The Quality Uptake and Improvements in Lifesaving Treatment Services Awards, better known as the QUILTS Awards, celebrates its third year of recognizing Philippine organizations and health facilities for their excellence in HIV treatment in the country. The awards ceremony was conducted last May 19, 2024, Sunday, at the San Jose Del Monte Convention Center, Bulacan, in time for the country’s commemoration of the International Candlelight Memorial which happens every third Sunday of May each year.
Meeting Targets and Maintaining Epidemic Control (EpiC) Philippines Project Director Teresita Bagasao, AIDS Society of the Philippines (ASP) President Irene Fonacier-Fellizar, San Jose Del Monte City Health Office’s City Health Physician Dr. Lyden Fereni Camigla, M.D. and City Health Officer Dr. Roselle Tolentino, M.D. served as panelists for the press conference that preceded the awards program.
“We want to celebrate the accomplishments of our partner facilities and community organizations that are making a difference in the lives of people living with HIV and those affected by it, so they can continue to live meaningful, productive lives,” said Bagasao.
Joint United Nations Programme on HIV/AIDS (UNAIDS) Philippines Country Director Dr. Louie Ocampo, Department of Health (DOH) Secretary Dr. Teodoro Herbosa, and City of San Jose Del Monte (CSJDM) Mayor Arthur Robes, joined Bagasao during the awarding ceremony as key speakers, sharing insights into the HIV situation in the country.
“It is important that we highlight tonight that accomplishments are not just mere numbers but are lives that we continue to support, ensuring that they continue living healthy and productive lives. Beyond the plaques, the lives that we save from preventable AIDS-related illnesses are the true QUILTS Awards,” said Herbosa.
The QUILTS Awards is an annual event started by the EpiC project as part of the USAID and the President of the United States’ Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief (PEPFAR). It is spearheaded by FHI360 and is in collaboration with the ASP and UNAIDS Philippines.
