Central Mindanao University Academic Paradise of the South
To strengthen institutional mechanisms for addressing gender-based concerns, Central Mindanao University (CMU) participated in a benchmarking activity and specialized training on handling sexual harassment cases on August 26–28, 2026.
The three-day learning engagement began on August 26 with a benchmarking visit to the Gender Hub of Ateneo de Manila University, where UCGAD Chief Teresita H. Borres and GAD Technical Working Group (TWG) member and Women’s Desk Officer Ms. Iyren D. Neri were welcomed by Gender Hub Director Dr. Mira Alexis P. Ofreneo and her team.
The Ateneo team shared its best practices in handling Gender-Based Sexual Harassment (GBSH) cases, including institutional policies and the CODI Alert mechanism. They also introduced the CMU representatives to other offices handling gender-related concerns, including the University Office of Decorum and Investigation (UODI) and the University Gender and Development Office, highlighting the importance of coordination and clear referral pathways.
“The benchmarking gave us a clearer picture of how policies can be translated into concrete systems for prevention, reporting, investigation, and support. These are valuable practices we can learn from as we continue strengthening our mechanisms at CMU,” Neri said.
Meanwhile, on August 27–28, the representatives attended the GAD Training Course on Administrative Disciplinary Rules on Sexual Harassment Cases organized by Responders Support Group Inc., with Atty. Ela Rose P. Aseda as the resource speaker.
The participants actively engaged in the training activities, including case studies, group discussions, technical writing, and presentation of group outputs. Topics covered included the Anti-Sexual Harassment Act, Safe Spaces Act, administrative procedures, investigation and fact-finding, penalties, and prescriptive periods.
The benchmarking and training strengthened the participants’ capacity to contribute to gender-responsive policies, effective case management, coordinated referral systems, and institutional accountability.
The initiative advances SDG 5 – Gender Equality and SDG 16 – Peace, Justice and Strong Institutions, supporting efforts to create a safer, more inclusive, and accountable university environment. [Iyren Dalipe Neri]
