DELIVERED BY DR. JUNIELITO R. ESPANTO DURING THE SEMINAR ON ANTI-SEXUAL HARASSMENT ACT (R.A 7877) AND SAFE SPACES ACT (R.A 11313) WITH NSTP/CWTS STUDENTS OF ABUYOG COMMUNITY COLLEGE ON NOVEMBER 26, 2023

My highest respect to our Executive Chairman Hon. Mayor Lemuel Gin K. Traya, our very active College President Dr. Clemelle L. Montallana, Executive Vice-President Dr. Asuncion M. Villote, Vice-President for Administration and Finance Prof. Sheila Posas, Vice-President for Academic Affairs Dr. Edita Vale, our very dynamic NSTP Coordinator Mr. Alwin John Matanda,  CWTS Coordinator Mr. Marlon Cainong,  NSTP Instructors Ms. Dulse Amor Cutura, Mr. Regie Redoña, and Mr. Gilbert Ruela, and of course our  esteemed resource speaker this morning Sgt. Moima Mae B. Amac of Philippine Air Force, our dear students-participants, ladies and gentlemen… a pleasant morning to all of us.

Today, I am delighted to extend a warm and meaningful welcome to all of you to this seminar on the Anti-Sexual Harassment Act and Safe Spaces Act. We are honored to have each one of you here, joining us in our collective efforts to create a safe and equitable environment for all.

In today’s world, where issues of gender-based discrimination and harassment persist, it becomes imperative for us to come together, educate ourselves, and take proactive steps towards fostering a culture of respect and safety. This seminar aims to empower you with the knowledge and tools needed to navigate these complex issues, ensuring that campuses become secure spaces for every individual.

Throughout this seminar, we will delve deep into the provisions of the Anti-Sexual Harassment Act and the Safe Spaces Act, ensuring a comprehensive understanding of the legal framework established to protect individuals from any form of harassment. We will explore case studies, engage in thought-provoking discussions, and learn from expert perspectives to sharpen our collective awareness and sensitivity.

Moreover, this event provides a unique opportunity for us to amplify our voices as advocates for change. By standing up against sexual harassment and cultivating safe spaces, we can create a ripple effect that extends far beyond the boundaries of our college. Together, we can eradicate the harmful culture that perpetuates silence and fear, and replace it with one that encourages dialogue, respect, and empathy.

We encourage you all to actively participate, ask questions, and share your experiences during the seminar. Your voice matters, and it contributes to shaping the conversations and actions that will ultimately drive transformative changes in our college and society.

Let us seize this moment as an opportunity to ignite a powerful movement of awareness, understanding, and unity. Together, we have the potential to make a lasting impact, ensuring future generations experience a world free from the shackles of sexual harassment.

Once again, welcome, and we are grateful for your presence and commitment towards building a safer college community.

Thank you very much!