Candles lit at FEM Hall to mark World AIDS Day
By Stephanie Camille Ilar
Flickering candles lit up the FEM Hall grounds at Mariano Marcos State University (MMSU) on December 1, as students and employees gathered to remember those who lost their lives to AIDS and to show support for people living with HIV (PLHIV). The Department of Nursing of the College of Health Sciences (CHS) led the solemn memorial in observance of World AIDS Day.
Themed “Overcoming disruption, transforming AIDS response,” the event aimed to raise HIV awareness, reduce stigma, and promote safe and healthy sexual practices. CHS Dean Dr. Cheryll Didi Nellie Obra explained that HIV and AIDS are everyone’s responsibility, not just healthcare professionals.
With red ribbons pinned on their chests, participants lit the candles as they sang the tribute song "Heal the World” to remember those who died due to AIDS-related diseases, and show solidarity to PLHIV.
The ceremony also launched the U=U (Undetectable Equals Untransmittable) campaign. According to Prof. Santos, the initiative’s objective is to share the scientifically-proven message that a PLHIV who maintains an undetectable viral load through effective treatment cannot transmit or pass the virus to their sexual partners.
Infectious disease specialist Dr. Mary Joyce Urnos-Santos encouraged patients to cultivate resilience, hope, and self-compassion, recognizing their struggles and courage. Early diagnosis and continuous treatment are proven to improve health outcomes and allow PLHIV to lead healthy, productive lives.
Furthermore, MMSU CHS and Extension Directorate in partnership with the AIDS Healthcare Foundation Philippines will be organizing an event as part of the International Condom Day Celebration and Forum on February 2027.
The event was well-supported by the MMSU community, attended by students, faculty, and university officials, including Vice President Fides Bernardo Bitanga, who represented MMSU President Virgilio Julius P. Manzano, Jr.
Dec, 02, 2025 04:26:pm
Written By:
STRATCOM
Other News
Universitas Muria Kudus hosts MMSU CTE profs for lecturer exchange
Free rides offered by MMSU VOAG Terminal drivers
MMSU Receives K9 Bomb-Sniffing Dogs as Lead SUC in CHED-Funded Crisis Management Training
Retired MMSU CTE prof named 2025 UPAA Distinguished Alumna
4 marketing management students pass November CMMS exam