Gender and Development

December 28 2024

ISUFST and DLSU wrap up SDG Policy Workshop with Future Policy Forum

ISUFST Admin Activities, Extension, Gender and Development, Projects

Janiuay, Iloilo–The Iloilo State University of Fisheries Science and Technology (ISUFST), in collaboration with De La Salle University (DLSU) J. Robredo Institute of Governance, successfully concluded the three-day seminar-workshop “Shaping Inclusive Futures: An Action Plan for ISUFST’s SDG Policy Center” on December 28, 2024, at Damires Hills Tierra Verde Leisure Farm.

The final day featured Fulbright Visiting Scholar Juliene Porciuncula from North Carolina State University, who shared her research entitled “A Recipe for Reclaiming Filipino Food Identity.” The morning sessions also included Prof. Ian Jayson Hecita, who guided participants through “Action Plan Roadmap for Equity: Envisioning a Policy Center for Women and Children.” Prof. Hecita delved into the nuances of creating an inclusive policy framework, emphasizing data-driven decision-making and stakeholder engagement. His facilitation inspired participants to outline strategic priorities for the proposed policy center, ensuring alignment with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

Across all three days, discussions provided academic insights and practical approaches to crafting research papers and policy briefs addressing pressing issues such as teenage pregnancy, violence against women and children (VAWC), disaster risk reduction management (DRRM), and online sexual abuse and exploitation of children (OSAEC). Using mainly the Institutional Analysis and Development (IAD) Framework, participants explored data-driven solutions and strategies for effective policy implementation.

Guided by the expertise of governance advocate Dr. Francisco Magno, planning mentor Prof. Eddie Nuque, and research expert Dr. Leonora Angeles of the University of British Columbia (UBC), the workshop concluded with concrete and meaningful steps: publishing impactful research, crafting insightful policy briefs, and preparing for an engaging Policy Forum in March 2025. These initiatives form the foundation for establishing the SDG Policy Center, envisioned as a hub for inclusive governance and sustainable development in Western Visayas and beyond.

“This seminar solidifies ISUFST’s commitment to advancing data-driven and inclusive policies that address local challenges while aligning with global SDG priorities,” said ISUFST President and Program Leader of the Localization of Women and Children’s Policies in Iloilo, Dr. Nordy Siason, Jr.

Project Leader and ISUFST Research and Development Director Dr. Jescel Bito-onon highlighted the activity’s transformative impact: “This workshop is a testament to the power of collaboration in addressing complex societal challenges. The proposed policy center will be a critical platform for translating research into actionable policies that empower communities and safeguard the most vulnerable.”

Once operational, the ISUFST-based SDG Policy Center will focus on developing evidence-based strategies to empower women, protect children, and foster equitable development. Workshop participants committed to contributing research publications and policy recommendations that will guide the center’s future initiatives.

The March 2025 Policy Forum will provide a platform to present these outputs, gather stakeholder input, and catalyze inclusive and sustainable policymaking discussions. (Photos by Warren John Oronan/Text by Herman Lagon/PAMMCO, Published by: Patrick Lance Nacion)

December 27 2024

ISUFST and DLSU Explore Inclusive SDG-Based Local Laws on Day 2

ISUFST Admin Activities, Extension, Gender and Development, Research

The second day of the training workshop, “Shaping Inclusive Futures: An Action Plan for ISUFST’s SDG Policy Center,” featured compelling discussions and strategic planning for addressing gender equality and child protection policies. Hosted by the Iloilo State University of Fisheries Science and Technology (ISUFST) in collaboration with De La Salle University (DLSU) J. Robredo Institute of Governance (JMRI), the event runs from December 26 to 28 at Damires Hills Tierra Verde Leisure Farm.

The day’s sessions were headlined by Fulbright Visiting Scholar Juliene Porciuncula from North Carolina State University and Dr. Leonora Angeles, Associate Professor at the University of British Columbia. Her talk provided academic insights and practical approaches to crafting research papers for publication that address pressing issues such as teenage pregnancy, violence against women and children (VAWC), disaster risk reduction management (DRRM), and online sexual abuse and exploitation of children (OSAEC). She explored data-driven solutions and policy implementation strategies using the Institutional Analysis and Development (IAD) Framework, the Circular Model of the Research Process, and other similar frameworks.

