August 26, 2021 | USeP-CDM conducts orientation on Anti-Sexual Harassment and Safe Spaces Act
Members of the academe led by the USeP-Mintal College of Development Management, Gender and Development Office, and the Campus Student Council organized a virtual orientation that aimed to shed light on sexual harassment in the context of educational institution and workplace.
The orientation was formally welcomed by the campus’ Associate Dean Dr. Analiza Aguilar, who stated that utmost importance must be given to such cases to end the endless cycle of sexual violence and uphold the university’s goal to accomplish zero tolerance on sexual harassment.
The University Gender and Development Director Associate Prof. Rioliza B. Molina detailed the rationale of the orientation and introduced the highly esteemed resource speaker. The GAD Director affirmed that the office has conducted the same orientation annually for all the university colleges, especially for first year students and transferees. She also emphasized that the orientation’s very purpose is to build awareness and knowledge about sexual harassment and other related gender issues and know whom to call and raise concerns if a matter of concern arises.
Atty. Jesus “Bong” A. Villardo III, Director of USeP Office of Legal Affairs, had a run-through of the different laws enacted and amended in the country concerning sexual harassment. Atty. Villardo highlighted RA 7877 or the Anti-Sexual Harassment Law and RA 11313 or the Safe Spaces Act.
Atty Villardo pointed out that everyone should be aware of the following acts constituting sexual harassment:
- offering benefits for a sexual favor
- unwanted sexual advancements
- giving out unsolicited verbal and physical cues
- threatening or retaliation against the victim when they have politely said no
On the other hand, Republic Act No. 11313 or the Safe Spaces Act stresses the need to call out the unwelcome and pervasive conduct that creates an uncomfortable environment for the potential victim. These include catcalling or wolf-whistling, giving out sexist, misogynistic, homophobic comments, leering and intrusive gazes, and demanding the victim to offer his or her personal information.
Atty Villardo encourages everyone, especially the students, to cooperate in fulfilling the goal of maintaining a sexual harassment-free campus where every student and employee is safe. The College of Development Management–Mintal Campus supports the GAD Office in promoting gender sensitivity among the members of the university to safeguard the overall state of the students and employees. (EVillarde/CDMPADCoor)
