Rising HIV cases in the Philippines in 2025 demand urgent global attention.

HIV cases in the Philippines have surged dramatically, with 5101 new diagnoses reported in the first quarter of 2025-a 57% increase from the same period in 2024. Young individuals aged 15 to 34 years are the most affected, with 96% of new infections linked to sexual transmission. Alarmingly, there has also been a 12% rise in advanced HIV cases, reflecting delays in diagnosis and limited access to care. The country remains far from achieving UNAIDS 95-95-95 targets, with only 55% of people diagnosed, 66% on treatment and 40% achieving viral suppression. This letter calls for urgent public health action, including expanded testing, awareness campaigns, improved access to treatment and pre-exposure prophylaxis, and stronger surveillance systems. International collaboration is essential, and support from global health organisations is critical to reversing this trend and preventing wider regional consequences.