CHAPTER 80

Carlo took a deep breath before continuing. "The Department of Health actually provides free antiretroviral (ARV) medication to anyone who tests positive for HIV, as well as other out-patient services up to a maximum of six hundred dollars per year. Between 2013 and 2015, the government increased funding for the HIV program, and it now pays for seventy percent of all HIV response funding.

Local governments have also increased their efforts by providing resources and implementing innovative HIV prevention services tailored to their specific communities. Quezon City, for example, has three Sundown clinics that offer rapid HIV testing and counseling to MSM and TGW, as well as HIV treatment in a non-stigmatizing environment. Since 2012, the city has increased its funding for such initiatives and is leading a push to encourage other local government units to do the same!"

"What other diseases can be acquired after having sex?" asked Tricia again.

"You can also get herpes genitalis is a co