Dating apps linked to rising HIV cases in Baguio

BAGUIO CITY, Philippines — Online dating applications have been identified as a key factor behind the growing number of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) cases in this city, with health officials warning that digital platforms are making it easier for young people to engage in risky sexual behavior.

During a recent City Council consultation, officials from the City Health Services Office (CHSO) and the Department of Health-Cordillera said the increasing use of dating apps has accelerated connections between sexual partners, raising the risk of HIV transmission when protective measures are not observed.

Dr. Clement Bilalat of the CHSO said Baguio has recorded 800 HIV cases, with 70 percent involving local residents.

Men account for 94 percent of infections. The highest number of cases is concentrated among ages 25 to 34, followed by ages 15 to 24.

Darwin Babon, DOH-Cordillera HIV program coordinator, cited a 2022 study showing that many infections were linked to casual encounters arranged through online platforms.

While stressing that dating apps do not cause HIV, Babon said their widespread use in urban areas such as Baguio and La Trinidad town has increased access to potential sexual partners, particularly among younger users.

Baguio currently accounts for 56.3 percent of all recorded HIV cases in the Cordilleras.

Health officials said the figure reflects the city’s aggressive testing and detection efforts, and called for expanded access to discreet testing services, self-testing kits, and stronger prevention campaigns to curb the spread of the virus.