This World AIDS Day, Taguig City and LoveYourself are coming together for the Love Gala 2024 to celebrate hope and make a real difference. Themed “Eternal Elegance: A Night of a Timeless Love,” this year’s gala isn’t just about elegance—it’s about creating something truly impactful: a Youth Center in Taguig. This new space will offer young people the support they need with HIV education, prevention, and healthcare in a safe and welcoming environment.
Leading this mission is Miss Universe 2015 Pia Wurtzbach, a dedicated advocate for HIV/AIDS awareness. At the event, Pia is offering exclusive Miss Universe memorabilia for auction at the event. All proceeds will fund the Youth Center, strengthening efforts to support and educate young people affected by HIV. Pia’s commitment underscores the importance of the gala and the impact of collective action.
Collaborating with LoveYourself on this initiative is the city government of Taguig as a major partner to ensure that young people in the area have access to critical HIV services and care. Taguig already offers a range of support through its STI, HIV/AIDS Prevention and Control Program, including free HIV testing, group counseling, medication, and more. The new Youth Center will expand these essential services, breaking down stigma and giving young people a safe space where they can be healthy and informed.
With 58 new cases of HIV reported daily in the Philippines, according to Quarter 2 data from the Department of Health, the opening of this center comes at a crucial time as the country intensifies efforts to address the rising number of infections. With a network of 50 community centers, LoveYourself serves over 250,000 individuals with HIV testing annually, provides treatment to 15,000 clients, supports 30,000 people through PrEP, PEP, and STI management, and reaches millions through its awareness campaigns. This year’s gala is all about building on that commitment and celebrating those who have made it their mission to support this cause.
The Love Gala is also a chance to get involved in a meaningful way. By bidding on Pia’s auction items or donating to the cause, you can help create a brighter future for Filipino youth.
The Love Gala is made possible through the collaboration of key partners, including the City of Taguig, HIV advocacy groups, the Center for Advanced Dentistry, IBM in the Philippines, the Office of the First Lady, Tei Endencia, and Events by Ms. P. Each has played a vital role in bringing this event to life.