𝐒𝐏𝐂-𝐂𝐑𝐂𝐘 𝐥𝐞𝐚𝐝𝐬 𝐖𝐨𝐫𝐥𝐝 𝐀𝐈𝐃𝐒 𝐃𝐚𝐲; 𝐡𝐨𝐧𝐨𝐫𝐬 𝐥𝐢𝐯𝐞𝐬 𝐥𝐨𝐬𝐭 𝐭𝐡𝐫𝐨𝐮𝐠𝐡 𝐚𝐰𝐚𝐫𝐞𝐧𝐞𝐬𝐬 𝐝𝐫𝐢𝐯𝐞, 𝐜𝐚𝐧𝐝𝐥𝐞-𝐥𝐢𝐠𝐡𝐭𝐢𝐧𝐠

In line with the 38th World AIDS Day, the San Pedro College – College Red Cross Youth (SPC-CRCY) spearheaded a campus-wide awareness event on Dec. 1, bringing together student leaders, clubs, and organizations to strengthen HIV and AIDS awareness.

With the theme “Serenity: From a Single Ember, Courage Became a Beacon,” the program focused on HIV/AIDS education and substance-abuse prevention, highlighting how small acts of awareness can spark broader movements of empathy and solidarity.

Keynote speaker Michael Diacosta underscored the urgent need to equip young people with accurate knowledge to help prevent sexually transmitted diseases (STDs), stressing that misinformation continues to be one of the strongest drivers of stigma and risky behaviors.

He also discussed current challenges, ongoing stigma, and the global progress made in HIV treatment and prevention efforts, emphasizing that while progress is significant, sustained public awareness remains essential.

An open forum followed, providing students a safe and supportive space to raise concerns and clarify misconceptions.

As the program came to a close, a prayer was offered for individuals who have lost their lives to HIV/AIDS and for those currently living with the condition, offering a moment of unity and remembrance.

Students then gathered for a candle-lighting ceremony — symbolizing remembrance, solidarity, and hope for a future free from stigma and discrimination.

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