Ms. Chaznei Pinca, Associate Vice President for Gender Awareness and Development of PIIE-CvSUSC, recently attended a webinar organized by the CvSU Gender and Development Resource Center on September 26, 2024.

Titled Safe Spaces, Big Impact! How Influencers Can Champion Online Safety for All, the seminar provided crucial insights into online safety and the role of influencers in creating safer digital environments.

One of the key takeaways from Col. Francel Margareth A. Padilla-Taborlupa’s discussion was the increasing importance of cybersecurity as emerging cyber risks and territorial disputes, like China’s ongoing claims over the West Philippine Sea, pose significant threats to national and digital security. As data becomes a valuable currency, protecting it from hacking, misinformation, and cybercrime has become essential.

Atty. Chel Diokno highlighted the critical responsibility influencers hold in shaping public opinion and promoting safe online spaces, emphasizing the importance of laws such as the Safe Spaces Act, the Anti-Cyberbullying Law, and the Data Privacy Law. As social media algorithms continue to influence opinions and spread information, influencers must leverage their platforms to advocate for online safety and inclusion.

Ms. Ella May Paguntalan, Associate Vice President for Gender Awareness and Development of PIIE-CvSUSC, participated in a transformative webinar focused on exploring how mental health issues impact individuals across different genders on October 10, 2024. The event, organized by Cavite State University's Gender and Development Resource Center, emphasized the importance of providing inclusive and gender-responsive mental health care while challenging traditional ideas that create barriers to mental health support.

In the first topic, Men and Mental Health: Challenging the Stigma of Seeking Help, Dr. Paulito V. Hilario examined the higher rates of substance use and suicide among Filipino men. He discussed the harmful societal expectations of masculinity that often discourage men from seeking help and outlined solutions, such as connecting with local helplines, mental health apps, and online communities.

In Shedding Light on Women’s Mental Health, Dr. Armi Grace B. Desingaño addressed the biological and social challenges uniquely affecting women, from postpartum depression to gender-based violence. She underscored the importance of legal protections, such as the Anti-Violence Against Women and Their Children Act, while promoting emotional regulation and community-based support systems.

Lastly, Ms. Ma. Sheila Ricalde discussed the topic Building Support Systems for Diverse Mental Health Needs, focusing on individuals in minority groups who experience heightened levels of stress due to societal challenges. She emphasized the role of family, faith communities, and professional services in recognizing and addressing signs of mental stress while fostering effective communication to prevent feelings of isolation.

This webinar underscored the need for continued collaboration in creating gender-responsive mental health interventions, a cause that the #TeamGAD of PIIE-CvSU SC passionately advocates for.

Ms. Ella May Paguntalan, Associate Vice President for Gender Awareness and Development of PIIE-CvSU SC, participated in an insightful webinar on February 13, 2025, focused on building healthy relationships, setting boundaries, and understanding commitment. The discussion also addressed early pregnancy, modern and traditional courtship, and the psychological effects of undefined relationships on individuals.

Organized by the Cavite State University - Gender and Development Resource Center, the webinar, “𝗠𝗬 𝗣𝗨𝗟𝗣𝗢𝗟 𝗟𝗢𝗩𝗘: Equitable Pathways to Healthy Relationships and Prevention of Early Pregnancy”, brought together experts to emphasize the vital role of parents, guardians, and education in fostering responsible and informed relationships. The sessions explored various aspects of dating, commitment, relationship boundaries, and the emotional toll of unclear relationship dynamics.

Mr. Leonard V. Paunil opened the discussion with Crush Landing… Sureball ka na ba?, where he broke down the stages of dating—from initial attraction to commitment—and examined how traditional and modern Filipino courtship practices shape relationships today. Following this, Prof. King David J. Agreda delved into I’m Too Sexy (Responsible Sex), emphasizing the importance of setting healthy relationship boundaries based on respect, communication, and mutual understanding.

Dr. Paulito V. Hilario tackled the complexities of undefined relationships in Napakasakit… MU… Walang Tayo… Pusong Nagdurugo, highlighting the emotional toll of situationships and their effects on mental health. Lastly, Dr. Racquel G. Agustin and Mr. Jaime Zeus C. Agutins shared their real-life journey in Kasal o kasal-kasalan, illustrating the importance of commitment, overcoming challenges, and growing together as a couple.

The webinar reinforced the significance of self-awareness, open communication, and responsible decision-making in fostering meaningful and lasting relationships. By understanding these key principles, individuals can build healthier connections and make empowered choices for their future.

On November 21, 2024, the PIIE-CvSUSC was represented by one and only VP for GAD Tanya Tamayo  in a university wide seminar together with other CvSU student Organizations  for the “Gender Orientation 101: Building Respect & Inclusivity for GAD Ambassadors.”

The seminar featured Ms. Raecela A. Estebat, who highlighted the pivotal role of GAD Ambassadors in championing equality, and Mr. Ariel Rivera, who tackled gender sensitivity, fair language, and the impact of societal roles.

Ms. Ellaine E. Todoc focused on the significance of RA 7877 (Anti-Sexual Harassment Act) and RA 11313 (Safe Spaces Act), while strategies for integrating GAD into programs emphasized inclusivity and equal participation.

Beyond the knowledge shared by the speakers, VP Tanya feel more empowered as a GAD Ambassador, inspired by the collective advocacy for gender equality and the need to amplify unheard voices.

As this seminar concludes, VP Tanya learned that being a GAD Ambassador is about more than just breaking the stigma surrounding gender and sex—it is also a deeper commitment to listening to every voice and ensuring inclusivity. Lastly, it’s crucial that GAD ambassadors should take the lead in building inclusivity, creating a safe space where people feel comfortable addressing their concerns. If no one takes the first step, nothing will ever change. It starts with us.

Mr. John Ver Cortado, Support Council Member for Gender Awareness and Development of PIIE-CvSUSC, recently attended the Women in Leadership Forum held on September 18, 2025.

With the theme “Celebrating a Milestone: Women’s Leadership and Inclusive Governance in Higher Education,” the forum emphasized the vital role of women in leadership and the importance of building inclusive, fair, and transformative institutions.

Key takeaways from the discussions focused on the challenges women face in leadership, such as gender stereotypes, unconscious bias, workplace discrimination, unequal pay, and balancing work and family life.

Speakers also explained important concepts like the glass ceiling, which represents invisible obstacles that hinder career growth; tokenism, where women are included but not fully empowered; and impostor syndrome, the feeling of self-doubt despite qualifications. These insights stressed the need for both individual determination and systemic change to achieve true equality.

Dr. Renifer Rebello Francisco encouraged everyone to take action, stating, “I want everybody, men and women, to make Gender and Development a priority. What is mandated to us is to integrate it, therefore we can do it in everything that we do in the university, in your homes, and in the community that you serve.”

This message served as a strong call for collective responsibility in promoting gender equality and inclusive governance.