José Rizal University Becomes the First School to Formalize an HIV Healthcare Partnership with LoveYourself Inc.
On May 11, 2026, José Rizal University officially signed a Memorandum of Agreement with LoveYourself Inc., becoming the first academic institution to formally institutionalize a partnership with the organization for HIV Testing and healthcare initiatives within the university community.
This milestone is the result of more than a year of student-led persistence, collaboration, and commitment to advancing accessible healthcare for Rizalians.
In January 2025, the JRU Central Student Council pioneered the university’s first administration-recognized HIV Testing initiative. What began as a bold proposal required extensive consultations with various university offices to address concerns, establish safeguards, and ensure that the initiative would uphold student welfare, confidentiality, and dignity.
Through continuous dialogue and collaboration, the initiative gained institutional support and opened a new chapter for student-centered healthcare in the university.
With the support of LoveYourself Inc., the university sustained its advocacy by conducting quarterly HIV Testing programs throughout the following academic year. These initiatives provided accessible and compassionate healthcare services while strengthening awareness on HIV prevention, responsible health practices, and the importance of eliminating stigma through education and empathy.
As the student council administration approached its conclusion, the goal became clear: to ensure that the advocacy would continue beyond a single term of leadership. The JRU Central Student Council then submitted an Executive Resolution seeking the institutionalization of LoveYourself Inc. as the official HIV Testing partner of the university — transforming a student initiative into a lasting institutional commitment.
Today, that vision has officially become a reality.
The Memorandum of Agreement signing signifies more than a formal partnership. It reflects the university’s commitment to creating safer spaces, expanding healthcare accessibility, and recognizing that student welfare includes proactive and inclusive health services that respond to the realities faced by today’s youth.
This milestone also serves as a reminder that meaningful change becomes possible when students, administrators, and advocacy organizations work together with shared purpose and courage.
As one community, José Rizal University and LoveYourself Inc. hope this initiative inspires more schools, universities, and institutions across the country to strengthen healthcare accessibility, normalize conversations on HIV awareness, and build partnerships that protect and empower the youth.
Healthcare should never be distant, stigmatized, or inaccessible.
May this milestone become not only a celebration for the Rizalian community but also a call for more institutions to lead with compassion, act with courage, and champion initiatives that place people and welfare at the center of education.
Husay Rizal.