“We need to understand the intersectionality of these issues,” noted Dr. Angeles, emphasizing the importance of integrating laws like the Safe Spaces Act and DRRM (Disaster Risk Reduction and Management) policies into the context of women’s and children’s safety.

The sessions also included researchers led by Dr. Francisco Magno, Director of the JMRI at DLSU, sharing insights using the IAD model. They focused on translating policy concepts into actionable plans and comprehensive realities on the ground descriptions. Participants engaged in activities to refine strategies for community-based disaster management and sustainable local governance. Prof. Magno emphasized, “Effective policies begin with understanding local contexts, partnering with the stakeholders, and empowering communities.”

“This initiative exemplifies ISUFST’s commitment to bridging the gap between global Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and the unique realities of our local communities,” said ISUFST President Dr. Nordy Siason, Jr. “By addressing pressing issues such as gender equality and child protection through data-driven policies and inclusive strategies, we aim to drive meaningful change for vulnerable sectors. This effort also reinforces ISUFST’s vision of fostering equity and academic excellence through collaboration and innovation.”

The workshop, which culminates tomorrow, December 28, 2024, will finalize action plans for the March 2025 Policy Summit and the plan to install a local Policy Center, solidifying ISUFST’s leadership in inclusive governance and its vision of fostering equity through academic excellence and collaboration. (PAMMCO)

December 26 2024

ISUFST and DLSU kick off Workshop en route to SDG Women-Children Policy Summit

ISUFST Admin Extension, Gender and Development, Projects

The Iloilo State University of Fisheries Science and Technology (ISUFST), in partnership with the De La Salle University (DLSU) J. Robredo Institute of Governance, officially starts the workshop titled “Shaping Inclusive Futures: An Action Plan for ISUFST’s SDG Policy Center” this morning, December 20, at Damires Hills Tierra Verde Leisure Farm, Janiuay, Iloilo. The event, set for December 26 to 28, 2024, marks the deepening of a pivotal initiative to localize Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 5, focusing on gender equality and empowering women and children.

This event gathers select participants from ISUFST and DLSU to collaborate on crafting an inclusive and evidence-based framework for addressing gender and child-focused issues. The workshop serves as a key step in DLSU and ISUFST’s plan to hold a Policy Summit this March 2025 and establish a policy center dedicated to creating sustainable and equitable development pathways at the local level.

ISUFST President Dr. Nordy Siason, Jr., CESO VI underscored the workshop’s significance in achieving meaningful progress for vulnerable sectors. “This event reflects our collective commitment to driving inclusive development and empowering women and children through localized and sustainable policies,” Dr. Siason remarked.

The day began with a presentation by Dr. Francisco Magno, who provided the rationale behind the initiative, highlighting the critical need for collaborative action to address gaps in gender equality and child protection policies. The presentation set the tone for the following discussions, emphasizing the importance of bridging global SDG frameworks with the realities of local governance.

Prof. Eddie Nuque is also set to facilitate a workshop on “Empowering Action: Developing Training and Activities for Effective Planning.” This session focuses on equipping participants with tools and methodologies to translate policy ideas into actionable programs. Prof. Nuque is expected to emphasize the importance of contextualized training approaches and strategic performance management systems, encouraging participants to leverage community-specific insights to create impactful and sustainable initiatives. His collaborative and interactive approach hopes to provide participants with hands-on strategies for capacity-building and operational planning.

The discussions will continue under the facilitation of Prof. Ian Jayson Hecita, who will guide participants through “Action Plan Roadmap for Equity: Envisioning a Policy Center for Women and Children.” Prof. Hecita’s session will delve into the nuances of creating an inclusive policy framework, emphasizing the importance of data-driven decision-making and stakeholder involvement. His facilitation hopes to encourage the group to map out strategic priorities for the proposed policy center, ensuring its alignment with the Sustainable Development Goals.

