Eastern Visayas State University – Tanauan Campus (EVSU-TC) students participated in the Gender Sensitivity Training and Symposium, organized by the Gender and Development (GAD) Office in collaboration with the Medical Office at the Global Medics (GM) Building, September 17.

In her opening remarks, Prof. Ma. Chona M. Fabre, Head of the Student Affairs and Services Office (SASO), welcomed students and emphasized the importance of the orientation in shaping students’ values and decision-making.

“This seminar will empower you to make responsible choices and protect your well-being,” Fabre said.

Following this, Gender and Development (GAD) Coordinator Prof. Meg Ann Villero discussed the Gender and Development concepts, including the legal basis of GAD, the difference between sex and gender, sexual orientation, gender identity, and gender roles.

She highlighted the importance of understanding these concepts in strengthening students’ awareness of gender roles.

Meanwhile, Campus Director Dr. Sheldon Ives G. Agaton delivered a message encouraging students to exercise their responsibility, stating that sexual activity should only take place within marriage.

He noted that choosing one’s lifetime partner wisely will make marriage fulfilling, while poor choices may lead to regret.
“In other words, sexual gratification outside the context of marriage is immoral; it is evil,” Dr. Agaton stated.

Further, Nurse Sharon M. Dolina, Head of the Medical Office, explained the basic function of the female reproductive system.
She highlighted the effects and consequences of teenage pregnancy, the complications of sexually transmitted diseases, as well as the risks and dangers of having an abortion.

The event served as an opportunity for students to become aware of gender sensitivity, understand their personal responsibility, and engage in safer practices.

The symposium directly advances SDG 5 (Gender Equality) and SDG 3 (Good Health and Well-Being) by promoting gender sensitivity awareness, educating students on reproductive health, and encouraging responsible decision-making to reduce health risks, while supporting SDG 4 (Quality Education) through holistic personal and social development outside the classroom.

via Andre Mae Albao | An Batingaw News
Photos by Jay Pedrosa | An Batingaw Multimedia