SAFE CHOICES

Empowering Health and Awareness Advocates.

[safechoices]

𝐏𝐀𝐆𝐋𝐀𝐁𝐀𝐍 𝐒𝐀 𝐒𝐓𝐈𝐆𝐌𝐀 : 𝘈𝘯𝘨 𝘬𝘸𝘦𝘯𝘵𝘰 𝘯𝘨 𝘱𝘢𝘨-𝘢𝘴𝘢 𝘢𝘵 𝘭𝘢𝘬𝘢𝘴 𝘴𝘢 𝘮𝘨𝘢 𝘵𝘢𝘰𝘯𝘨 𝘯𝘢𝘣𝘶𝘣𝘶𝘩𝘢𝘺 𝘯𝘨 𝘮𝘢𝘺 𝘏𝘐𝘝.

Sa paglipas ng panahon, ang HIV ay hindi lamang isang sakit, kundi isang laban sa nakalipas na dalawang dekada. Ngunit sa harap ng diskriminasyon at stigma, mayroong mga tapang na indibidwal na nagiging tanglaw ng pag-asa. Ang bawat kwento ay nagdudulot ng lihim na galak at nagbibigay inspirasyon sa pagtahak ng landas ng pagtanggap at pag-unawa. Sa ating pag-usad, tuklasin natin ang kahalagahan ng pag-alis ng takot at pag-angat ng mga boses ng mga taong bukas ang puso at handang magsalaysay ng kanilang mga karanasan. Ito ang panahon na buksan natin ang ating mga puso at isipan, at sa pagtutulungan, itanghal natin ang mga tinig ng pag-asa laban sa mabigat na kamalian ng HIV stigma.

Ang taong nasa larawan ay si Mr. Raffy Aldemir isang taong may HIV sa loob ng pitong taon. Ayon kay raffy hindi naging madali sa kanya ang pagtanggap sa naturang sakit. Nagpalipat lipat sila ng pagamutan, inabot ng halos tatlong buwang pakikibaka sa loob ng Ospital. Dumating sa puntong gusto na niyang sumuko sa sakit, na ayaw na niyang lumaban at magpahinga na lamang ng tuluyan. Sa timbang na 60 kilos ay bumagsak ito hanggang 30 kilos na nagdulot sa kanya ng labis na panghihina. Sa mga oras na nalaman niya na siya ay may HIV ,gumuho ang kanyang mundo tila ba nawalan na siya ng pag-asang mabuhay at magpatuloy sa kanyang nasimulan gayunpaman hindi sya nagpatalo sa sakit , naging gabay niya ang Dios ,ang kanyang ina at kapatid lalong lalo na ang mga malalapit na kakilala upang siya ay mabigyan ng kaalaman laban sa sakit na HIV.

Ang discriminasyon ang pinakamalaking pagsubok na hinaharap ng mga taong may HIV. Hindi natin hawak ang isipan ng mga tao kung paano nila tingnan ang mga taong may HIV lalong lalo na kung sila ay walang mga sapat na kaalaman hinggil sa sakit na ito. Ayon kay raffy una niyang naranasan ang discriminasyon sa kanyang mga kaibigan, marami ang lumayo ng malaman ng mga ito ang sakit ni raffy. Doon lang niya napagtanto kung sino ang totoo niyang mga kaibigan bagkus pinatunayan niya sa mga ito na may mga tao pa ring handa siyang tanggapin kung sino at ano sya at ito ay ang kanyang mga pamilya.

Sa paglipas ng pitong taong pakikipaglaban nalampasan ni raffy ang pagsubok na hindi niya inakalang malalampasan nya. Isa ng case manager sa sakit na HIV si Raffy sa isang pribadong Pagamutan at isa rin siyang HIV/AIDS councilor advocate. Doon din niya naipamahagi ang kanyang kaalaman sa paglaban sa sakit na HIV. Na ito ay hindi dapat maging hadlang sa mga pangarap ng mga taong may HIV na hindi pa ito katapusan ng mundo. Aniya habang may buhay may pag-asa.

