Boac, Marinduque, Philippines — Participated by female barangay officials from the Barangays of Balogo, Bantad, Buliasnin, Lupac, Maligaya, Pili, Poras, Tabi, Tabigue, and Tanza, Boac, Marinduque, the Gender and Development (GAD) Unit headed by Dr. Maria Morena V. Santos spearheaded the activity titled “Women Empowerment Mentorship Cum Outreach Program: Strengthening Social Capabilities and Leadership Skills in Barangay Governance,” in culmination of the observance of the 18-Day Campaign to end violence against women.

The activity aims to address the gender issue on underrepresentation of women barangay officials in terms of social capability in the community, as identified in the University GAD Plan and Budget (GPB) for FY 2025.

The gender issue roots from the cultural and social norms where women barangay officials reinforce old fashioned gender roles and stereotypes that weaken their authority and restrict their chances for leadership and equal involvement in community decisions.

Hence, three (3) mentorship programs were established and delivered by the College of Arts and Sciences led by Dean Ernesto M. Largado to build the social capabilities and leadership skills of women specific to barangay governance:

• Mentorship 1: Women in Service – Strengthening Community Involvement through Social Work Values by Ms. Norilie L. Dela Cruz
• Mentorship 2: Finding Your Voice – Empowering Women through Effective Communication by Asst. Prof. Jerome L. Lingon
• Mentorship 3: Leading with Balance – Emotional Intelligence and Guidance for Women Leaders by Dr. Rosalyn J. Dasco

Inspired by the University President, Dr. Diosdado P. Zulueta, the participants vowed to end VAW and expressed with full force their strong commitment to stop violence against women.

[MM Santos/GAD | Photos: H. Archihon]

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