The University of Southeastern Philippines (USeP) concluded the celebration of the 2024 National Women’s Month, which bears the theme, “Lipunang Patas sa Bagong Pilipinas: Kakayahan ng Kababaihan, Patutunayan”, with a culminating activity spearheaded by the Gender and Development Office on April 5, 2024, at the University Social Hall, USeP Obrero Campus, Davao City.
Vice President for Administration, Dr. Maria Luisa B. Faunillan, delivered the welcome remarks to officially open the activity by emphasizing the importance of organizing activities that celebrate the meaningful contributions of women in society. “In USeP, we envision a future where equal opportunities are accessible to everyone. Moreover, we put special emphasis on inclusivity to guarantee that no individual especially women is left behind,” she remarked.
University President, Dr. Bonifacio G. Gabales, Jr., also delivered a message that centered on the University’s commitment to the inclusive pursuit of development wherein men and women are given equal opportunity to contribute gainfully to the transformation of lives and communities.
“As an academic institution, we recognize education as not only a fundamental right but also a powerful tool for empowerment. Here at our University, we are committed to providing an environment where everyone- where women- can thrive academically, professionally, and personally through various programs provided by the University,” he said.
Dr. Gabales also reminded the community that USeP cannot exist and will not thrive without men and women working hand-in-hand in a safe space to spur continuous development and excellence. “We strive to create a safe space for women- our teaching and non-teaching staff as well as our students- where their voices are heard, their talents are nurtured, and their aspirations are supported,” he added.
The culmination included lectures on cervical cancer awareness facilitated by Dr. Edelyn A. Badilla, a Gyne Oncologist; the rights of women by Atty. Jamil Adrian Khalil L. Matalam, Director of the USeP Legal Aid Center; and a talk on women in the disability community by Ms. Febe Lybai A. Matthew, President of Parents Mobilization Action Group, and Ms. Agatha Joy Hega-Lacambra, President of Davao United Deaf Association Incorporated. Free legal counseling and discounted makeover services from Leo Revita Salon were also available during the event.
Moreover, esteemed winners of the Purple Fridays photo contest were also awarded, to wit: Ms. Richelle C. Pacoy and Ms. Lucky M. Omega of the College of Development Management (CDM); Ms. Ruby Jean S. Sayon of the College of Technology (CT); Assoc. Prof. Winda B. Cejas and Mr. John Lerry A. Misa of the College of Teacher Education and Technology (CTET); Dr. Ava Sheldin T. Guerrero of the College of Education (CEd); and Ms. Gresiel Fernando of the College of Information and Computing (CIC).
GAD Director, Asst. Prof. Genesesly R. Tahoy, wrapped up the event by thanking the Top Management and the members of the USeP community for their continuing support to the GAD Agenda of the University.
