The BSC commemorates the celebration of National Women’s Month this year through the GAD Resource Center and its GAD Focal Point System. A two-day activity was conducted for the College’s employees and students last March 16 and 17, 2023 at the BSC Amphitheater with the supervision of Asst. Prof. Michel A. Cabrera, the GAD Focal Person. Morning activities on the 16th consist of a seminar on Magna Carta of Women and Achieving Gender Equality and Inclusivity while competitions in Song Writing, Spoken Poetry, Infographics, Mobile Photography and Digital Short Film were showcased in the afternoon.

Asst. Prof. Doreen C. Castillo opened the program followed by the Director for Finance and Administrative Services (DAFS) and Officer-in-Charge, Engr. Romina Katrina Bayaras who gave an inspirational message in behalf of Dr. Djovi R. Durante, the College President. Meanwhile, Dr. Angelita H. Vargas introduced the first speaker, Judge Glenda A. Pazziuagan who discussed the ‘Magna Carta of Women.’ She comprehensively discussed and enlightened everyone regarding the law.

“…there’s equal opportunity in case-to-case basis. But the important thing is we live now in a world that recognizes that women have rights and that women have a voice and that women should be considered as an integral part in the society…” Judge Pazziuagan stated, emphasizing the value of women.

After the first speaker, Dr. William Jo Se M. Billote introduced Atty. Jenny B. Castro, who tackled ‘How to Achieve Gender Equality and Inclusive Society.’ Remarkably, she stated “Why aim for gender equality? Gender equality is in the best interest of countries, companies and men. But to fully empower girls and women, we must also engage boys and men. We must mobilize both men and women to overcome the remaining obstacles of gender equality. To achieve gender equality and inclusivity, make this as your motto of your life, “Equality starts with me!”

In the afternoon, various competitions were participated by students and employees and watched the showcase of the performances of those who passed their entries. The results are as follows: 1. HTM Department – Champion, Song Writing Competition 2. TEd Department – Champion, Spoken Poetry 3. TEd Department & IT Department – Champions, Mobile Photography 4. HTM Department & ICT Department – Champions, Infographics. Asst. Prof. Antonia E. Español ended the program reiterating the value and the quote “WE for gender equality and inclusive society” along with the hashtag #WEcanbeEquAll encouraging women to strengthen their self-worth and appreciation as strong agents of national development and nations building. The Screening for potential donors for a blood-letting activity was conducted on the second day, March 17, 2023. The Blood-Letting Activity will be held on April, 2023 in partnership with the Batanes General Hospital and the Philippine Red Cross,