CdeO LGU Inaugurates HIV Treatment Hub At City Health Office

By Mona Lagbas

May 30, 2025 Cagayan de Oro City_In observance of International AIDS Candlelight Memorial and Mobilization Day Friday, the local government of Cagayan de Oro inaugurated the NEST (Nurturing Emphatic Support and Treatment) Wellness Hub at the City Health building. This NEST facility is a primary HIV (human immunodeficiency virus) treatment hub.

The event was attended by concerned government agencies, stakeholders, partner organisations and private individuals.

In her message, City Councilor Maria Lourdes S. Gaane, Vice Chairperson of the City AIDS council, emphasized the importance of an intensified information and education campaign against this deadly disease, regular testing, and support for PLHIV or people living with HIV.

On her part, Dr. Rachel Dilla, City Health Officer, stressed that with an informed and educated citizenry about HIV, the stigma and discrimination of PLHIVs will be lessened.

Dr. Ronald Romano, Physician and Clinic Manager of NEST Wellness Hub, thanked Mayor Rolando "Klarex" Uy, Vice Mayor Bebot Rodriguez, the 20th City Council and the Local AIDS Council for the establishment of the One Stop Shop for HIV-AIDS prevention and treatment.

The 10th Regional Office of the Health Department certified the NEST as a primary treatment center last April 2, 2025. Photos by Kim Zaldivar/CIO-CDO.