A gender sensitivity orientation and a character formation program were successfully commenced by the Gender and Development (GAD) office, attended by all Central Philippines State University (CPSU) 4th-year students.
As the first resource speaker, Ma’am Nelly Cabual, Board Secretary V, discussed “Character Formation," including its significance for graduating students and its role in developing strong character traits that would help them achieve future success.
Attorney IV, Atty. Racel Malalu-an, took the stage as the second resource speaker, delivering a presentation on “Republic Act 11313”, also known as the Safe Space Act, to equip students with knowledge on promoting safe and respectful environments.
The comprehensive program and orientation, spearheaded by the Gender and Development (GAD) Office and Director Shirley A. Calugcugan, were held at the CPSU Main covered court on May 19, 2025, covering key topics aligned with the university’s commitment to promoting a culture of equality and respect.
The Vice President for Academic and Finance (VPAF), Engr. Marc Alexie Caesar B. Badajos expressed, “Safe Space Act should first be embraced among students and faculty. Noting and realizing the importance of the Safe Space Act in the university, CPSU has applied gender and development principles to promote equality over the years and is ensuring a safe environment for students. I am hoping that students would not only impart the knowledge that they learned but also embrace values of gender equality and adhere to the Safe Space Act”.
Director Calugcugan elaborated the rationale behind the orientation and program as well as their significance for CPSU Main Campus graduating students, citing the preparation of the students as members of the Philippine workforce, in furthering their educational attainments, and or in other personal and professional pursuits—dealing with real-life challenges and opportunities beyond the walls of the university.
In his closing remarks, the Vice President for Academic Affairs (VPAA), Dr. Grenny I. Jungco, expressed gratitude to the GAD office for spearheading the orientation; he also highlighted that as the students move forward from the university, they should embody good character and manifest Cenphilian core values.
Through the orientation, the university hopes to have inspired students to carry the invaluable life lessons they gained from their higher education journey and to steadfastly foster a sense of responsible citizenship as Filipinos.