[safechoices]

Living with Hope: A Personal Journey of Raffy Ardemil

Disclaimer: Photo’s owned by Raffy Ardemil

Raffy Ardemil is a 34-year-old Filipino who is a Bachelor of Secondary Education graduate. He is currently working as an HIV Case Manager and HIV Coded Counselor at the City Health Office. In addition, he is also a Mental Health Care Provider. Raffy resides in Zone 7, Acasia Extension, Carmen, Cagayan de Oro City.

As an HIV Case Manager, Raffy is responsible for managing cases of people living with HIV. He works closely with patients to ensure that they receive the necessary care and support. As an HIV Coded Counselor, he provides counseling services to people living with HIV. He helps them cope with the emotional and psychological challenges that come with the diagnosis. As a Mental Health Care Provider, Raffy provides mental health services to people who are experiencing mental health issues. He helps them manage their symptoms and improve their quality of life.

HIV, Human Immunodeficiency Virus, is a global health concern that has significantly impacted individuals, families, and communities. This blog aims to shed light on the realities of living with HIV through the story of a resilient individual who has faced the challenges associated with the virus.

In a world where misconceptions and stigma often surround HIV, it is crucial to understand the virus and its effects on individuals. HIV weakens the immune system, making it difficult for the body to fight off infections and diseases. Contrary to popular belief, HIV cannot be transmitted through casual contact, but the stigma associated with the virus persists.

The journey of living with HIV is not only physical but also emotional. Raffy’s story reflects the emotional toll that HIV can take on an individual. From the initial shock of the diagnosis to the ongoing management of the virus, each day brings new challenges. However, through a combination of medical treatment, a strong support system, and personal resilience, Raffy has learned to navigate these challenges with grace.

Moreover, the story emphasizes the importance of education and dispelling myths surrounding HIV. Raffy has dedicated their life to raising awareness about the virus, advocating for regular testing, and promoting safe practices. By sharing their experience, Raffy has helped destigmatize HIV and encourage open conversations about sexual health.

Living with HIV is not a sentence of despair, but rather a testament to the strength of the human spirit. Through the story of Raffy, we see that a positive outlook, access to medical care, and a supportive community can make a significant difference in the life of someone living with HIV. It is our collective responsibility to foster understanding, eradicate stigma, and support those affected by HIV as they continue to live with hope and resilience.

[safechoices]

Why some men are less likely to use condoms?

This topic might be considered a complex issue to discuss due to various factors contributing to it. However, in this blog, we will be navigating the several reasons why some men are less likely to use condoms.

And here are some of the common reasons found on the internet:

1. Perceived reduced pleasure: Many men believe that condoms decrease their sexual pleasure, either for themselves or their partner. This perception can be influenced by factors like personal experiences, social norms, and inaccurate information about condom use.

https://images.app.goo.gl/5qeXEYvqWLigHnhb6

2. Trust in partner: Some men may forgo condoms with regular partners due to a sense of trust and reduced perceived risk of STIs. However, this can be a risky assumption, as STIs can be asymptomatic and transmitted even in long-term relationships.

https://images.app.goo.gl/MhQ9wmxdqwHZJJ6q8

3. Masculinity norms: Traditional masculinity ideals often emphasize sexual prowess and risk-taking, which can discourage condom use. Men may feel pressured to be seen as "macho" and avoid appearing concerned about STI prevention.

https://images.app.goo.gl/druGyg1MRJuBMwzD6

4. Attractiveness bias: Some studies suggest that men may be less likely to use condoms with partners they find more attractive. This could be due to evolutionary motivations or a desire to increase their perceived social status.According to the study of  PLoS One. (2019). Their study found that the more attractive a man was judged to be, the more likely it was that participants were willing to have sex with him. While the more attractive a man was judged to be, the less likely women were to intend to use a condom during sex . This study may also possess a great influence on why some men are less likely to use condoms.

