In another development that should highlight the internal problems of the Network of Positive Advocates of the Philippines, Inc. (also known as the Network Plus Philippines or N+), eight Visayas-based organizations decided to “break away from the network” as it, instead, eyes to independently “embark on a new journey”.
The withdrawal statement was actually signed by 10 HIV organizations from the Visayas, but only eight were “registered” as “members” of N+. In total, according to Outrage Magazine’s source, 13 Visayas-based HIV organizations supported the separation from N+, stressing the severity of the discontent with the Metro Manila-based network.
The withdrawal statement was signed by: United Western Visayas, Inc.; Red Seahorse; Crossbreeds Plus Network, Inc.; Gangway ng Pulang Agila; iSupport Bohol; KAAGBai PH, Inc.; Positing Laso – Boracay; REHAG; Oponganon Plus; and Cebu Blood Family.
Earlier, the former chairperson quit his post after only two weeks, alleging that N+ lacks independence, is grossly mismanaged (and has issues with ineptitude, and malversation within), and has a “willingness to turn a blind eye to these issues for the sake of maintaining a positive public image.”
In the cluster’s statement of withdrawal that also backed the former chairperson’s decision to ditch the network, they stated that there are issues that they have been “grappling with for some time: the direction of our organization, the culture within, and the issues that have been overlooked for the sake of maintaining an image.”
“Our mission has always been centered on genuinely representing and advocating for the needs of the PLHIV community. However, we have found ourselves straying from this path, with the focus shifting more towards seeking funds rather than prioritizing the needs of our community. This shift has caused us distress and led us to question our place within (N+),” the withdrawal statement read in part.
With this development, N+ – which claims to be composed of 40 organizations led by persons living with HIV – can no longer claim to be representative of Visayan PLHIVs. – WITH STEPHEN CHRISTIAN P. QUILACIO
