by Lito Dar

Baguio City (23 May) -- AIDS is one of the world's greatest challenges. Over the last century, the disease has impacted our communities, families, economies and million of lives. And yet, communities worldwide are hopeful that a solution can be found.

In line with this, the International Advisory Board of the Candlelight Memorial Program and the Global Health Council prepared an official declaration of solidarity for communities participating in the 26th International AIDS Candlelight Memorial, the world's oldest community movement against HIV and AIDS.

The theme for this year's candlelight memorial celebration is "Together, We are the solution." It represents the challenges that remain and our unwavering belief that a solution is possible. The role of civil society is critical to ending HIV and AIDS, but we cannot work alone and hope is not enough. We need action, and communities and governments musk work together.

Locally, the Baguio AIDS Watch Council (AWAC), in partnership with the city government, spearheaded the Candlelight Memorial Celebration, Tuesday, May 19, at the People's Park with a simple program, exhibit and the traditional candle lighting.

The event was well attended by AWAC members, partner line agencies and private sector organizations, including the entertainment establishment in the city. DOLE-CAR regional director Atty Ana Dione served as the guest speaker.

AWAC president Dr Charles Cheng outlined the importance of government programs to help those who are expose or at risk of having HIV/AIDS, the roles of community leaders in the advocacy, the public to erase the stigma that HIV/AIDS victims is experiencing from the people and for the media to write what is really happening to the victims.

Dr. Amelita Pangilinan,of the Center for Health Development CAR stressed the importance of a continuous education campaign on HIV/AIDS, to deter the discrimination being felt by victims, to open the eyes of the public on prevention and the local community's assistance and sectoral supports, in combating AIDS.

On the other hand, Councilor Tabanda assured the City government's continuing support to the programs of the AWAC, through the city's Health Services Office. She also assured that they are doing their best, in the fight against AIDS, as there are already programs in place and more programs will still come through the city's Gender Development and Equality Code.