Interior design artists to renovate HIV shelter

TO foster a sense of safety and a supportive environment, young Filipino artists have spearheaded a transformative project to renovate the facilities of the Positive Action Foundation Philippines Inc. (Pafpi), a nongovernment organization that provides shelter to and assists individuals with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV).

Located in San Andres Bukid in Malate, Manila, the beacon of hope provides aid and access to medication and care services for persons living with HIV (PLHIVs). The affected families are likewise part of the plan.

The rehabilitation program Project Alpas champions to restore Pafpi into a dedicated space for comfort and security through innovative interiors. It integrates features to enhance cleanliness, hygiene and sanitary stations. It likewise incorporates privacy screens and soundproofing measures to uphold confidentiality during sensitive conversations.

The initiative was headlined by the Interior Design students from the De La Salle-College of Saint Benilde (DLS-CSB) School of Environment and Design (SED). To facilitate community empowerment, the students mounted bazaars and merchandise sales of basic shirts, lanyards, tote bags, and stickers to finance their renovation strategies.

They also organized fundraising events and gigs that featured singers and artists, namely Janine, Syd Hartha, Deny, Jikamarie and Shanne Dandan. They likewise held learning campaigns to raise awareness about HIV and its prevention.

«Project Alpas hopes to abolish discrimination among PLHIVs while it encourages candid HIV screenings for an unrestrained community,» the team said.

The initiative is composed of Athina Ababafha, Kristel Azada, Lyka Bayoca, Kaia Mikaela Berena, Lord Andrei Colby Braga, Mary Margareth Calvo, Lianna Eunice Chua, Sophia Katrina Chua, Shanne Glyndel Dandan, Cheska Domingo, Hateya Christiane Damole, Lyra Gaye dela Rosa and Rhoda Lorie Dumaligan.

They are rounded out by Maria Rocio Gonzales, Bea Victoria Negre, Angela Palagnas, Miguel Angelo Palma, Edrian Glen Propalde, Frances Allysa Ramos, Aliya Josianne Raymundo, Adrian Kenneth Salazar, Krishaine Serrano, Manuel Sy 4th, Derick Vigilla, Caitlin Villacruz, Alexandra Sophia Villanueva and