Upholding Ethical Governance and Zero Tolerance for Exploitative Practices

Eastern Visayas State University (EVSU) upholds the highest standards of ethical governance, transparency, and human rights in all its administrative and academic operations. The University maintains a zero-tolerance against any form of modern slavery, including abuse of power, coercion, bribery, or exploitative practices that could compromise its integrity and moral ascendancy as a trailblazer of academic excellence and ethical leadership.

EVSU ensures that all employees perform their duties free from coercion, intimidation, or abuse, and that all engagements within the University—whether employment, contractual, or academic—are voluntary, fair, and lawful. Transparent employment contracts, adherence to legal standards, and compliance with national and international human rights conventions form the foundation of its ethical employment framework.

The University likewise upholds the ethical principles embodied in the Panunumpa ng Kawani ng Gobyerno, particularly the pledge to maintain integrity and reject bribery—“hindi tatanggap ng suhol.” This commitment reinforces the culture of honesty and accountability among all public servants, reminding them to report any suspicious or unethical activity.

To further institutionalize transparency, EVSU prominently displays “No Fixer” signages across its campuses, reminding employees, contractors, and clients that all services must be obtained through legitimate and systematic processes. This initiative underscores the University’s stance against corrupt practices and its dedication to delivering public service with integrity.

In compliance with Republic Act No. 9208 (Anti-Trafficking in Persons Act of 2003, as amended) and Republic Act No. 9231 (Elimination of the Worst Forms of Child Labor),

EVSU explicitly declares that:

• Forced labor, modern slavery, human trafficking, and child labor are strictly prohibited in all university activities and transactions.
• All employment, internship, and contractual engagements within the institution are governed by fairness, voluntariness, and legality.
• All contractors, suppliers, and partners are required to uphold the same standards of dignity, equality, and respect for human rights.
• Violations of these principles will be dealt with through proper legal and administrative actions, including reporting to competent authorities as mandated by law.

Through these measures, EVSU affirms its enduring commitment to protecting human dignity, ensuring equitable treatment, and safeguarding safe and fair working conditions for all. Its ethical governance framework guarantees that the University’s mission of education and public service is carried out with integrity, transparency, and accountability—anchored in the belief that true excellence is built upon justice, fairness, and respect for human rights.

Championing Ethical Governance and Partnership for Transparent and Sustainable Development

Eastern Visayas State University (EVSU) continues to embody its core commitment to Upholding Ethical Governance and Zero Tolerance for Exploitative Practices through its strong partnerships and exemplary contributions to public service. This dedication was recently affirmed as EVSU was recognized by the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) as a 2024 Local Governance Champion, honoring the University’s unwavering collaboration in advancing good governance, transparency, and community development in Eastern Visayas.

The prestigious recognition was conferred during RAYHAK 2024: Celebrating Good Local Governance, held on October 25, 2024, at the People’s Center and Library in Tacloban City. The event, which marked the culmination of the Local Government Month Celebration, brought together Local Government Units (LGUs), National Government Agencies (NGAs), Civil Society Organizations (CSOs), and Local Resource Institutions (LRIs) to celebrate their pivotal roles in strengthening local governance and public accountability.

EVSU distinguished itself in the Local Resource Institution (LRI) category for its sustained collaboration with DILG and local government partners. Through capacity-building programs, research initiatives, and governance-related training, the University has played a transformative role in enhancing public sector efficiency, participatory leadership, and community empowerment. These partnerships reflect EVSU’s firm commitment to transparency, ethical leadership, and good governance—principles that mirror its institutional stance against exploitation, corruption, and abuse of power.

In his keynote address, DILG Region VIII Director Arnel M. Agabe emphasized the enduring importance of partnerships since the enactment of the Local Government Code of 1991, acknowledging institutions like EVSU for their contributions to peace, security, and sustainable local development. The Director lauded the University for bridging the gap between government and the people through education, research, and civic engagement—hallmarks of a university deeply grounded in ethical and socially responsible governance.

