The 每日大赛网址首页进入 (CvSU) through the Gender and Development Resource Center (GADRC), conducted a webinar titled 鈥�EQuality Online: It鈥檚 Safe Space Time!鈥� on August 19, 2025, via Video Conferencing and Facebook livestreaming.
This webinar aims to raise awareness on gender-based online risks and highlight the importance of creating inclusive, respectful, and safe digital environments. It also seeks to educate participants on relevant laws and policies that protect individuals from gender-based online harassment and discrimination. Furthermore, the activity intends to promote digital citizenship practices that are gender-responsive, ethical, and socially responsible, while encouraging participants to become advocates for gender equality and digital safety within their communities and across various online platforms.
Ms. Emeline C. Guevarra, Director of the Information and Communication Technology Office (ICTO), warmly welcomed the participants and expressed her sincere appreciation for their presence. She underscored the relevance and urgency of the session鈥檚 theme, noting that in today鈥檚 increasingly connected world, it is crucial to address the challenges and responsibilities that come with our digital interactions.
Ms. Guevarra highlighted the importance of making online spaces not only accessible, but also safe, respectful, and inclusive for all individuals. She stressed that as technology continues to evolve, so must our efforts to cultivate environments鈥攂oth virtual and physical鈥攚here everyone feels valued, heard, and protected. She encouraged the participants to actively engage with the session, as it serves as a vital step toward building a culture that upholds digital dignity and mutual respect.
Mr. John Vandrick A. Diaz, Provincial Cybersecurity & PNPKI Focal Person DICT 鈥� Cavite discussed the first topic titled 鈥淐lick Responsibly: Promoting Ethical and Inclusive Online Behavior.鈥� In his discussion, he defined cybersecurity as the practices and technologies designed to safeguard networks, devices, and personal information from unauthorized access, attacks, and damage. In today’s digital world, cybersecurity has become more important than ever. As we increasingly rely on the internet for communication, shopping, banking, education, and work, protecting our data and online presence has become a critical concern.
Mr. Diaz reiterated that to stay safe online, it is essential to develop and practice safe online habits. The impact of poor cybersecurity can be severe. Victims may face financial loss, damage to their reputation, or even emotional distress. For companies, a security breach can lead to loss of customer trust, legal consequences, and operational downtime. As digital threats continue to evolve, so must our efforts to protect ourselves.
The second topic, 鈥淪afe Spaces in the Digital World: RA 11313 (Safe Spaces Act),鈥� was presented by Ms. Ethel Joy Aryhen Regondula, a faculty member from the College of Criminal Justice (CCJ). She opened her discussion by introducing the policy declaration of Republic Act No. 11313, also known as the Safe Spaces Act.
Ms. Regondula emphasized Section 4, which defines Gender-Based Sexual Harassment in Streets and Public Spaces. She explained that such acts involve any unwanted and uninvited sexual actions or remarks made toward any person, regardless of the perpetrator鈥檚 motive. These actions鈥攃onsidered 鈥渂astos鈥� or inappropriate under the law鈥攁re punishable offenses, underscoring the importance of respectful behavior in both physical and digital public spaces. She said that promoting a safe and respectful digital space begins with practicing respectful communication, avoiding offensive language, jokes, and content.
To formally conclude the webinar, Mr. Mel Gabriel M. Talon, GAD Coordinator from ICTO encouraged the participants that educating others about digital safety and responsible behavior helps foster a more inclusive and respectful online environment.
The webinar served as an essential platform for knowledge exchange and collaborative engagement among students and faculty from various disciplines. Cybersecurity is a shared responsibility in the digital age. By understanding online threats, adopting safe habits, and staying informed, we can reduce our risks and help create a safer internet for everyone. (by Lynnette M. Tecson)
