The event, held under the theme ‘Respect Rights, Aim to End AIDS’, took place at the Chartered Bank intersection, starting at 5pm.
The event was organised in collaboration with the Life Home Project Foundation, Phuket City Municipality and various network partners. The event highlighted global efforts to achieve the United Nations’ target of ending AIDS by 2030.
In his opening remarks, Mr Samawit emphasised the importance of collective action to combat stigma and discrimination while advancing prevention efforts.
Phuket Town Deputy Mayor Prasert Sinsaophak and Somsuay Kulrattanachot, Vice President of the Life Home Project, outlined the objectives of the event, stressing the importance of awareness campaigns in achieving a world free from AIDS.
The event was attended by heads of government agencies, local administrative officials, community leaders, medical personnel, village health volunteers and other guests. Activities included educational campaigns, community engagement initiatives, and symbolic displays of solidarity.
December 1 has been recognized globally as ‘World AIDS Day’ since its inception by the World Health Organization (WHO). It serves as an annual reminder to advocate for HIV prevention, support people living with HIV, and combat the stigma associated with the condition.
The ‘Red Ribbon’, the universal symbol of solidarity with people living with HIV and AIDS, featured prominently throughout the event as a testament to the commitment to inclusivity and unity.
In their support for making sex work legal, Patong Mayor Chalermsak Maneesri and his sister Deputy Mayor Lalita both agreed that health issues were their greatest concern.
Patong Mayor Chalermsak told The Phuket News in August, “I believe legalisation would lead to better control and safety for both sex workers and tourists. It will help track and elevate safety and security and bring more sex workers into the system for proper health checks and protection measures.”
Deputy Mayor Lalita noted, “In 2022 there were 5,542 known HIV cases in Phuket, with 714 in Patong. In 2023, that number grew to 5,922 cases in Phuket, with 785 in Patong. This year there are 6,283 known HIV cases in Phuket, with 822 in Patong.
“Seeing these numbers constantly increasing makes me worry,” Deputy Mayor Lalita said.