USTP advocates for Gender-Inclusive Awareness and Empowerment
By Randulf C. Doria, USTP System STRATCOMM
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In celebration of National Women’s Month, the University of Science and Technology of Southern Philippines (USTP), through its Extension and Community Relations Division (ECRD) in USTP Cagayan de Oro (USTP CDO), organized the Capacity Building on Gender and Development for USTP personnel and the GAD Focal Point System on March 6 – 7, 2025 at the Performing Arts Theater (PAT), Engineering Building, USTP CDO. This event aimed to improve awareness, knowledge, and application of gender-responsive policies and practices within the university.
Day 1: Laying the Foundation for Gender Awareness
The event began with an opening remarks highlighting the significance of gender development in fostering an inclusive and empowered USTP community.
Dr. Maria Teresa M. Fajardo, Director of the Extension and Community Relations Division (ECRD) and Gender and Development Focal Person of USTP CDO, shared an inspirational message. She emphasized the significance of gender inclusivity in building a more equitable society within USTP and beyond.
Dr. Maria Teresa M. Fajardo, Director of the Extension and Community Relations Division (ECRD) and Gender and Development Focal Person of USTP CDO
Key Discussions:
Dr. Editha D. Naldo, Social Welfare Officer IV, RSW, DM, provided an insightful presentation on Basic GAD Concepts. She offered an overview of Gender Sensitivity and Gender-Fair Language and underscored the necessity of inclusive communication in promoting gender equality.
Atty. Hevah N. Salic, Attorney IV of the Commission on Human Rights – Region 10, discussed Gender and Development Laws. She stressed how important legal frameworks are to uphold human rights and guarantee gender equality.
Atty. Hevah N. Salic (right) and Dr. Editha D. Naldo (left)
Day 2: Advancing Gender-Responsive Practices
The second day focused on the practical application of gender mainstreaming strategies within academic and institutional settings.
Key Discussions:
Atty. Khristine Kay M. Lazarito-Calingin, a member of the Regional Development Council Region X – Regional Gender and Development Committee (RDC-X RGADC) and Regional Pool of Gender and Development Resource Persons (RPGRP), led a session on Gender Analysis and its Praxis. She highlighted the importance of promoting a gender-responsive community.
Ms. Ma. Estrella Luz R. Peñaloza, OIC-Chief Economic Development Specialist, talked about Gender Mainstreaming and emphasized its crucial role in integrating gender viewpoints into policies.
Atty. Khristine Kay M. Lazarito-Calingin (right) and Ms. Ma. Estrella Luz R. Peñaloza (left)
Commitment to Gender Equality
The Capacity Building Program on Gender and Development for USTP personnel and the GAD Focal Point System effectively equipped participants with crucial knowledge and insights to promote a more gender-inclusive environment within the university. This initiative reinforces USTP’s commitment to promoting diversity, equity, and inclusivity, ensuring that gender-responsive policies and practices thrive across all campuses.
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