIV/AIDS
epidemic, PATH Foundation Philippines Inc., a non-stock, non-profit
NGO, conducted a series of trainings for OFW dependents in
Tagbilaran City and in the municipalities of Jagna, Loboc,
Maribojoc, and Tubigon.
The
series of trainings were conducted to provide the participants
with knowledge and skills to help peers in their communities
in reducing their risks of acquiring HIV, the virus that causes
AIDS, and other STIs or sexually transmitted infections. This
initiative, supported by the Asian Development Bank, is in
sync with the objectives of the local AIDS councils in Bohol.
This
project will utilize the peer education model which proved,
based on evidence, that information received from someone
on the same social group is more readily accepted and valued.
The peer educators will conduct activities that will provide
information on HIV/AIDS and STIs prevention to their friends,
families, and most importantly their spouses.
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As
of July 2007, the National HIV/AIDS Registry of the
DOH reports that there are already 2,916 Filipinos living
with HIV and AIDS. 35 percent of this are Overseas Filipino
Workers. For this particular group, sexual intercourse
was the major mode of transmission therefore their spouses
share similar risks factors for HIV and STI transmission.
According
to National Statistics Office data, Region 7, which
includes Bohol, ranked among the top 6 regions in the
country with the highest number of OFWs in 2005.
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There
are 5,904 OFWs from Bohol registered with the Overseas Workers
Welfare Administration (OWWA) from January 2004 to October
2006. This makes the project relevant in terms of reaching
a significant number of the target population.
Majority
of the participants are members of the organizations/ associations
of OFW dependents namely; The Apostleship of the Seas, Taloto
Seafarers' Association, Maribojoc Seafarers' Association,
Beato Pedro Calungsod Seafarers' Association, and Barangay
Oy OFW Dependents' Association. The others are individuals
reached through community work by the project staff. Overall,
a total of 109 spouses of OFWs were trained.
Present
during the series of trainings to show LGU support and involvement
in this initiative were Discora Sumapong (LEPO), John Paul
Nistal (DOLE-OWWA), Hon. Cenen Lloren (SB on Health), Hon
Froilan Cosgafa Jr. (SB on Health), Hon. Zeus Manuel Descallar
(SB on Health), Dr. John Apollo Bernalez (Medical Officer,
CHO), Dr. Rey Belderol (MHO), Dr. Dulce Cenita (MHO), Dr.
Arnold Cagulada (MHO), and Mayor Luna Piezas.
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