每日大赛网址首页进入 (CvSU) through Gender and Development Resource Center (GADRC) headed by Dr. Ma. Cynthia Rundina- Dela Cruz and in collaboration with CvSU Historical and Cultural Museum, successfully conducted an in-person seminar titled 鈥淪trength of Filipino Women through History鈥� on December 9, 2025 at the CvSU Historical and Cultural Museum.
The seminar aimed to honor the strength and contributions of Filipino women throughout history, and to raise awareness on laws and initiatives protecting women鈥檚 rights and welfare. It also sought to to promote the 2025 18-Day Campaign to End VAW subtheme, 鈥淪TOP VAW, Look Beyond the Silence, Listen with Compassion,鈥� by fostering empathy and active engagement, and to encourage advocacy and collective action toward a VAW-free and gender-equal society.
To formally open the program, Dr. Dela Cruz delivered her welcoming remarks where she encouraged the participants to actively engage in the discussions, reflect on their respective roles, and translate the insights gained into meaningful actions within their communities. She further emphasized the significant role of women in shaping the nation, highlighting the importance of empowering women as a vital pillar of national development.
Dr. Jeffrey Alfaro-Lubang, a professor from De La Salle University, delivered an insightful discussion on the Strength of Filipino Women through History. In his lecture, he emphasized the pivotal role of women who stood at the forefront of the nation鈥檚 struggles and development, highlighting their courage, leadership, and unwavering commitment to freedom and social justice. He cited notable historical figures such as Melchora Aquino, revered as the Mother of the Katipunan for her selfless support to Filipino revolutionaries through shelter, care, and moral encouragement, and Gabriela Silang, a fearless revolutionary leader who continued the fight for independence and became a symbol of women鈥檚 bravery and resistance.
Dr. Alfaro-Lubang further acknowledged the countless Filipino women鈥攂oth recognized and unsung鈥攚hose contributions have significantly shaped the nation鈥檚 history and progress, reinforcing the enduring strength and influence of women in building the Filipino nation. He further emphasized the vital role of women in political leadership, citing figures such as Senator Miriam Defensor Santiago, who served with distinction as a legislator, jurist, and stateswoman. Renowned for her sharp intellect, unwavering integrity, and fearless stance against corruption, Senator Santiago left a lasting legacy in Philippine governance and law. He highlighted how women in contemporary society have become increasingly empowered and visible across various sectors, despite the persistent challenges and issues they face as leaders. He mentioned that women today play crucial leadership roles not only in politics, but also in education, governance, the workforce, and other spheres of society. Through their competence, resilience, and dedication, women continue to break barriers, challenge stereotypes, and redefine leadership. This growing presence of women in decision-making spaces reflects significant progress toward gender equality, while also emphasizing the need to continuously address existing issues and strengthen support systems that enable women to lead effectively and inclusively.
In his discussion, he facilitated an activity designed to assist the University in identifying and navigating appropriate courses of action through the development of a safety mapping focused on the well-being of individuals within the campus. Through this exercise, various issues and gaps were identified, highlighting areas that require immediate and sustained attention through gender and development initiatives. The participants actively engaged in the activity by sharing and discussing areas within the University premises where they feel safe and less safe. Through this collaborative process, the University may be able to develop relevant projects, activities, and programs that are aligned with its commitment to fostering a safe, inclusive, and gender-responsive academic environment.
To formally conclude the activity, Associate Professor Joether A. Francisco, Head of the CvSU Historical and Cultural Museum, delivered his closing remarks where he expressed his sincere gratitude to the GADRC for the meaningful collaboration and partnership, and conveyed his continued willingness to support and take part in future initiatives that the GADRC may develop. He also extended his appreciation to the participants for their active participation and for openly sharing their insights during the collaborative activity. According to him, the ideas and perspectives raised provided valuable inputs that can guide the University administration in identifying and addressing existing gaps, further strengthening the institution鈥檚 commitment to creating a safe, inclusive, and gender-responsive academic community. (by Lynnette M. Tecson)
