CMU joins CHED Mindanao Cluster training on CODI case handling
Central Mindanao University (CMU) strengthened its capacity to address gender-based sexual harassment (GBSH) through its participation in the Commission on Higher Education (CHED) Mindanao Cluster Training and Orientation on the Committee on Decorum and Investigation (CODI), held on October 6–8, 2026, in Koronadal City, South Cotabato.
Representing CMU were Dr. Teresita H. Borres, Gender and Development (GAD) Chief and CODI member, and Ms. Iyren D. Neri, GAD Focal Person-in-Charge, Women’s Helpdesk, and CODI Secretariat.
The training gathered representatives from state universities and colleges (SUCs) across Mindanao to enhance their understanding of the legal and policy frameworks on GBSH, CODI roles and responsibilities, case-handling procedures, and gender-responsive and trauma-informed approaches to investigation.
During the workshop, Neri presented the case analysis and recommendations of Group 1, composed of representatives from CMU, Sulu State University, Davao del Sur State College, and Agusan del Sur State University. Following the format provided by the organizers, the group presented its assessment and proposed recommendations for handling the case.
The cases discussed during the workshop were based on actual incidents, underscoring the real-life challenges faced by institutions in addressing gender-based sexual harassment. This made the exercises particularly relevant, allowing participants to examine case-handling procedures and apply gender-responsive, trauma-informed, and survivor-centered approaches to institutional responses.
The exercise provided participants with an opportunity to demonstrate their understanding of appropriate case assessment, documentation, and recommendations while recognizing the importance of due process and confidentiality in handling sensitive cases. The activity was conducted through the CHED Gender and Development Unit under the Gender and Development Focal Point System, in line with Republic Act No. 9710, or the Magna Carta of Women, and CHED Memorandum Order No. 1, series of 2015.
CMU’s participation reinforces its continuing efforts to strengthen CODI mechanisms, promote due process and confidentiality in handling cases, and foster a safe, inclusive, and gender-responsive university environment.
The initiative supports Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 5: Gender Equality and SDG 16: Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions.[Iyren Dalipe Neri]
