Bacolod holds public hearing on HIV/AIDS ordinance
Bacolod City -- The first public hearing on the proposed ordinance on STI (Sexually Transmitted Infections) and HIV-AIDS was recently held at the Sangguniang Panlungsod presided by its proponent and the city council chair on Committee on Gender and Women, Councilor Jocelle Batapa.
The ordinance bears the title "An ordinance institutionalizing policies for the prevention of STD/HIV/AIDS in Bacolod City and creating the Bacolod Local STD/HIV/AIDS Council and providing appropriation for such other purposes." It was indorsed to the Sangguniang Panlungsod last January 14.
In essence, the proposed ordinance seeks to increase the awareness of the people on STIs and HIV-AIDS through comprehensive education and information campaign. Proven scientific approaches shall be employed in combating the dreaded disease with focus on the family as the basic social unit.
The campaign shall be carried out to all institutions such as schools, workplaces and training centers.
Availability of contraceptive devises will be encouraged on all entertainment establishments and its workers to avail of regular STI screening and medical examination.
Once put into effect as a city law, the city will strictly impose a no hiring policy on minors and strengthen the local STI and HIV/Aids council. (PIA-LOL)