In commemoration of World AIDS Day on December 1, 2024, student volunteers from the BSIT program of Isabela State University – Santiago Extension organized an HIV/AIDS Awareness Campaign on November 30, 2024, held at the Barangay Amphitheatre, Rizal, Santiago City, Isabela. 

The outreach program aimed to educate the local community of Barangay Rizal and student attendees about HIV/AIDS prevention, testing, and care, as well as to reduce the stigma surrounding the disease.

Experts and HIV Focal Persons from the City Health Office shared valuable insights on the importance of safe sex practices, HIV prevention methods, and available support services for individuals living with HIV and AIDS. Moreover, the City Health Office also conducted free HIV/AIDS testing for all participants and attendees.

Aside from students and the local community, key personnel from the ISU Santiago Extension participated in the event, including Dr. Melito Mayormente, Campus Coordinator, and Mr. David Ling-oyan, OSA Coordinator, as well as Ms. Princess Jade Lopez, Gender and Development (GAD) Focal Person, and Ms. Debie-Lyn P. Dolojan, Campus Nurse.

This outreach program featured informative discussions on HIV/AIDS, its impact, and how individuals can protect themselves and others. It also highlighted the importance of testing, early diagnosis, and the availability of treatment. Attendees were encouraged to dispel myths and misconceptions surrounding HIV/AIDS and to adopt a compassionate approach toward those living with the virus.