Segundo Matias Jr. launches 'Stigma: Mga Batang Poz 2' highlighting rising HIV cases among women

Palanca Award-winning author Segundo Matias Jr. launched "Stigma: Mga Batang Poz 2" on November 28, a sequel to his 2018 novel "Mga Batang Poz."

The new novel introduces Melody, a pregnant 15-year-old living with HIV, inspired by a real-life encounter, and highlights the increasing number of women contracting HIV in the Philippines.

Melody finds a support group in "Pete's Corner," an online community for young people with HIV, and her character connects the stories of the original four HIV-positive teens.

Matias stated that Melody's character challenges the misconception that HIV primarily affects males.

Dr. Rosanna Ditangco of the Research Institute for Tropical Medicine noted that while fewer women get HIV compared to males, the number is increasing, leading to infections in newborns.

The book aims to reduce HIV stigma among young Filipinos and addresses available treatments and the experiences of women living with the virus.

The launch event on November 28 included discussions with HIV professionals and advocates like Dr. Ditangco and Mr. Danvic Rosadino.