https://images.app.goo.gl/wa3Jnixm5B437qgW9

5. Accessibility and availability: Lack of access to condoms or difficulty using them due to fit or other issues can also play a role. According to Health Perspect (2020), social, political, and structural barriers prevent access of Filipinos from effective condom use. Some of the barriers are restrictive policies in the purchase of condoms in local government units, inadequate sex education in schools, and the resistance of the Roman Catholic Church to condom use.

https://images.app.goo.gl/EbacFeu7on9fGBLJ6

6. Communication challenges: Open communication about sexual health and condom use can be difficult, especially for young men. This can lead to misunderstandings and inconsistent condom use.

https://images.app.goo.gl/ZgxvsQEPp5UdNVyw8

It's important to remember that these are just some of the factors that may contribute to lower condom use among men. Individual experiences, relationships, and cultural contexts can also play a significant role. Some research on this topic is ongoing and evolving. It is also important to know that more studies are needed to fully understand the complex reasons behind men's condom use choices.

At Safe Choices, we believe that comprehensive sex education is the key to making informed decisions about your sexual health. Our mission is to provide accurate information and resources to help you prioritize your safety and well-being. Join us in our campaign to promote comprehensive preventive education, safe and non-discrimination, diversity in any form of preventive expression, and respect for privacy. Let’s work together to make sure that everyone has the knowledge and power to make informed decisions about their sexual well-being.

For more info, follow us at Safe Choices and learn more..

[safechoices]

Are FILIPINOS ready to be educated about C.O.N.D.O.M?

In this society which has rich cultural traditions and deeply rooted values, some may feel that talking about CONDOM can be sensitive and might oppose subject to broach, specifically among conservative Filipinos. This blog explores the variation of perspectives within this demographic, to acknowledge the evolving discourse about CONDOM.

Understanding Conservative Values

The Philippines' conservative values often revolve around family ties, religious beliefs, and social expectations. Regarding sexual health, these values are crucial to forming an individual's opinion on various topics.https://www.quora.com/Why-do-you-think-Filipinos-are-conservatives 

Challenges in Discussing Condom Use 

Discussions about condom use can be met with resistance in conservative circles due to concerns about morality, religion, and teachings.  It is essential, however, to foster an open dialogue that can accommodate a broad range of opinions and experiences.

Changing and Embracing Dynamics

There is a noticeable trend of younger generations challenging traditional views regarding sexual health as societal norms shift and awareness surrounding sexual health grows.  It appears that some conservative Filipinos are reconsidering their views on condom use, recognizing condoms' role in preventing unwanted pregnancies, STDs, and HIV and AIDS.

Exploring Cultural and Religious Influences

Conservative perspectives often shape the intersection of cultural and religious influences. By emphasizing responsible family planning while adhering to their values, some people can reconcile their beliefs with the practical benefits of condom use.

Promoting Education

In this debate, it is critical to address myths and provide factual facts on condom usage. Initiatives that encourage sexual health education that are supported by evidence-based data can help to build a more educated and empowered conservative Filipino community.

respecting the diversity of opinions within the conservative filipino demographic is paramount.  encouraging a non-judgemental environment allows individuals to make decisions aligned with their values while recognizing the importance of health and well-being.

Follow us at safe choices and learn more ...

[safechoices]

Bakit takot ang karamihan sa mga lalaki bumili ng condom?

Ikaw? malakas ba loob mo? bili ka nga ng condom!

Ikaw rin ba ay napapabilang sa mga takot bumili ng condom? o ikaw ba ay isa sa mga may lakas ng loob na bumili ng condom? kung ikaw napabilang sa dalawang usaping ito o hindi ay pag usapan natin ang mga bagay-bagay patungkol sa usaping condom o proteksyon sa seksuwal na gawain. 

