College students at Mindoro State University (MinSU) were urged to help build a safe and respectful learning environment during simultaneous orientations on laws against sexual harassment and gender-based misconduct across the University’s three campuses on October 19, 2026.
The activity, organized through the Women, Gender and Development (WGAD) Office, focused on Republic Act No. 7877, or the Anti-Sexual Harassment Act of 1995, and Republic Act No. 11313, or the Safe Spaces Act.
At the Victoria (Main) Campus, the orientation was held at the C.E. Cabanilla Gymnasium, with Ms. Christine Luzon-German, Assistant Professor and former WGAD Director, serving as resource speaker. Similar activities were conducted at the Calapan and Bongabong campuses.
During the discussion, Ms. German reminded students that knowing their rights also means knowing where to turn when those rights are compromised or violated. She explained the importance of approaching the appropriate University offices and personnel to report incidents of sexual harassment and seek assistance.
The discussion sought to reassure students that they do not have to deal with such situations alone and that seeking help is an important step toward addressing harassment.
Mr. Domenick Mortella, WGAD deputy director at the Victoria (Main) Campus, also called on students to become active partners of the University in upholding the rights and dignity of every member of the academic community.
“Hiniling ng Pamantasan, sa pamamagitan ng WGAD, na maging katuwang ang bawat estudyante sa pagsusulong ng isang institusyong ligtas at may paggalang sa karapatan ng bawat isa,” Mortella said.
He emphasized that every MinSUan should embody three core values: respect, courage, and compassion.
“Respeto sa hangganan ng bawat isa, sa karapatan ng bawat isa. Tapang na magsalita kung may nakita tayong maling gawain sa loob o labas man ng paaralan, at malasakit na tumulong sa taong nangangailangan ng tulong,” he added.
RA 7877 addresses sexual harassment in work, education, and training environments, particularly when a person in authority, influence, or moral ascendancy demands or solicits sexual favors. RA 11313, meanwhile, addresses gender-based sexual harassment in public spaces, online platforms, workplaces, and educational or training institutions.
The orientation aimed to help students recognize prohibited acts, understand their rights and responsibilities, and become familiar with the proper channels for reporting harassment.
Through the simultaneous activities, MinSU strengthened its commitment to gender equality, student welfare, and the promotion of a campus environment where respect for individual rights, accountability, and concern for others are upheld.
The initiative also supports the University's continuing efforts to build a safe and inclusive academic community where students can pursue their education free from sexual harassment and discrimination. (jdtdc)
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