Philippine E-Journals

Current reported HIV infection rates among Filipino men may be relatively low, but so is HIV testing, a necessary behavioral step for determining one’s serostatus. Using data from a nationally representative sample of N = 3,519 sexually active Filipino men ages 15 to 54 who participated in the National Demographic & Health Survey (2003), we explored HIV testing as a sexual health behavior. Results indicated that overall testing rate was extremely low (4.7%). HIV tests were more commonly taken as part of a requirement than as voluntary, self-initiated action. One out of four tested Filipino men failed to return for their test results. Other sexual health behaviors like recent condom use were associated with having been tested, unlike HIV-related cognitions. Among those never been tested, half reported wanting to undergo HIV testing, although many did not know where the test was available. The significance of HIV testing for personal and public health, as well as implications for psychological research and practice, are discussed.