Pia Wurtzbach hits PDEA for releasing sensitive info on drug suspect: ‘Living with HIV is not a punishment’
Known for her advocacy on awareness about the Human Immunodeficiency Virus/Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome (HIV/AIDS), Miss Universe 2015 Pia Wurtzbach did not hold back from defending those who are living with the dreaded disease, while also speaking for the LGBT community.
This was after the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) released the mugshots and sensitive information of eleven men arrested in a drug bust operation, in an upscale hotel in Bonifacio Global City, Taguig on Sunday. In a news conference, PDEA announced that one of the suspects is HIV-positive.
READ: PDEA raid catches 11 in drug-fueled sex orgy
The release of information stirred controversy in social media, particularly about confidentiality issues and the stigma on AIDS patients.
“Was this really necessary? I understand that what the men were supposedly doing was illegal and they should face legal consequences. But there was absolutely no need to expose and publicly shame them,” the beauty queen wrote about the agency through an Instagram post on Wednesday.
Article continues after this advertisement“What has been done has not only traumatized the men that were involved; it has also worsened the HIV situation in the Philippines,” Wurtzbach explained.
Article continues after this advertisement“Because of what PDEA and the news outlet have done, some people are now associating drugs and immorality with being gay. It’s ridiculous,” the beauty queen added. She also cited Republic Act 8504 which protects the confidentiality of one’s HIV status.
Wurtzbach further said that the country has “already taken small steps forward to improve acceptance, tolerance and understanding” of the LGBT community and those afflicted with the disease. “We cannot take big steps back,” she said.
“Being gay is not a crime! Living with HIV is not a punishment!” Wurtzbach declared. She then asked her fellow citizens to not be judgmental on people who identify themselves as gay, or living with the disease.
In closing, and to comfort the LGBT community, she said, “We’ll win this.” JB
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