Artist and former National Youth Commission chairperson Ice Seguerra has voiced concern over the alarming rise of HIV cases in the Philippines, particularly among the youth.
In a heartfelt message posted on Facebook, Seguerra called on parents and government leaders to address the crisis with urgency, openness, and evidence-based strategies.
“When I was still with the National Youth Commission, we were presented with the alarming rise in HIV cases among young people,” Ice shared. “We began collaborating with then-Department of Health Secretary Ubial and other agencies to raise awareness and promote testing among youth.”
Seguerra also recalled a learning mission in Thailand, where government initiatives had successfully reduced HIV cases through proactive and inclusive public health strategies. “In Thailand, information dissemination about safe sex in schools, destigmatizing condom use, widespread distribution of condoms, and regular testing for sexually active individuals were some of the effective strategies they employed to combat HIV. I was hopeful.”
However, efforts to implement similar approaches in the Philippines were met with resistance. “Students shared that comprehensive sex education, especially in remote areas, was not being appropriately taught because some teachers felt too embarrassed to discuss the topic,” Seguerra revealed. “To make matters worse, influential figures in the government chose to push their conservative views instead of seeing the bigger picture.”
The resistance went as far as threatening budget cuts. “They threatened to slash my agency’s budget if we proceeded with our plan to distribute condoms to young people,” Seguerra said. “We wanted to make a change and confront the rising HIV epidemic head-on, but our small agency could only do so much. Our hands were tied.”
Calling for a unified national response, Seguerra stressed the importance of courageous leadership and open communication. “This issue requires a whole-of-government approach, and we need leaders who rely on facts—leaders who are not afraid to make difficult decisions, even if they might affect their popularity or challenge their religious beliefs.”
Seguerra also directed an appeal to parents: “I urge you to talk to your kids about sex and connect with them. It’s crucial that we inform them so they can make educated decisions.”
“To our government officials,” Seguerra added, “imposing your personal beliefs will not lead to decisions that benefit the people of our country. Please do better.”
Aside from the advocacy, Ice Seguerra also encouraged followers to support ‘Choosing: A Stage Play’, which he stars in alongside Liza Diño.
“It’s a deeply personal and powerful reflection of the choices we make about who we are, who we love, and how we live our truth,” Seguerra wrote. “It gives voice to stories that are often silenced.”
‘Choosing: A Stage Play’ runs from June 6 to 15 at the Doreen Black Box Theatre, Ateneo De Manila University, directed by Dr. Anton Juan and written by Liza Diño, with music by Vincent De Jesus. Tickets are available at www.ticket2me.net.
