In the heart of the Philippines, young people in Palawan face a silent but pressing crisis: the rise of HIV/AIDS and teenage pregnancies. But there’s hope on the horizon, thanks to the collaborative efforts of several organizations.
Welcome to the journey of “Save S.E.X.Y. (Sex Education & eXperiences of the Youth)” program, an initiative standing at the frontline of this pressing issue.
The Crisis and the Solution
HIV/AIDS and teenage pregnancy are among the most pressing health issues young Filipinos face today.
The solution? Honest, open, and scientifically accurate discussions on sexuality, comprehensive sexuality education in schools, and compassionate, unbiased clinical services for the youth.
Enter the Save S.E.X.Y. program. Its mission is to empower young people, drive behavior change, and foster a supportive community that prioritizes sexual health education and prevention.
It’s time for us, as individuals and as a nation, to protect our young generation.
Collaboration at its Best
This program wasn’t a solo endeavor. The Rotaract Club of Puerto Princesa Central, the Rotary Club of Puerto Princesa Central, and JCI Puerto Princesa Oil spearheaded the initiative.
They collaborated with Roots of Health, Puerto Princesa City Health Office, Provincial Health Office, and several other partners to bring this vision to life.
Beneficiaries: The young people of Palawan and high-risk individuals.
Objectives and Overview
The Save S.E.X.Y. public health effort is a comprehensive initiative with clear goals:
- Conduct HIV 101 sessions & Community-based HIV Screenings to raise awareness.
- Organize Community Outreaches and Information & Education campaigns on HIV/AIDS and Teenage Pregnancy.
- Train youth CBS motivators and build a community of youth advocates.
- Organize the advocacy-driven Miss Tandikan and Red Race event.
By engaging the community, the program aims to remove the stigma associated with HIV, spread accurate information, and provide young people with the tools they need to make informed decisions.
Results Speak Louder
The program’s impact is evident:
- 26 HIV 101 Sessions Conducted
- 3,303 Participants attending HIV 101 Sessions
- 23 Community-Based HIV screenings Organized
- 715 Individuals Screened for HIV
- 26 Community Outreaches Conducted
- 2,475 Participants Reached through Community Outreaches
Rotaractors Jayson Gerona and John April Limco from Rotaract Club of Puerto Princesa Central, who happen to be CBS Motivators collaborated with schools, community centers, and youth organizations to plan and schedule HIV 101 sessions.
They promoted these sessions through various channels, trained youth motivators, and fostered a sense of community among youth advocates.
Through these efforts, the Save S.E.X.Y. campaign aims to significantly reduce HIV/AIDS and teen pregnancy rates among young people.
The Bottom Line
The Save S.E.X.Y. program is more than just an initiative – it’s a movement. As it continues to grow and evolve, its impact on the youth of Palawan is undeniable.
The future looks brighter, with more informed, empowered, and healthy young individuals leading the way.
