03/09/2026
B2B Basic GAD Orientation Promotes Mental Health, Legal Awareness
The Bukidnon State University – Gender and Development (GAD) Unit (Damulog Campus) successfully conducted the B2B Basic GAD Orientation last August 6, 2026, at the BukSU Damulog Covered Court as part of the university’s Week of Welcome celebration.
Driven by a strong commitment to Sustainable Development Goal 5 (Gender Equality), this initiative aimed to dismantle gender biases, foster safe spaces, and ensure equal opportunities for all members of the academic community. By placing gender fairness at the center of campus life, the activity also directly supported SDG 3 (Good Health and Well-Being), SDG 10 (Reduced Inequalities), and SDG 16 (Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions).
The event featured two impactful sessions focused on gender-responsive policies and human rights:
* Session 1: Gender-Inclusive Mental Health and Peer Dynamics (SDGs 3 & 5) — Ms. Lykha B. Peñas, RPm, discussed Republic Act 11036 (Mental Health Act) alongside a discussion on Stereotypes, Biases, and Peer Dynamics: Mental and Well-being. The session highlighted how gender expectations affect mental health and promoted equitable support systems for all students.
* Session 2: Gender-Based Protections and Human Rights (SDGs 5, 10, & 16) — PSSG. May Claire S. Durantackled critical legal protections against gender-based discrimination and harassment, covering RA 7877 (Anti-Sexual Harassment Act), RA 11313 (Safe Spaces Act), and RA 7277 (Magna Carta for Persons with Disabilities) under the theme “SAFE & SEEN: Safety, Accessibility, Freedom, and Equality.”
The GAD Unit extends its heartiest gratitude to our speakers, organizers, and active student participants. Together, BukSU Damulog continues to champion gender equality and build an inclusive, safe, and empowering learning community!