The three-day event will conclude with the policy center’s strategic direction, laying the groundwork for the subsequent sessions focused on capacity-building, planning, and monitoring mechanisms. Participants are expected to invest in the initiative, recognizing its potential to improve local governance and policy-making.

The next two days will focus on action planning, evaluation, and output presentations to refine the SDG Policy Center’s framework. Expert insights from Dr. Leonora Angeles of the University of British Columbia (UBC) and Fulbright Scholar Juliene Porciuncula of the North Carolina State University (UCSU) will also enrich the discussions. Together, participants and facilitators aim to create a clear, actionable roadmap to bring meaningful change to local communities.

This initiative, Dr. Siason said, “demonstrates ISUFST’s leadership in fostering sustainable and inclusive development, further solidifying its role as a catalyst for change in the region.” The workshop’s outcomes are expected to drive local efforts in advancing gender equality and empowering communities, aligning with the broader objectives of the United Nations’ 2030 Agenda. (Photos by Warren John Oronan/Text by Herman Lagon/PAMMCO)

December 4 2024

2 ISUFST Faculty Lead Training on Gender Roles, Professional Boundaries with 120 Passi City Educators

ISUFST Admin Activities, Gender and Development

The Schools Division Office (SDO) of Passi City successfully conducted a training workshop titled “Respect, Responsibility, and Boundaries: A GAD Approach to Professional Success” on November 29, 2024, at the Nine Suite Business Hotel in Poblacion, Passi City. The event, attended by 120 division personnel, school heads, supervisors, and wellness advocates, was led by faculty members from the Iloilo State University of Fisheries Science and Technology (ISUFST) as part of their ongoing collaboration with DepEd SDO Passi City.

Dr. Herman Lagon, a registered guidance counselor and Director of Public Affairs, Marketing, and Media Communications (PAMMCO) at ISUFST, led the session on “Effective Tools and Methods for Setting and Maintaining Boundaries.” His presentation focused on practical strategies for professional development, emotional resilience, and boundary-setting within educational environments. “This initiative reflects ISUFST’s commitment to equipping educators with the necessary skills to manage their wellness while addressing students’ emotional needs,” Dr. Lagon remarked.

In addition, Dr. Lenirose Mondero, Director of Gender and Development (GAD) at ISUFST, conducted a session on “Gender Roles and Boundaries.” She emphasized the critical importance of understanding and respecting boundaries in professional settings, especially concerning gender dynamics. “Recognizing and respecting gender-related boundaries in professional relationships is crucial to creating a safe and supportive environment for educators and students,” Dr. Mondero stressed.

The four-hour workshop featured group case studies, data-driven inputs, and interactive sharing sessions, during which participants discussed real-field challenges faced by students and teachers. These discussions centered on how boundaries impact current educational and personal issues, including managing stress, supporting students’ emotional needs, and preventing burnout.

This workshop is part of a five-year partnership between ISUFST and SDO Passi City, launched last year. This collaboration, dubbed “Resilience In Schools through Empowerment (RISE),” has already included a series of talks on school guidance, parenting, wellness, psychological first aid, and suicide prevention, all aimed at enhancing the psycho-emotional health of all teachers and learners in the component city.

The collaboration between ISUFST and SDO Passi City is formalized through a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) signed by ISUFST President Dr. Nordy Siason, Jr. and DepEd Passi City Superintendent Dr. Ma. Roselyn Palcat. The agreement ensures continuous partnership and future professional development initiatives, particularly in the areas of mental health and emotional support.

This partnership also plays a vital role in the broader Katatagan “Cuarto Distrito Mental Health and Resiliency” Program, initiated by Cong. Ferjenel Biron. This initiative aims to promote psychological wellness across the 4th District of Iloilo, integrating the Natasha Goulburn Foundation’s Katatagan ng Kalooban Tungo sa Pagsulong ng Kabataang Filipino modules into homeroom guidance for Grades 4-12, thus providing essential support for the region’s youth.

“The success of this workshop reinforces our shared commitment to the well-being of both our educators and students,” Dr. Siason said, emphasizing the ongoing importance of professional development support in the region.

