In celebration of National Women’s Month, the Office of the Provincial Agriculturist (OPAg) successfully conducted the Gender and Safe Spaces Orientation: RA 11313 and RA 7877 for All Employees on March 24, 2026 at the OPAg Training Hall, Paradise Heights, Telaje, Tandag City.

The activity highlighted the importance of promoting a safe, respectful, and gender-responsive workplace for all employees. It also strengthened awareness on key gender-related laws, including the Safe Spaces Act (RA 11313), the Anti-Sexual Harassment Act (RA 7877), and the Anti-Violence Against Women and Their Children (VAWC) Act (RA 9262), ensuring that all personnel are well-informed of their rights, responsibilities, and available reporting mechanisms.

The orientation was facilitated by Ms. Pia B. Curada, Social Welfare Officer II of the Provincial Social Welfare and Development Office (PSWDO), whose expertise provided valuable insights on gender sensitivity, legal frameworks, and the importance of creating safe spaces in the workplace.

Through interactive discussions, case analysis, and group sharing, participants gained a deeper understanding of gender concepts and the importance of shared accountability in preventing gender-based harassment and violence. The activity emphasized that maintaining a safe and inclusive workplace is a collective responsibility of both men and women.

The orientation was attended by OPAg personnel, including regular, contractual, and job-order employees, as well as supervisors, division heads, and members of the GAD Focal Point System (GFPS), reinforcing leadership commitment to gender equality and inclusivity in the workplace.

This initiative reflects OPAg’s continued commitment to fostering a work environment grounded in respect, dignity, and equality, while upholding a zero-tolerance policy against any form of harassment and violence. It also forms part of the office’s active support to the Gender and Development (GAD) Program and the nationwide observance of Women’s Month.