FORTIFYING INCLUSIVITY JRMSU reinforces its commitment to Inclusivity and Diversity through Gender Mainstreaming Capacity Building
In its ongoing effort to foster a more inclusive and gender-sensitive academic environment, Jose Rizal Memorial State University (JRMSU) recently conducted a three-day Capacity Building Series on Gender Mainstreaming, held from April 28 to 30, 2025, at the College of Nursing and Allied Health Sciences (CNAHS) Audio-Visual Hall.
The series aimed to strengthen institutional mechanisms, improve gender mainstreaming strategies, and develop actionable plans to create a safer and more inclusive University community. In-depth sessions covered topics ranging from sexual harassment policies to gender-responsive planning and budgeting.
The first day, led by Hon. Chad Martin Paler (Professor, JRMSU College of Law), Dr. Marissa M. Recapente (Chief Administrative Officer), and Mr. James Reselih H. Espinosa (Human Resource Management Officer), focused on enhancing the role of the Committee on Decorum and Investigation (CODI). Discussions included the finalization of CODI’s Guidelines and Organizational Framework, strategies for preventing gender-based sexual harassment, and policy enhancement, particularly a comprehensive review of the Anti-Sexual Harassment Act of 1995 (RA 7877) and the Safe Spaces Act (RA 11313), also known as the “Bawal Bastos Law.”
University President Dr. Maria Rio Abdon Naguit delivered a compelling message on the importance of clear, enforceable sexual harassment policies and the integration of gender and development (GAD) initiatives into University Programs, Activities, and Projects (PAPs). She emphasized that fostering a just and equitable environment ensures students thrive free from discrimination and employees work in a safe, supportive space.
On the second day, the focus shifted to strengthening the Gender and Development Focal Point System (GFPS) and preparing the Gender and Development Plan and Budget (GPB) for Fiscal Year 2026. Prof. Arnold M. Ferolino, a Certified National Gender Resource Pool Member of the Philippine Commission on Women (PCW), shared insights on enhancing GFPS coordination and aligning University programs with GAD principles through gender-responsive budgeting.
Dr. Reynaldo Venezuela, Vice President for Administration, underscored the critical role of GFPS in advancing gender-responsive governance. “Strengthening our GFPS is not just timely—it’s crucial. Our ability to deliver inclusive and gender-responsive governance depends on how well we understand and fulfill our mandates,” he noted.
The final day centered on developing Gender-Responsive Programs, Activities, and Projects (PAPs) using the Harmonized Gender and Development Guidelines (HGDG). Participants were equipped with tools to embed gender responsiveness throughout the project lifecycle—from conceptualization to implementation. Prof. Ferolino stressed that adherence to gender guidelines must evolve into a long-term commitment to gender equality.
Through this initiative, JRMSU reaffirms its dedication to building an inclusive and gender-sensitive academic environment. This commitment aligns with its Quality Policy Statement—emphasizing holistic human development, innovative and inclusive learning, and student empowerment. The University remains devoted to academic excellence, ethical standards, and fostering diversity, equity, and inclusivity through sustainable partnerships and collaborative efforts.