With this landmark training, ISUFST and SDO Passi City are poised to continue strengthening their collaboration, empowering educators with the tools and resources to foster emotional resilience and cultivate a positive learning environment. (PAMMCO)

November 25 2024

ISUFST GAD Launches 18-Day Campaign to End Violence Against Women

ISUFST Admin Gender and Development

Tiwi, Barotac Nuevo, Iloilo — Today, November 25, the Gender and Development (GAD) Office of Iloilo State University of Fisheries Science and Technology (ISUFST) Main Campus – Tiwi Site launched the 18-Day Campaign to End Violence Against Women during the campus flag ceremony. The campaign, which runs from November 25 to December 12, 2024, aims to raise awareness and promote action against gender-based violence.

Through this initiative, ISUFST demonstrates its ongoing commitment to fostering a safer and more inclusive environment for all members of the university community.

#GenderAndDevelopment

#isufstisdafirst

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Photos by Jecel Mae To-ong and Carl Robert Barinos /Published by: Patrick Lance Nacion/MIS-PAMMCO)

September 23 2024

ISUFST and DLSU collaborate for Cervical Cancer awareness in Iloilo

ISUFST Admin Activities, Gender and Development

In a joint effort, the Iloilo State University of Fisheries Science and Technology (ISUFST) and De La Salle University (DLSU) conducted focus group discussions (FGDs) on cervical cancer awareness from September 13 to 18 in Iloilo City. The sessions took place in three barangays: Sto. Niño Sur, Arevalo, and Calumpang, Molo, and Balabago, Jaro, with 10 women participating in each community discussion.

The discussions were led by Prof. Michel Celeste, supported by Dr. Ronilo Aponte and Dr. Joana Paula Binas. The ISUFST R&D unit, facilitated the event, with contributions from R&D Director Jescel Boglosa Bito-onon, Eli Gene Tisuela and Charmane Nochete.

Four Richard T. Clark Fellows from the UK, US, and Philippines also attended, witnessing the valuable conversations. This initiative is part of the SGD localization project, showcasing a commitment to community health and education. (Jescel Bitoonon/PAMMCO/Published by: Patrick Lance Nacion/MIS-PAMMCO)

August 3 2024

Training-Workshop for Committee on Decorum and Investigation (CODI)

ISUFST Admin Activities, Gender and Development, Projects

Workshop for Committee on Decorum and Investigation (CODI) Members in Addressing Sexual Harassment Cases and Crafting of University Guidelines for CODI and Administrative Disciplinary Rules

Resource Speaker: Atty. Alma Kristina A. Amolar

August 1, 2024

Training-Workshop for Committee on Decorum and Investigation (CODI) Members in Addressing Sexual Harassment Cases and Crafting of University Guidelines for CODI and Administrative Disciplinary Rules

Resource Speaker: Atty. Chikki Ybiernas on CSC Rulings on Sexual Harassment Cases

August 2, 2024

Days Hotel by Wyndham lloilo, Gen. Luna Street, loilo City

Host: ISUFST Gender and Development Office

(Photos by Sir Edmer Bernardo and Lenirose Mondero)

May 31 2024

ISUFST leads the charge in Localizing SDGs; Women, Children Empowerment

ISUFST Admin Gender and Development, Projects, Research

The Iloilo State University of Fisheries Science and Technology (ISUFST) successfully conducted the Localizing SDG, Women, and Children Empowerment Orientation and Briefing this Tuesday, May 28, 2024, at Park Inn by Radisson, Diversion Road, Mandurriao, Iloilo City. This day-long event attracted numerous representatives from the academe, provincial agencies, and local government units (LGUs) across Iloilo’s five congressional districts.

Academic participants included delegates from West Visayas State University, Iloilo Science and Technology University, Northern Iloilo State University, University of the Philippines Visayas, and University of San Agustin. Representatives from provincial agencies were predominantly from municipal social work, gender and development, and social planning departments. The Iloilo Provincial Government was also represented by its entire Technical Working Group (TWG) executives. Notable attendees included San Enrique Mayor Rosario Mediatrix Fernandez and Carles Mayor Siegfredo Betita.

