Partido State University (ParSU), through its Gender and Development (GAD) Office in collaboration with the Committee on Decorum and Investigation (CODI), actively led two meaningful activities on March 26, 2026, as part of the National Womenโs Month celebration. The university conducted the Womenโs Leadership and CODI Orientation on Sexual Harassment, themed โWE Empower; WE Lead," in the morning, followed by the Orientation on Sexual Harassment Cases in the afternoon at the CED Review and Training Center and RDE Training Hall.
In his welcome message, University President Dr. Arnel B. Zarcedo underscored that creating a safe and responsive academic community is a shared responsibility. He encouraged participants to embody ethical leadership, practice respect in everyday interactions, and recognize the vital role of women in shaping the university's direction and growth. โWomen are not only part of this institutionโyou are among its strongest pillars,โ he emphasized.
Hon. Fe Cecelia B. Turiano-Magistrado, Presiding Judge of the Regional Trial Court, 5th Judicial Region in Libmanan, Camarines Sur, served as the resource speaker. She guided participants through key laws on sexual harassment, clarified the essential role of CODI in addressing complaints, and emphasized the importance of empowering individuals to uphold dignity and respect in both academic and workplace settings. "At the center of our session is a simple truth: access to accurate information guides how we act, make decisions and lead; that is precisely what makes this seminar so important," she highlighted.
Dr. Michael A. Clores further emphasized that sexual harassment has no place in our institutions, classrooms, or communities. He underscored the importance of upholding dignity and creating an environment where every individual feels safe, respected, and valued. He also highlighted the need to foster accountability and build a culture grounded in trust. More importantly, he called on everyone to move beyond awareness and commit to action, reminding participants that true leadership requires courage, passion, and a shared responsibility to protect one another.
In the afternoon session, Hon. Turiano-Magistrado delivered a comprehensive discussion on handling sexual harassment cases, including their types, classifications, and corresponding penalties. She walked participants through proper reporting procedures, explained legal safeguards, and reinforced the shared responsibility of institutions in protecting the rights and dignity of every individual.
Faculty members and university personnel actively engaged in the morning session, while students, together with officials from the Office of Student Affairs and Services, participated in the afternoon orientation. The open forum encouraged meaningful dialogue, allowing participants to raise concerns and gain clarity on reporting mechanisms, case processes, and available support systems.
Through these initiatives, ParSU continues to strengthen its commitment to gender sensitivity, ethical leadership, and a safe, inclusive academic environment. More importantly, the university nurtures empowered individuals who lead with integrity and contribute to building respectful, equitable, and resilient communities.
