Raising Awareness: Combat Against HIV/AIDS

By: Shaira Brito

Due to the rapidly increasing number of HIV and AIDS cases in the country, the Supreme
Student Council took the initiative to spread knowledge and awareness among Penans through
a symposium on February 29, 2024.
Throughout the seminar, students were able to grasp a clear understanding of HIV
(Human Immunodeficiency Virus) and AIDS (Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome) as they
engaged in a thorough discussion about their causes, prevention, and misconceptions. Two
guest speakers were invited to share their insights and knowledge about the topic. The first
speaker, Mr. Samuel David Banico, RN, tackled the basic knowledge of HIV/AIDS. Mr. Banico
focused on clearing misconceptions people usually hold about the transmission of the disease.
According to him, in order to avoid these diseases, one must be educated.
Subsequently, Ma’am Hazel Jennifer Rodriguez-Cardano, RN, the second speaker,
shared her knowledge and focused on the factors that affect the teenage pregnancy rate in the
Philippines, especially in the Bicol Region. She also highlighted the physical, mental, and
emotional changes brought about by puberty,which affect the thinking and decision-making of
these young adults.
As the seminar drew to an end, the SSC officers handed out several pamphlets
containing different topics that were discussed that day to give the students further
information. Overall, the seminar served as a platform to raise awareness and help students
understand thoroughly this global health issue. This new generation will change the future of
the country by learning from other people’s mistakes and choosing better paths.