Last November 30, 2023, an enlightening and impactful event took place at the University Auditorium which was organized in celebration of World AIDS Day. The event featured an insightful “HIV 101” talk followed by a discussion on SOGIESC (Sexual Orientation, Gender Identity, Expression, and Sex Characteristics). The event aligns with the United Nations’ call for Higher Education Institutions (HEIs) to support Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). As such, it is in response to:

SDG 3: Good Health and Well-being: Promoting health education and awareness about HIV/AIDS contributes to achieving this goal.

SDG 5: Gender Equality: Addressing issues related to SOGIESC involves ensuring equal rights and opportunities regardless of gender identity or sexual orientation.

SDG 10: Reduced Inequalities: Creating awareness and understanding of diverse sexual orientations and gender identities helps in reducing discrimination and promoting inclusivity. SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals: Collaboration between different entities, such as the Pilipinas Shell Foundation Inc. and the Department of Health (DOH) Center for Health Development, exemplifies partnerships to achieve these objectives.

The highlight of the event was the engaging and informative session led by the esteemed Regional Area Coordinator from Pilipinas Shell Foundation Inc., Mr. Symsom Maquera. The speaker’s expertise shed light on various aspects of HIV awareness, prevention, and treatment, offering attendees a comprehensive understanding of the subject. In collaboration with the Department of Health (DOH) Center for Health Development, this event aimed to create awareness, dispel myths, and promote inclusivity within our community. Its significance was evident in the tremendous turnout, with 468 enthusiastic onsite participants actively engaging in discussions and learning.

Moreover, the event transcended physical boundaries, attracting 62 attendees via Zoom, thereby extending its reach and impact beyond the venue’s confines.

The collective participation and enthusiasm demonstrated by both onsite and online attendees exemplified a strong commitment to understanding and advocating for crucial health-related issues. This event served as a testament to our community’s dedication to promoting health education and fostering a supportive environment for everyone, regardless of their sexual orientation, gender identity, or expression.