MST News, 7 April 2014

METRO Manila mobile phone users can now text for HIV and AIDS consultation and treatment.

The Philippine National AIDS Council and Globe Telecommunications are piloting TXT HIV to 8504, a campaign that provides information and referral to HIV counseling, testing, and life-saving treatment programs.

The campaign was launched on Friday at no extra cost to Globe mobile subscribers for one year.

Powered by the telco's technology and services, a subscriber can initiate the service by texting "HIV" and sending to 8504.

A series of messages and interactive voice responses guides users through information, risk assessment, and referral to participating health facilities in Metro Manila.

Initially, TXT HIV to 8504 features Social Hygiene Clinics of Quezon City Manila, Pasay, and the Woodwater Center in Pasig City.

The campaign loops contact details of PNAC, Department of Health, and PinoyLifeguide.org as supporting information sources.

UNAIDS executive director Michel Sidibe called for "harnessing technology in creative ways will help us reach people in need."

He said HIV services should be "as ubiquitous as mobile phone coverage."

Raising public awareness is a cornerstone policy in the national AIDS law enacted in 1998.

By Macon Ramos-Araneta

Source: MST News