The project aims to assess the local implementation of national policies on women and children, promote their rights, and position Iloilo as a Gender and Development Local Learning Hub. It focuses on generating baseline knowledge, improving and sustaining women’s and children’s welfare and rights, and integrating the SDGs into the curriculum and community engagement among local academics and leaders.

The morning was dedicated to discussing the initiative’s depth and breadth. In the afternoon, participants engaged in a workshop on identifying and collecting localized data, with inputs presented during the plenary session.

Ms. Alma Ravena, co-chairperson of the Provincial Gender and Development (GAD) Council and representative of Iloilo Governor Arthur Defensor Jr., highlighted critical issues. “Three out of ten children can’t read,” she noted, underscoring the need for improved literacy and numeracy. She acknowledged the initiative’s support for creating safe spaces, addressing bullying in schools, and tackling teen pregnancy and health issues among young mothers. Ravena conveyed the provincial government’s full backing for ISUFST’s efforts, stating, “We will be backing you up.”

San Enrique Mayor Rosario Mediatrix Fernandez addressed the lack of empowerment among women, especially in less educated and remote families. “This is the time to make a more concerted effort. We must work for gender inclusivity and equality. If we create empowered women, we create empowered children and an empowered society,” she asserted.

Dr. Francisco Magno, the resource speaker and workshop facilitator, elaborated on the program’s outcomes and the importance of being globally aware and competitive while addressing local needs. He emphasized that targeting women and children ensures inclusive and sustainable societal progress.

ISUFST President Dr. Nordy Siason Jr. expressed gratitude to the participants and experts from De La Salle University and the Office of Senator Risa Hontiveros, a prime supporter of the initiative. He reaffirmed the university’s commitment to sustaining the project, highlighting its relevance to local governance and social justice, a guiding principle of ISUFST. “This initiative underscores our dedication to fostering local partnerships and enhancing the welfare of women and children,” he said.

Workshop facilitator Prof. Eddie Nuque emphasized ISUFST’s role as a beacon of knowledge and action, committed to the SDGs and societal transformation. He stressed the value of participant involvement from LGUs and the academe. “Your participation is invaluable, as you know your locale best. The data you provide are crucial to the process,” he remarked.

Earlier this year, ISUFST held its inception meeting and planning session, marking the start of this significant research and extension collaborative effort among local stakeholders in Iloilo. (Text by Herman Lagon/Photos by Ricky Ramos/PAMCO)

May 18 2024

Faculty and Staff Orientation on Gender Sensitivity and Gender Fair Language

ISUFST Admin Gender and Development, Projects

ISUFST Faculty and Staff Orientation on Gender Sensitivity and Gender Fair Language, May 17, 2024, Iloilo Grand Hotel, Iznart Street, Iloilo City, with Resource Speaker P/Col Ma. Cecilia Detablan.

Photos by Sir Ricky Ramos

March 29 2024

ISUFST, DLSU collaborate on the Localization of Women’s and Children’s Policies Project

iscof mis Gender and Development, Projects

De La Salle University (DLSU) and Iloilo State University of Fisheries Science and Technology (ISUFST) have joined forces in a groundbreaking initiative aimed at the localization of women’s and children’s policies.

With the guidance of the Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) Lab Director Dr. Franciso Magno, Senior Fellow Prof. Eddie Nuque, and Prof. Ian Jayson Hecita, ISUFST multi-million collaboration with DLSU marks a significant step forward in addressing gender and child-related issues at the grassroots level, particularly in the Philippines.

As an offshoot of the said project, a Policy Center, one-of-a-kind in Western Visayas, will be established at ISUFST grounds, focusing on the adoption of existing national and international policies concerning women and children to suit the unique socio-cultural contexts of various communities in the country.

Through interdisciplinary research and community engagement, the project has commenced, with teams from both universities actively engaging with local stakeholders and policymakers to facilitate the localization policies for women and children.

#ISUFST_ISDA_BEST Isufst Rdu Isufst Gender and Development Isufst Extension