At 17, Krang Martir faced a daunting experience when he decided to get tested for HIV after being abused and raped by a trusted friend.
However, the law at the time did not allow minors to access HIV services without parental consent, leaving him feeling alone and scared.
The law made him wait, a wait that could have cost him everything.
Fortunately, a clinic worker helped him get tested, which led to treatment and ultimately changed his life.
Today, thanks to the passage of Republic Act 11166 in 2018, young people in the Philippines can access HIV testing and treatment without parental consent from the age of 15.
This landmark law has not only changed policy but has also paved the way for a more inclusive and compassionate HIV response.
Author's summary: UNAIDS helps draft Philippines' HIV laws.