Image from ( inenglishlove.com)

Ilan nga sa diskusyong ito ay matatagpuan rin sa iba't ibang website kaya ng usapan ng ilang netizen sa (http://talk.philmusic.com/index.php?topic=158409.80;wap2).

Kung saan makikita ang usapan ng iilan sa mga followers  ng site na ito ang nakapagbigay-aliw ngunit nagpapakita ng realidad tungkol sa usapin ng condom. Ayun kay queso: "nakakahiya talaga bumili, ewan ko kung bakit. Kaya madalas kong gawin pag bibili ng condom, mag sasama ako ng chips tapos itataob ko yung condom para di mabasa nang iba".Sabi naman ni kelen: medyo nahihiya dahil sure ako na iniisip nung cashier at nung ibang tao na nakakakita na makikipag-sex ako. pero what the hell, atleast I'm doing it safe"

Sa panahong ito malaki nga ang impluwensya ng social media sa mga tao, kagaya nga ng isang nag-viral na post tungkol sa komento ng isang netizen sa Facebook sa isang ads ng condom brand ng Durex. Makikitang nakakatuwa ang makababasa ng isang kumento na nagpapahayag ng pagkahiya sa pagbili ng condom. Ayon nga sa komento, kung saan ibinahagi ng isang netizen ang kanyang karansan sa pagbili ng condom sa isang convenience store ika nga nito:

 "Nahiya talaga ako sa girl kanina sa 7-11... binuking ako na bibili ako ng condom, tas imagine, pinagsigawan pa tapos pina-price pa lahat ng brands ng condom. savage talaga. Sabi ko, ano mas mura at ung makapal dyan? Sorry sir wala po ako idea neto sabay tawa pa. lakas talaga ng boses ni Ate..... nagtanong oa sa guard, hiyang hiya talaga ako sa nakapila na customer..... buti naman may Lazadad na ako pupunta sa mga retailer store to purchase condom.. ang awkward kaya nun."

Ang screenshot na yan ay pinost naman ng isang netizen kung saan nagbigay din ito ng kanyang opinyon hinggil dito. Sinabi ni Eran Arvonio, sa kanyang post na "Nasa pagiging masyadong conservative siguro ng Filipino culture kaya sobrang nahihiya ang mga Pilipino na bumili ng condom" dagdag pa nito na"Maliban sa nakakahiya, pag bumili man ng condom, hindi naman lahat marunong gumamit, o mali ang mga alam tungkol sa mga condom. Kaya dapat din talaga na may sex education sa Pilipinas. Masyadong mysterious ang topic ng sex para sa kabataan ngayon, kaya sa sobrang curiosity nila, nagtatanong sila sa mga kaibigan, o nagsesearch sa internet. Mabuti sana kung reliable ang sources nila, pero in most cases, karamihan mali ang alam, o mga umaasa lang sa sikat na chismis."

Noong buwan ng Enero taong 2017 nga ay humakot na naman ng samot-saring opinyon ang balita tungkol sa libreng condom na ipapamigay ng DOH at DEPed sa mga estudyante. Dahil nga marami ang tutol dito lalo't lalo na ang simbahang Katoliko.Tinutulan ng simbahan ang planong pamimigay ng condom sa mga estudyante para mapigil ang dumaraming bilang ng mga kabataang nagkakaroon ng HIV-AIDS. Mariin ding tinutulan ng simbahan ang panukala sa Kongreso na same-sex marriage. At hanggang ngayon tila ba ay nabaon na sa limot ang diskusyong patungkol sa condom. 

Ngayong taong 2024 nga ay may isang video na namang nag-viral  galing sa tiktok account ng isang pharmacist content creator na si Arshie Larga. Kung saan makikita ang tatlong may edad na kabataan ang nagtatalo kung sino sa kanila ang bibili ng condom. Agad naman silang tinawagan ni Arshie at tinanong kung ano ang pinagkakaguluhan nilang  tatlo. Sa kanilang tatlo, isa ang nagpahayag ng kanilang intensyon na makakuha ng "Trust" na condom. Sumagot si Arshie, "Ay akala ko kung ano na" at idinagdag pa niya  na hindi nila dapat ikahiya ang pagbili ng condom.

