The University of Northern Philippines Student Council organized a student symposium at the UNP Hostel on March 18, 2024. The program gathered students to address gender-related challenges and promote inclusivity and well-being.

In celebration of Women’s Month, the symposium empowered students with the theme “Diversity Dialogues: Fostering Inclusivity and Well-being – A Student Symposium on Gender-related Challenges.”

The Officer-in-Charge of the Center of Gender Development, Dr. Vonnavic R. Agad, expressed, “We need to build bridges and limit gaps, and resolve conflicts and disputes among women and men through gender equality and create a more inclusive society were women and men accept their differences, share experiences, and work hand-in-hand for the benefit of our community.”

Dr. Vonnavic R. Agad also highlighted the recurring theme of the National Women’s Month, “WE for gender equality and inclusive society.”

She stated that women and men of all ages, including girls, and the vulnerable sectors of our society regardless of sexual orientation, have an equal chance to realize their rights, dreams, and aspirations towards economic, social, political, and cultural development. According to her, this means that no one should be left behind.

“Kaya binibigyan natin ng importance din yung mga brothers and sisters natin belonging to diverse SOGIE so that no one should be left behind. So as modern propellers of gender equality, we’re all encouraged to value the role of men and women in our society, and no one is above the other as our contributions to our workplace and of course in our society involve collective efforts,” she encouraged the audience.

Mr. Randolfo Lopez, the keynote speaker and adviser of the UNP Student Council, focused on the role of men in advocating gender equality and social inclusivity.

He conveyed, “the reason behind why inclusivity is good ay para naman din makita ng mundo na kung ano ang kaya naming mga lalake ay kaya rin naman ninyo (na mga babae). Each and every individual needs every individual. Ang tawag natin doon, every human being is a social being. We need each other but we need to respect each other, kasi napakalaking way ‘yun para mas maintindihan natin ang bawat isa.”

At the end of his speech, he acknowledged that differences could pave the way towards working on common goals. “Magkakaiba man po tayo, lalake man ako, babae man kayo, miyembro man kayo ng LGBTQIA+, if we are going to stand for a cause that which we are going to uplift every human being, I think that would be the testament of true inclusivity.”

In addition, Maiden Cynthia Louise Kate Valoria (Miss Ilocos Sur Environment 2024) and Thea Oandasan (Perlas ti Amianan 2023) shared their advocacies on gender development.

Article by Adrian Troy A. Supnad and Ceasar M. Basconsillo. Photo by Noelly Jynx Tacas.