The Department of Social Welfare and Development Field Office (DSWD) 7 has assisted 373 Persons Living with HIV (PLHIV) in Central Visayas from January to April 2026 through its Community-Based Services Section–PLHIV Assistance and Psychosocial Support Program.
Program Overview
DSWD 7 continues to provide support to individuals with HIV and their families to help them cope with livelihood challenges and improve their well-being. Under Section 36 of Republic Act No. 11166, or the Philippine HIV and AIDS Policy Act, the department offers various types of financial assistance, including support for education, livelihood, burial expenses, transportation, medical needs, and food.
Cash Assistance and Psychosocial Support
According to DSWD 7, the program aims to reduce the impact of HIV and AIDS on affected individuals and families while ensuring their health and well-being. Each qualified beneficiary receives PHP 4,000 in cash assistance to help with their immediate needs. In addition to financial aid, DSWD 7 provides psychosocial support through WiSupport, a free wireless mental health and psychosocial support service for individuals and families facing crises. The service is accessible via text messaging, email, websites, and Facebook.
Medical Assistance and Partnerships
PLHIVs can also avail of medical assistance through the Assistance to Individuals in Crisis Situations (AICS), provided they meet the required assessment and documentary requirements. As services continue, DSWD 7 is strengthening its collaboration with government agencies and non-government organizations (NGOs) to expand support for PLHIVs in the region. The office also accepts referrals from NGOs for cash assistance and psychosocial support services.
Community Engagement
On May 15, 2026, the Community-Based Services Section–PLHIV Assistance and Psychosocial Support Program participated in the International AIDS Candlelight Memorial held at the Cebu City Health Department as part of raising awareness and support for people living with HIV. DSWD 7 remains firmly committed to serving those in need, reflecting the department's principle that “Bawat Buhay ay Mahalaga sa DSWD.”
