The large number of HIV/AIDS cases occurring among overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) is a threat to a key source of foreign exchange for the nation, according to new health department data. OFWs represent 35 percent of all the nation's HIV cases and 42 percent of new cases recorded in 2006. "It is a must that we act now because OFWs are regarded as modern-day heroes and are major contributors to the country's gross domestic product and economic stability in general," said Francisco Duque, health secretary. The department is now providing free antiretrovirals to 241 HIV patients; that number is expected to increase as more patients register with the government, Duque said.

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