In celebration of the 2025 Women’s Month culmination program, the University Gender and Development (GAD) Office conducted a Students’ GAD Symposium on April 3, 2025, at Teatro Kalinga, Main Campus. With the theme “Babae sa Lahat ng Sector, Aangat ang Bukas sa Bagong Pilipinas,” the event gathered university officials, student leaders, and faculty members to discuss and promote gender equality, inclusivity, and empowerment.

The symposium aimed to equip student leaders with the knowledge and skills to become agents of change, advocating for a more inclusive and equitable society.

𝑰𝒏𝒔𝒑𝒊𝒓𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝑴𝒆𝒔𝒔𝒂𝒈𝒆𝒔 𝒇𝒓𝒐𝒎 𝑼𝒏𝒊𝒗𝒆𝒓𝒔𝒊𝒕𝒚 𝑳𝒆𝒂𝒅𝒆𝒓𝒔

In his welcome remarks, Mr. Ronald Bulwayan, Director for Student Services, Admission, and Placement Services, emphasized that the event served as an avenue for learning, discussion, and collaboration on critical gender-related issues. He encouraged active participation, urging attendees to engage in meaningful conversations, share their perspectives, and contribute to shaping a gender-inclusive future.

Meanwhile, Ms. Irene M. Daguasi, Center Director for Dinayao Center, provided an overview of the program, underscoring the importance of gender equality, inclusivity, and sensitivity in fostering a fair and respectful academic and social environment. She reiterated the vision of a future where women enjoy equal rights, opportunities, and freedom from gender biases and discrimination.

𝐊𝐞𝐲 𝐃𝐢𝐬𝐜𝐮𝐬𝐬𝐢𝐨𝐧𝐬 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐏𝐫𝐨𝐦𝐢𝐧𝐞𝐧𝐭 𝐒𝐩𝐞𝐚𝐤𝐞𝐫𝐬

The symposium featured insightful discussions led by distinguished speakers, covering essential topics related to gender and development:

The Role of Youth in Gender-Responsive Social Welfare – Ms. Judith D. Puday

Women Redefining Traditional Roles – FSINSP Arlyn G. Diwag

How Educators Cultivate Gender Equality in Everyday Leadership – Ms. Luisita Parilla

Turning Challenges into Leadership Opportunities – Ms. Rachel D. Maling

Student Leaders Championing Gender-Fair Schools – Mr. Ramonchito Soriano

Each session provided valuable insights, highlighting the importance of gender-responsive leadership, breaking traditional gender roles, and fostering gender equality in various sectors.

𝐀 𝐂𝐚𝐥𝐥 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐌𝐞𝐚𝐧𝐢𝐧𝐠𝐟𝐮𝐥 𝐂𝐡𝐚𝐧𝐠𝐞

The Students’ GAD Symposium served as a powerful reminder that gender equality must go beyond discussions and be translated into tangible changes—especially for marginalized and underserved women. Through education, advocacy, and leadership, student leaders and educators can drive meaningful progress toward a more inclusive and gender-fair society.