On December 1, 2025—a day that felt less like a date on a calendar and more like a pivotal moment in history—the Municipality of Candelaria, Quezon illuminated the path forward. Under the resolute banner, “Candelaria World AIDS Day 2025: Overcoming Disruption, Transforming the AIDS Response,” this gathering was not merely an event; it was a promise—a powerful declaration that this community stands ready to meet challenge with compassion and fear with fearless advocacy.
Uniting for Good
The day’s triumph was powered by unity so vast and dedicated that it embodied the very spirit of Filipino bayanihan. The unwavering support of the Local Government Unit (LGU) and the clinical authority of the Rural Health Unit (RHU) provided a strong foundation. However, it was the passionate synergy of the youth—the Pederasyon ng Sangguniang Kabataan (PPSK) and Kaya Natin Youth Candelaria (KNYC)—alongside crucial advocacy groups such as DASH Inc. and the exceptionally pivotal Wagayway Equality Inc., that transformed planning into poetry.
Crucially, the Rotaract Club of Candelaria Circle (RACCC) championed the manpower effort, bringing an unprecedented level of support from five dedicated co-host clubs: the Rotaract Club of Sariaya United, Rotaract Club of Lucena Circle, Rotaract Club of Tiaong Transforming New Gen, Rotaract Club of Cosmopolitan Lucena, and the sponsoring Rotary Club of Candelaria Circle. This expanded alliance, working with singular focus, proved that unity is the ultimate force for progress—hence, the call to always #UniteForGood.
This alliance did not merely coordinate committees; it infused them with purpose, embodying the philosophy: “Alone we can do so little; together we can do so much.”
- The RHU’s Free Testing Committee served as a sanctuary of discretion and care, directly dismantling barriers of fear.
- Wagayway Equality Inc. took on a critical leadership role by heading the comprehensive pre-test and post-test evaluations and providing two specialized guest speakers for the essential HIV 101 and impactful SOGIESC 101 discussions.
- SK Mangilag Sur extended more than logistical support by sponsoring 100 free shirts for early participants, ensuring attendees began the day feeling recognized and valued.
- The combined forces of the youth organizations and RACCC ensured the meticulous operation of all committees. Their members were not merely runners; they were the arteries of the event, ensuring that information, assistance, and hope flowed seamlessly.
From Protocol to Passion: The Morning’s Call
The day began with the profound symbolism of the flag-raising ceremony, grounding the call to action in civic duty and collective destiny. A vibrant processional parade followed—a moving testament to visibility—leading participants to the covered court, the arena of transformation.
After the warm welcome by Dr. Queenie M. Mateo, the podium was graced by leaders who lent institutional authority to the cause. An inspiring welcome message from Mayor George D. Suayan signaled that the full force of local government stood behind the community’s health and equality. He reminded the assembly that true leadership is rooted in vulnerability and care. The subsequent recognition of partners was not mere formality; it was a heartfelt salute to the heroes of the day.
Illuminating the Path: Courage and Commitment
The program quickly soared to new heights with the electrifying energy brought by the first of three stellar drag queen performers—all top three winners of the Drag Race organized by SK Poblacion during the 2025 Pride Celebration. Their presence broke the ice, affirming the truth that joy and serious advocacy can—and must—walk hand in hand.
Momentum continued as Mr. Frederick V. Salonga of DASH Inc. unveiled a new initiative—a proactive stride toward reaching those often left in the shadows. This was followed by the resonant voice of Mr. John Rey C. Suarez, who led the Pledge of Commitment. Each signature and spoken promise became a vow to dismantle stigma and transform the AIDS response.
Core educational discussions were delivered as promised by the alliance. Mr. Joram B. Asnar, Administrative Assistant of Batangas Medical Center, provided expert clinical knowledge during the HIV awareness session. This segment was punctuated by a dynamic performance from the second drag queen performer. However, it was the powerful testimony of Mr. Jaime Mikhail R. Mata, a survivor, that truly amplified the day’s purpose. His courage transformed statistics into a living story of resilience and hope.
The Vision of Full Inclusion
The afternoon session was dedicated to a fundamental truth: there can be no health without equality. As part of Wagayway Equality Inc.’s advocacy, Mr. Ryzen Evangelista led a crucial discussion on SOGIESC (Sexual Orientation, Gender Identity, Gender Expression, and Sex Characteristics). This dialogue reinforced the need for an inclusive response where every individual is seen, protected, and treated with dignity.
The second survivor’s testimony, courageously shared by Mr. Terrence Joseph F. Casuncad, further deepened collective empathy. As dusk approached, the solemn Candlelight Memorial honored those lost to the global health challenge, forging a shared vow among the living.
The day concluded on a triumphant note with the final exuberant performance by the remaining drag queen performer—an affirmation that Candelaria continues to move forward with solidarity and resolve. In the closing remarks delivered by Ms. Regina G., one message was clear: this event marked not an end, but a beginning.
Candelaria, Quezon did not simply commemorate World AIDS Day—it galvanized a movement. By overcoming disruption and transforming the AIDS response, the community proved that the most powerful forces for change remain unconditional love and unwavering courage.
