04/03/2026
HIV AWARENESS
Theme: BREAK THE SILENCE: TALK ABOUT HIV
Venue: Mandaue City College
Date: February 14, 2026
Organizer: Cebu Heritage Lions Club in partnership with Love Yourself Foundation
Participants: Students from Mandaue City College
Project Chairperson: Don Marc Mansueto
Project Category: YOUTH
On Valentine’s Day, February 14, 2026, the Cebu Heritage Lions Club, in partnership with Love Yourself Foundation, successfully conducted an HIV Awareness Program entitled “Break the Silence: Talk About HIV” at Mandaue City College.
The event gathered approximately 700 students, making the youth sector the primary audience. Given the increasing number of HIV cases reported nationwide, this initiative was both timely and essential. The youth were highly engaged and receptive, recognizing the importance of being educated about HIV prevention, testing, and stigma reduction.
Aligned with the global advocacy programs of Lions Clubs International, the project aimed to:
• Educate students about HIV, its causes, transmission, prevention, and treatment
• Raise awareness about the rising HIV cases among the youth
• Encourage responsible decision-making and safe practices
• Promote regular HIV testing and consultation
• Help eliminate stigma and discrimination toward individuals living with HIV
• Equip educators with knowledge on how to support students who may be affected
Highlights
• A knowledgeable and well-informed speaker from the Love Yourself Foundation delivered an educational discussion on HIV awareness and prevention.
• Free HIV testing and consultation were provided to students on-site.
• Condoms were distributed to promote safe and responsible behavior.
• An interactive Question and Answer portion with prizes encouraged student participation.
• The Cebu Heritage Lions Club donated a printer to Mandaue City College as part of its support to the institution.
• Food was provided for facilitators and faculty members who supported the event.
• The program was graced by the First Vice-District Governor, Richard Ng, who showed strong support for the cause.
Impact
The HIV Awareness Program was a meaningful and productive Valentine’s Day activity that emphasized love, responsibility, and health awareness. By breaking the silence and encouraging open discussions about HIV, the event empowered young individuals with accurate information and access to free testing services.
Through collaboration, education, and community support, the project successfully contributed to reducing stigma and promoting a healthier, more informed youth community.
Indeed, it was a successful and impactful initiative that reflected the commitment of the Cebu Heritage Lions Club to serve and uplift the youth sector.