Batanes State College (BSC) headed by the College President, Djovi R. Durante, successfully conducted Gender Sensitivity Training (GST) via zoom platform on November 6-7, 2025. The said training was organized by the Gender and Development Focal Point System (GADFPS), led by Ms. Zoe Cartaño, GAD Focal.

The GST lecturer is an esteemed Instructor from the Isabela State University, a National GAD Pool Member of the Philippine Commission on Women, and a very witty and energetic, Ms. Haycel C. Vargas.

On the first day, November 6, 2025, the participants included the first-year to fourth-year BSC students. Some joined via Zoom, while others stayed in the BSC Amphitheater. The Vice President, Ms. Angelita H. Vargas, delivered the opening remarks, with emphasis on the importance of providing everyone with a safe space to be seen, heard and respected. The Head Secretariat, Ms. Lucille Telmo, conducted pre-tests and post-tests to ensure that the students truly learned from the lecture. Some of the topics discussed were the primary concepts of GAD, SOGIESC, Gender roles/ Agents Socialization, Gender Stereotypes, applying Gender Fair Language and brief discussions on the laws relating to GAD. The session featured eye-opening discussions, interesting questions, and the lecturer conducted workshop for the students. The lecturer actively engaged student participation in the activities. To end the session, a closing remark were given by Mr. Fortunato Philip A. Cabugao, Director for Student Services. He conveyed his appreciation to the lecturer and students, and highlighted the key lessons and insights from the session.

On the second day, November 7, 2025, the participants consisted of the administrative staff and faculty members. Ms. Michel A. Cabrera, Director for Instruction, in her opening remarks, she highlighted the importance of the GST, noting that government employees, particularly in the academe, are role models in the school and community, and should uphold professionalism and be familiar with GAD principles. Some of the topics discussed were Guide for Administering Gender Mainstreaming Evaluation Framework (GMEF) policy entry point and Enabling, and Mechanism Entry Point. It was fun and interactive learning session with employees actively participated in the games and workshops. Ms. Daryl Alva B. Duguran, Director for Internal and External Linkages, delivered her closing remarks which marked the conclusion of the training. She expressed her gratitude to everyone for dedicating their time and participating in the activities and workshop.

This seminar serves as a reminder of the importance of respecting the choices and be mindful of the standing of every individual in both our words and actions, while also upholding the rights of all. It also highlights how BSC, as an institution, actively implements, advances, and strengthens programs that will promote GAD.

Let us carry what we have learned into our daily lives. Together, we can build a healthy and gender-sensitive community.