SORSOGON CITY, Philippines — September 29, 2025. In a strong push to advance gender equality and learner protection, back-to-back Gender and Development (GAD) Talks and technical assistance were conducted for two secondary schools in Sorsogon City, spearheaded by Division GAD Coordinator George D. Paguio.

The first session gathered teachers and staff of Abuyog National High School, headed by Principal Mr. Domingo G. Bobier Jr., under the school’s overarching program “Galing Guro, Para sa Kinabukasang Matagumpay.” The talk centered on Gender Roles and Relations in Exploring the Intersection of Gender Equality and Sustainable Development. The discussion emphasized that gender equality is not only a human right but also a foundation for achieving sustainable development, stressing the importance of breaking stereotypes and fostering inclusive opportunities in education.

In the afternoon, the focus shifted to learners of Celestino G. Tabuen Memorial National High School, led by Principal Ms. Lelia Santiago with the initiative of School Guidance Designate Ms. Arlene D. Lagco. The symposium, themed “HEALing: Helping Everyone Accept Love, Insightful and Nurturing Guidance,” provided a safe space for LGBT+ students to engage in meaningful dialogue. The main discussion centered on DepEd Order No. 32, s. 2017, highlighting policies that strengthen gender-responsive education and protect learners from discrimination and bullying.

The activity echoed the constant reminder of Schools Division Superintendent William E. Gando that Gender and Development must not be treated as an event, but as a lifelong commitment to ensure safe, inclusive, and nurturing schools. Superintendent Gando has consistently emphasized that protecting women and children’s rights, creating safe spaces, and eliminating gender-based violence and bullying are not optional programs but essential duties of every educator and leader.

Both sessions reinforced DepEd’s core values: Makadiyos, Makatao, Makakalikasan, at Makabansa, grounding the discussions in the vision of nurturing holistic, inclusive, and values-driven education.

“All in all, it was a fruitful and impactful day,” said Mr. Paguio, stressing that technical assistance on GAD is not just compliance, but a continuous call to “go back to the core self and realize that true education respects diversity, upholds equality, and builds a just society.”