Miss Universe 2015 Pia Wurtzbach comes to Cebu to launch a new Loveyourself site in Lapu-Lapu City.

Why Jem by LoveYourself is a Beacon of Hope in Cebu
Lapu-Lapu City, Cebu - On July 13, 2024, LoveYourself, Inc. proudly unveiled its second community center in Cebu, Jem by LoveYourself, marking a significant milestone in the fight against HIV in the Philippines. Located in the bustling Mactan Town Center, this new hub is designed to provide essential HIV-related services, including free education, counseling, screening, and treatment programs, while also offering a cozy neighborhood salon and spa for basic skincare, hair styling, and slimming services.
The grand opening event was a resounding success, drawing in a crowd of supporters and notable personalities. Mr. Gay World Philippines First Runner-Up, Bench Ortiz, hosted the lively program, setting a celebratory tone for the day. The highlight of the event was a ribbon-cutting ceremony led by LoveYourself Ambassador and Miss Universe 2015, Pia Wurtzbach, alongside Lapu-Lapu City councilors Hon. Annabeth Cuizon and Hon. Emilio Galaroza.
A Message of Hope and Advocacy
Pia Wurtzbach, known as the leading HIV awareness advocate in the country, delivered a heartfelt speech emphasizing the critical role of safe spaces like Jem by LoveYourself. She highlighted the need for more places where people can feel secure and supported, access vital services without fear of stigma, and raise awareness about preventing the spread of AIDS and treating people with HIV.
A Community Effort
Mitch Paca, the hub manager for LoveYourself Cebu, expressed immense pride in the new facility. He noted that Love Yourself White House might not be accessible to many, especially if they live near or on Mactan Island, and said they were happy to finally open a center for the residents of Lapu-Lapu City.
Comprehensive Services
Jem by LoveYourself serves as a satellite clinic for LoveYourself White House, making HIV-related services more accessible for those in or near Lapu-Lapu City. The center is designed as a safe space where individuals can receive free condoms and lubes, get educated on various HIV prevention methods, undergo counseling and screening for HIV, and access treatment programs. The center also plans to expand its services to include trans health-related support in the future.
The supplemental salon and spa services add a unique touch, mirroring the model of the LoveYourself White House, which also functions as a café. These additional services aim to draw in more community members, offering them a welcoming and supportive environment.
Grand Opening Highlights
The opening ceremony included:
- A blessing ceremony with local councilors
- A press conference and guided tours of the facility
- Light refreshments featuring beloved local delicacies
A Growing Movement
LoveYourself, Inc., driven by a dedicated community of volunteers, continues to advocate for the provision and promotion of sexual, mental, and trans health services central to one's self-worth. With several community centers around the Philippines, the organization provides HIV testing, treatment, and prevention, peer-led support groups, and gender-affirming hormone therapy.
For more information and to stay updated on future events, follow LoveYourself through their official channels:
- Website: [loveyourself.ph](www.loveyourse...)
- Facebook: [LoveYourself White House]( / loveyourselfwhitehouse )
- Instagram: [@loveyourself.cebu]( / loveyourself.cebu )
- Twitter: [@LoveYourselfCEB]( / loveyourselfceb )
#LoveYourselfPH #JemByLoveYourself #HIVAwareness #CommunityCare #LapuLapuCity #HealthAndWellness