11/05/2026
๐๐๐๐ | In support of the advocacy to raise awareness on HIV and AIDS, the Polytechnic College of Botolan actively participated in the International AIDS Candlelight Memorial Activity held on May 6, 2026, at the PCB Theater.
The event was spearheaded by the Provincial Department of Health Office Team headed by Dr. Noel C. Bueno and Nurse Rachelle E. Pascual, HIV Program Coordinator, in coordination with the Botolan Rural Health Unit, with the support of the institution through the Office of Student Affairs and Services headed by Ms. Arianne Joy M. Limbag, OSAS Coordinator, together with Nurse Gina Acuna, College Nurse. The activity served as a meaningful platform to strengthen awareness on HIV and AIDS, honor individuals affected by the disease, and promote compassion, understanding, and solidarity within the community.
The program was hosted by Mr. Jade Leonerio and formally opened with an invocation led by Ms. Leigh Anne Marie B. Diago, followed by the welcome remarks of Ms. Antoinette โBingโ Ladores, Executive Secretary of the Mayorโs Office, marking the official start of the event.
Inspirational messages were delivered by Maโam Brenda Dimain of the Infectious Diseases Cluster, Provincial Health Office; Dr. Marion Sengco of Botolan RHU; Dr. Joy P. Cortez, PCB School Administrator; and Dr. Mary Grace S. Manangan, College President. Their messages emphasized the importance of awareness, inclusivity, compassion, and collective action in addressing HIV and AIDS-related concerns within the community.
An informative HIV 101 discussion was facilitated by Ms. Janet Miclat, RN, from the Balin Kalinga Treatment Hub of President Ramon Magsaysay Memorial Hospital. She discussed the common symptoms of HIV, methods of prevention, and the significance of early testing and proper education in reducing stigma and misinformation surrounding the disease.
One of the most moving parts of the program was the testimony shared by Mr. P, who courageously recounted his journey as a person living with HIV. He shared the struggles he encountered, the challenges he overcame, and how resilience and support helped him navigate life with hope and determination. His story served as a powerful reminder of the importance of empathy, acceptance, and understanding.
Simultaneous HIV testing was conducted by the RHU staff to encourage responsible health practices and early detection. At the same time, a slogan-making and poster-making contest was held at the PCB Library to engage students in spreading awareness through creativity and advocacy.
The winners of the Slogan-Making Contest were:
Champion โ Ruth Doble (BCAED 2A)
1st Runner-up โ Jeremy Mangohig (BEED 2A)
2nd Runner-up โ Jake Cruzado (BEED 2A)
Consolation Prize โ Kenneth Diohen (BCAED 3A)
For the Poster-Making Contest, the winners were:
Champion โ Nathaniel Almandres (BSCS 1A)
1st Runner-up โ Krystel Eunice Basa (BCAED 2A)
2nd Runner-up โ Daxzane Rosendo (BEED 2A)
Consolation Prize โ Fernan Crisostomo (BCAED 3A)
Consolation Prize โ John Paul Pagaling (BSIS 1A)
The most meaningful part of the activity took place at the PCB Covered Court, where student leaders gathered for the Pledge of Commitment, prayer, and candlelighting ceremony. This solemn activity symbolized unity, remembrance, and the participantsโ commitment to promoting awareness, empathy, and support for individuals affected by HIV and AIDS.
The event concluded with the announcement of contest winners, followed by the closing remarks delivered by Mr. Jonathan Yambao, DMO IV of the Provincial Department of Health Office.