EVSU President Dr. Dennis C. De Paz reaffirmed the University’s commitment to uphold integrity, transparency, and value-driven service in all its operations. He emphasized that ethical governance is not only an institutional standard but a shared responsibility that strengthens trust and accountability in all levels of public service.

This recognition from the DILG solidifies EVSU’s standing as a regional leader in promoting ethical governance and sustainable partnerships. It underscores the University’s dedication to fostering a culture of transparency, accountability, and moral integrity, ensuring that education and service go hand in hand in shaping resilient, empowered, and corruption-free communities in Eastern Visayas.

Project TANGKOD: Strengthening Ethical Governance and Protecting Employee and Community Rights through Free Legal Services

In alignment with its commitment to Upholding Ethical Governance and Zero Tolerance for Exploitative Practices, Eastern Visayas State University (EVSU), through its Non-Teaching Personnel Association (EVSU-NTPA), launched Project TANGKOD—an initiative that underscores the University’s dedication to justice, fairness, and the protection of human dignity within and beyond the workplace.

In partnership with the Integrated Bar of the Philippines (IBP) – Leyte Chapter, Project TANGKOD was officially launched on August 16, 2024, at the EVSU Inner Court. The project offers free legal services to the University’s Non-Teaching employees and its Extension Adopted Barangays—Barangays 43, 43-A, 43-B, 44, and 44-A—demonstrating EVSU’s dual commitment to employee welfare and community empowerment.

The initiative provides a comprehensive suite of libre serbisyo legal, including:

1. Legal consultations on issues such as violence against women and children (VAWC), support and custody cases, partition of estates, land and boundary disputes, succession, civil registry matters, and other civil or criminal concerns;
2. Drafting of simple legal documents such as affidavits, certifications, and demand letters; and
3. Free notarization of documents, excluding contracts and deeds with monetary consideration.

Through Project TANGKOD, EVSU ensures that its employees and partner communities have accessible legal support to safeguard their rights, prevent abuse, and promote social justice. The project’s name “TANGKOD,” a Waray term for uprightness or integrity—captures the essence of EVSU’s advocacy for ethical governance and principled public service.

This initiative reflects EVSU’s proactive stance in fostering an equitable and rights-based institutional culture. By partnering with the IBP, the University not only extends essential legal aid to underserved communities but also strengthens its internal mechanisms for protecting employees from coercion, exploitation, or unfair treatment.

Ultimately, Project TANGKOD reinforces EVSU’s belief that ethical governance begins with protecting people’s dignity and ensuring access to justice. It exemplifies how the University’s core values of integrity, service, and accountability translate into meaningful action—empowering both its workforce and partner communities to stand firm against exploitation and uphold the rule of law.

EVSU Strengthens Ethical Governance Through Gender Sensitivity and Safe Spaces Advocacy

In line with its strong commitment to upholding ethical governance and ensuring zero tolerance for exploitative practices, the Gender and Development (GAD) Office of Eastern Visayas State University (EVSU), under the leadership of Dr. Fatima Socorro M. Quianzon, will spearhead a transformative seminar titled “Building Safer Spaces” on November 21, 2024, at the GS Function Hall.

The seminar seeks to equip student leaders, non-teaching personnel, and GAD coordinators with essential knowledge on the awareness, prevention, and response to Violence Against Women (VAW). By creating informed and responsible advocates within the university, EVSU reinforces its institutional culture of integrity, accountability, and compassion.

Through this initiative, the university continues to champion gender equity and safeguard the rights and dignity of every member of the EVSU community. The GAD Office underscores that ethical governance extends beyond compliance—it embodies a moral duty to ensure that every EVSUnista learns, works, and leads in a safe, inclusive, and empowering environment.

This endeavor forms part of EVSU’s ongoing transformation toward becoming an inclusive smart university, where respect, equality, and ethical leadership remain the foundation of institutional excellence.