“Need to Know:” Correcting misinformation on HIV

CHEERS TO GMA News Online’s “Need to Know” video explainer that debunked myths surrounding Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV), emphasizing that contracting the virus is not a death sentence. 

GMA published the report on its Youtube channel following the Department of Health’s (DOH) call to declare a public health emergency due to the rising cases of HIV in the country. The media reported the latest data released by the DOH for the first quarter of 2025 that showed 5,101 confirmed cases—meaning an average of 57 new cases were recorded daily from January to March. Health Secretary Teodoro Herbosa added that there was a 500 percent increase in cases for individuals aged 15 to 25. 

Correcting misconceptions, misinformation

Anchored by Joseph Morong, GMA presented an 11-minute video explainer in vertical format for mobile device users, accommodating the required length of valued information and providing what may be the most thorough backgrounder on HIV done on mass media. 

Viewers can pause the video to take screenshots of graphics containing both the myth and fact, which could be used for reference and to promote public awareness. Morong’s discussion incorporated interviews with Dr. Deano Reyes, a physician specializing in sexual health, and Dr. Vinn Pagtakhan, executive director of an organization promoting public awareness on HIV, Love Yourself.

The explainer went back to the basics to include the record of HIV figures, noting the factors that contribute to its rise including the lack of awareness and the stigma of having it.

The video followed with the much-needed debunking of common myths. Using text and graphics, Morong presented eight misconceptions using one visual frame for each myth, while delivering voice-overs for the factual statements. 

In particular, the explainer corrected false information about the mode of transmission, particularly public perception that HIV is spread only among homosexual men. Reyes clarified that anyone engaging in unprotected sex is vulnerable to HIV contamination.

Differentiating HIV from AIDS, the explainer tracked in detail the progression of the disease as it weakens the immune system, and the co-morbidities that can develop in an individual who is already afflicted with the advanced stage of AIDS – which altogether eventually leads to a patient’s demise.  

Morong stressed that contrary to popular belief, preventive measures are not expensive. Condoms and pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) are offered free in most government-run HIV treatment hubs. Pagtakhan added that Love Yourself offers free HIV testing, and that his organization creates treatment plans based on the results.

Morong talked about encouraging findings that regular antiviral treatment eventually causes the decrease of a person living with HIV’s (PLHIV) viral load. The virus becomes undetectable, which means it is no longer transmissible.

Morong reserved the last spot on his list of myths for what may carry heaviest mental and emotional toll—that PLHIV cannot experience genuine love. 

Reyes and Pagtakhan said many PLHIVs experience and enjoy fulfilling careers and relationships, highlighting how understanding, support and encouragement can help to break the stigma and discrimination that afflict them. On a positive note, Morong ended with a call for compassion as central to the fight central to the fight against HIV.

GMA’s video explainer exemplifies television’s capacity for public service. Discussing a difficult and sensitive subject, the report delivered information about HIV more effectively than if it had been given only by doctors and experts alone. It helped to have a broadcast journalist who has established a reputation for excellence in journalism, oriented to delivering news that the public needs to know.