by Ma. Irene Quilantang

MANILA, Philippines – People living with human immunodeficiency virus (PLHIV) are again faced with the threat of another virus: the coronavirus disease or COVID-19. But they are not alone in their fight, as community-based organizations in the Philippines have intensified their efforts to ensure that PLHIV treatment and care remain uninterrupted amid the pandemic.

Since March 17, the Philippine government has enforced a lockdown on the entire island of Luzon, home to over 57 million people, in a bid to contain the spread of the coronavirus disease in the country.

Following the announcement, checkpoints were set up. Mass public transportation was suspended, and land, air, and sea travel restricted. According to government officials, Filipinos must stay home as the general rule. (READ: LIST: Who are allowed out during Luzon lockdown?)

Hurdles posed by the lockdown

People living with HIV are among those significantly affected by the enhanced community quarantine, as it poses challenges to access life-saving medication and services. As of August 2019, the HIV/AIDS and ART registry of the Philippines reported that 40,952 PLHIV are undergoing antiretroviral treatment (ART).

The World Health Organization (WHO) and the Joint United Nations Programme on HIV/AIDS (UNAIDS) have explained that there is currently no evidence that PLHIV are at an especially increased risk of contracting COVID-19. Read more via Rappler