The United States government, through the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID), has partnered with Ayala Healthcare Holdings, Inc. (AC Health) to expand access to stigma-free HIV care and prevention services in the Philippines, addressing one of the fastest-growing HIV epidemics in Asia. The initiative, launched on November 26, is funded by the U.S. President’s Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief (PEPFAR) and aims to enhance the role of the private sector in providing lifesaving HIV services.

This collaboration will focus on innovative approaches such as online health services and the direct delivery of pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP), a medication that effectively prevents HIV transmission when taken as prescribed. The partnership highlights the U.S. government’s commitment to leveraging private sector resources to combat the HIV epidemic globally. By working together, USAID and AC Health aim to reduce stigma, expand access to care, and amplify the message of “U=U,” or “Undetectable equals Untransmittable.”

U.S. Ambassador to the Philippines MaryKay Carlson emphasized the significance of the partnership during the launch. “This agreement will harness the strengths of collaboration and private sector innovation to address the HIV epidemic. The United States remains committed to supporting a future grounded in compassion, understanding, and improved healthcare access for all,” she said.

AC Health will utilize its ecosystem, including the KonsultaMD telehealth platform, Generika Drugstore chain, and Healthway Medical Network, to integrate HIV services into local networks. The initiative will include onboarding health service providers to KonsultaMD, expanding HIV awareness and screening services to schools and workplaces, and increasing the availability of PrEP and other essential medications through AC Health’s distribution channels.

USAID’s contributions will include technical assistance to Healthway Medical Network, support for community engagement, and training for healthcare providers. The agency will also introduce private sector models for HIV service delivery and distribute free HIV self-testing kits to enhance telehealth access and community outreach.

Fernando Zobel de Ayala, Chairman of AC Health, reaffirmed the organization’s dedication to bridging healthcare gaps. “Our mission at AC Health is to make quality and affordable healthcare accessible to more Filipinos. Through this partnership with USAID, we are equipping our teams to ensure critical HIV prevention and testing services reach communities nationwide,” he said.

The partnership was launched ahead of World AIDS Day on December 1, celebrated under the theme “Collective Action: Sustain and Accelerate HIV Progress.” This theme underscores the importance of uniting public and private sectors, community organizations, and global partners in building an inclusive response to HIV.

Since 2020, USAID has contributed more than Php2 billion ($34.7 million) through PEPFAR to support the Philippines’ HIV response, cementing its role as one of the largest bilateral donors in this effort.