Current Status of Tuberculosis and Human Immunodeficiency Virus Co-Infection in the Philippines: A Narrative Review

Tuberculosis (TB) and human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) co-infection remains a major public health concern globally and in the Philippines. The country continues to face a high burden of TB, multidrug- and rifampicin-resistant TB (MDR/RR-TB), HIV, and HIV-associated TB. Since HIV increases the risk of TB and TB worsens HIV outcomes, co-infection hinders progress toward the End TB Strategy and the UNAIDS 95-95-95 targets. This review summarizes the current knowledge on the epidemiology, prevention, and treatment of TB-HIV co-infection with a focus on the Philippine setting. Key challenges include socioeconomic barriers to care and rising drug resistance. In addition, the lack of an integrated TB-HIV data system disrupts continuity of care and weakens surveillance. Closing these gaps requires a coordinated national response that integrates effective policy with active community engagement. Research-driven and locally adapted strategies will be essential to bring the Philippines closer to its elimination goals.