Barangay leaders in Bongabong, Oriental Mindoro, strengthened their knowledge of gender sensitivity and laws protecting individuals against sexual harassment and gender-based violence during a training program conducted by Mindoro State University (MinSU)-Bongabong Campus (MBC) on November 11, 2026.
Held at the Barangay Labasan Covered Court, the activity, titled “Empowering Barangay Leaders for Safe, Inclusive, and Gender-Responsive Communities,” was organized through the University's Women, Gender, and Development (WGAD) Office of MBC to equip community leaders with the knowledge and skills to promote safe and inclusive communities.
The training opened with a session on gender sensitivity facilitated by Mr. Deo B. Evora, WGAD-MBC Secretariat and Instructor I. The discussion tackled the importance of understanding gender differences, challenging gender stereotypes, recognizing discrimination, and promoting equal treatment and opportunities regardless of gender.
In the afternoon, participants learned about the Anti-Sexual Harassment Act of 1995 (Republic Act No. 7877), with Mr. Jamael G. Bantog, Deputy Director of WGAD-MBC, discussing the law's provisions and the responsibilities of individuals and institutions in preventing and addressing sexual harassment.
This was followed by a discussion on the Safe Spaces Act (Republic Act No. 11313), led by Ms. Gladys C. Velasquez, WGAD-MBC Secretariat and Instructor. The session covered gender-based sexual harassment in public spaces, including streets, public utility vehicles, workplaces, and educational and training institutions, as well as the forms of prohibited acts and the corresponding responsibilities under the law.
The discussions emphasized that preventing harassment and gender-based violence requires not only awareness of existing laws but also the willingness of community leaders to respond appropriately to complaints, protect affected individuals, and help ensure that violations are addressed.
The program concluded with an open forum, allowing participants to raise questions and seek clarification on the topics discussed, followed by the awarding of certificates and tokens of appreciation.
The initiative is part of a series of similar activities to be conducted across MinSU campuses. The Victoria (Main) Campus and Calapan Campus are set to hold their respective activities on November 12 and 13, extending the university's gender and development advocacy to more communities.
Through these initiatives, MinSU continues to strengthen its partnership with local communities, recognizing barangay leaders as frontline partners in advancing gender equality, preventing harassment, and building communities where every person can live with safety, dignity, and respect. (jdtdc)
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