Marahil ay nakakaaliw ang pangyayaring ito, ngunit ito ang karaniwang karanasan para sa mga indibidwal na gustong bumili ng condom, kung saan tila nahihiya tayong magtanong tungkol dito sa botika. Ipinapakita lamang ng video na ito na maraming mga indibidwal ang nakakaalam ng mga bagay na nagpapalaganap ng kalusugan, ngunit lumilitaw na nahahadlangan tayo ng hindi maipaliwanag na pakiramdam ng pagkakahiya kapag bibili na tayo nito. Panoorin ang video::https://vt.tiktok.com/ZSNvx7H46/ 

Hanggang ngayon nga ay tila hindi parin bukas sa mga pilipino ang pag-usapan ang diskusyon patungkol sa condom. 

Para sa dagdag pang kaalaman I-follow ang Safe Choices campaign sa facebook at tumblr.

[safechoices]

Hala! Ing ani na diay ka daghan ang kaso sa HIV sa CDO? Basaha...

Kaso sa Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) sa Cagayan de Oro City

Sumala sa Department of Health Region 10 (DOH-10), niabot na sa 2,561 ka mga kaso sa human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) ang natala sa rehiyon sa Northern Mindanao gikan sa unang pagkakita niadtong 1991.

Ang probinsya sa Misamis Oriental, nga naglakip sa Cagayan de Oro City, maoy nakatala sa pinakadaghang kaso sa HIV sa rehiyon nga adunay 1,431 ka kaso.

Rising HIV infections – DW – 08/02/2017

The Philippines has the fastest growing HIV epidemic in the Asia-Pacific region. At its current rate, the total number of HIV infections cou

Importante ang pagpataas sa kahibalo mahitungod sa pagpugong ug pagtambal sa HIV.

Ang DOH-10 nagtutok sa paghatag ug dugang kahibalo sa mga kabatan-onan tungod sa pagtaas sa mga kaso sa HIV ilabina sa mga batan-on nga nag-edad og 15 ngadto sa 24 anyos.

Ang publiko kinahanglan nga mas mahibalo ug kahibalo sa pagpugong sa HIV aron malikayan ang impeksyon. Nagtaas ang sa kaso sa HIV sa nasud base sa kasagarang kaso nga namatikdan kada adlaw.

 (1)DOH tallies over 2.5k confirmed HIV cases in Northern Mindanao. https://mb.com.ph/2022/12/01/doh-tallies-over-2-5k-confirmed-hiv-cases-in-northern-mindanao/.

(2) Central Visayas records 190 new HIV cases from Jan – Mar 2021. https://cebudailynews.inquirer.net/386189/central-visayas-records-190-new-hiv-cases-from-jan-to-mar-2021.

(3) HIV cases alarm students in Oro - The Monitor Mindanao Today. https://mindanaotoday.com/hiv-cases-alarm-students-in-oro/.

[safechoices]

SAFE CHOICES VALUES

At Safe Choices Initiative, we believe that comprehensive sex education is the key to making informed decisions about your sexual health. Our mission is to provide accurate information and resources to help you prioritize your safety and well-being. Join us in our campaign to promote comprehensive preventive education, safe and non-discrimination, diversity in any form of preventive expression, and respect for privacy. Let’s work together to make sure that everyone has the knowledge and power to make informed decisions about their sexual well-being. #ComprehensiveSexEducation#DiseasePrevention#HealthyLiving#RegretNotCondomUse

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[safechoices]

Empowering Education, Ensuring Safety!Join our educational campaign group, the “Safe Choices Initiative; and learn how to protect your pleasure while practicing safe measures. Together, let's make informed choices for a safer and happier experience.

Spread the word with our hashtags:

#SafeChoicesInitiative

#EducateToProtect.