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Driven by the vision of creating an empowered and inclusive academic community, the Tarlac Agricultural University (TAU), through the office of Gender and Development (GAD), spearheaded the GAD Agenda Formulation Workshop at the Farmersβ Training Center (FTC) Function Hall from 16 to 17 October.
During the first day of the workshop, Ms. Maribel C. Ramales, TAU-GAD Assistant Director, steered the discussion in identifying gender-related issues and explored ways to integrate gender perspectives into institutional policies, programs, and operations. It was then followed by a consultation and brainstorming session about enhancing awareness and understanding of GAD concepts in the context of higher education led by a seasoned GAD speaker, Philippine Commission on Women (PCW) - National Gender and Development Resource Program (NGRP) Batch 9 certified, former TAU GAD Director, and now serving as the Director of External Linkages and International Affairs (ELIA) office, Dr. Marianne P. Villaruel.
Dr. Villaruel delivered a presentation that focused on advancing the formulation of the GAD Agenda for another six years, covering 2026-2031, and further enhanced the knowledge and capacity of the GAD Focal Point System (GFPS) by aligning the agenda with the national and institutional priorities.
She further emphasized that the activity was not merely a compliance exercise but a strategic effort to institutionalize gender responsiveness in the University. βThe formulation of theΒ TAU GAD Agenda 2026β2031 marks another step in our continuing journey toward equality and empowerment. As we build on the gains of our previous agenda, we remain committed to making gender responsiveness a way of life in TAU,β Dr. Villaruel stated.
Throughout the sessions, the participants reviewed past GAD accomplishments, analyzed gender gaps, and proposed evidence-based strategies to address emerging issues. The formulation process underscored TAUβs commitment to transparency, accountability, and sustainability in implementing gender-responsive programs.
Upon joining the GFPS and being appointed as the President of TAU MOVE-KATROPA (Men Opposed to Violence Everywhere - Kalalakihang Tapat at Responsable sa Pamilya), Dr. Angelo P. Guillermo shared his insights on the groupβs contributions and expectations, saying, βAs a representative of TAU MOVE-KATROPA, I am glad to say that our initiatives in fighting violence against women and fostering community involvement for men have been taken into consideration throughout the planning of the GAD office. We are holding out expectations that the work of the group will result in significant outcomes for our institution and influence the lives of all the stakeholders.β
Meanwhile, Dr. Ma Theresa B. Nardo, Director of the GAD office, underscored TAUβs steadfast commitment to gender equality and inclusivity as she highlighted the importance of the GAD Agenda 2026β2031 in shaping the Universityβs direction.
βThe GAD Agenda 2026-2031 laid down the road map we tread as an institution as we work towards becoming a GAD transformative HEI (Higher Education Institution) in the next six years. The road is long, but every journey begins with a single step, and in TAU, we walk together so that our goals become our reality. We continue to do our best in our units to make GAD an advocacy and a way of life so that we live in equality, respect for each other, and responsibility for whatever is set for us to work on,β Dr. Nardo added.
As the workshop concluded, TAU reaffirmed its dedication to creating a university environment that values equality, empowerment, and respect for all. The finalized GAD Agenda 2026β2031 will guide the Universityβs initiatives toward fostering inclusive growth and advancing gender equity in higher education.
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Article and Photos | Information Unit
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