Ms. Vien Jamaica D. Samson, CPAG faculty member, reiterated the perspectives and real-life scenarios of GBSH in various settings and what constitutes harassment such as the seemingly harmless remarks in violation of personal spaces and feelings. Consequently, Ms. Samson highlighted the Local Government Unit's role in imposition the law and how these legal consequences are enforced against GBSH.
"In making our municipality safe, not just for Gerona residents but for all. We can do it! Because I believe that the people of Gerona are respectful, disciplined, and, above all, compassionate towards one another," Engr. Eloy Eclar, Gerona municipal mayor, expressed during his opening statement prior to the conduct of the program.
According to Mayor Eclar, he has high hopes to transform the Municipality of Gerona into a secure and inclusive environment for all in view of the undertakings being implemented to raise awareness against GBSH.
In consonance with his ambition, an open forum followed through after the plenary talk on RA 11313 which gave a platform to the participants to air their concerns and suggestions. This paved the way towards the collection of insights contributory to the policymaking process of the aforesaid LGU.
Moreover, an establishment of a committee tasked to devise strategies for information dissemination on the Safe Spaces Act and its implementation within the LGU’s jurisdiction,.
The seminar concluded by encouraging participants to reflect on their newly acquired awareness and to be mindful of their actions, emphasizing the importance of respecting society's diversity, including perceptions, values, and beliefs, as well as the importance of respecting everyone, regardless of their background, sexual orientation, or preferences.
The extension activity is in accordance with the Sustainable Development Goals, particularly SDG 4: Quality Education and SDG 5: Gender Equality as it enhances awareness of RA 11313, the Safe Spaces Act, and actively supports the objective of transforming the Municipality of Gerona into a secure and welcoming environment for everyone.
