In line with the National Women’s Month Celebration, the Association of Communication Enthusiasts (ACE) conducted a seminar on women’s rights at the University Auditorium on March 20, 2024.

With the theme “Equal Ground: Seeing Women Thrive Throughout Gender Diversity Through Equality and Inclusivity,” students from all year levels from the Bachelor of Arts in Communication and Bachelor of Science in Environmental Planning programs participated in the event.

Dr. Irene Abigail Guerrero, adviser of ACE, highlighted in her opening remarks the importance of gender rights and the need to create an environment where equal opportunities for women prevail, enabling all genders to unleash their full potential and thrive in every aspect of life.

“When we prioritize equality and inclusivity, we empower ourselves to pursue our passions, live our dreams, and reach for the stars. We create a world where opportunities are not limited by gender but are instead open to all who dare to seek them,” Dr. Guerrero stated.

Additionally, Hon. Janina Medina Fariñas, city councilor of Vigan City, served as the first speaker, addressing the topic “Women as Leaders of the Nation.” She shared her personal journey, struggles, and experiences in discovering her role and voice. 

She emphasized the concept of “imposter syndrome” and her journey to understand her purpose and role beyond mere privilege, urging others to prioritize understanding one’s self. 

Fariñas stressed the importance of using one’s own voice, as each individual possesses an authentic voice, and everyone has a different story to share. She challenged the participants to expose themselves, urging each and every one that they could emerge as leaders in their respective fields, providing young people with opportunities.

“It is not enough to break the glass ceiling; you have to fight and prove yourself. You have to still be the woman they can aspire to and be inspired by,” Hon. Fariñas stated.

The session’s second speaker, the Director of the University Environmental Management Office, Anna Liza V. Europa-Morales, discussed women’s rights and roles in the environment and development. 

She reiterated, “Sustainable development is not possible without equity. It is a prerequisite for any action aimed at improving people’s quality of life. This implies that gender equality and equity are not only a question of fundamental human rights and social justice but are also instrumental and a precondition for environmental conservation, sustainable development, and human security.”

At the end of her speech, she highlighted that women must be equal participants in all decisions related to their environment. “In celebrating Women’s Month, let us remember that empowered women are not only agents of change in society but also stewards of our environment, nurturing a world where equality thrives alongside sustainability,” Dir. Morales added.

In addition, the third speaker, the President of the Rotary Club Vigan, Dr. Glenda P. Rabino, discussed the importance of access to healthcare services, comprehensive reproductive healthcare, education and awareness, preventive care, and culturally competent care. 

Furthermore, PCpl Roxanne Angele R. Padre, Head of the Women and Children Protection Desk, served as the fourth speaker on the topic of women and children’s protection. She highlighted laws and policies related to Violence Against Women and Children (VAWC) particularly Republic Act 9262, a law passed to protect women and children from any form of violence.

Through this seminar, the participants were able to gain insights about the importance of taking up space in society. The seminar served as a reminder for all the participants to thrive through gender diversity through equality and inclusivity.