July 10, 2025 | Irosin, Sorsogon — With a strong commitment to advancing gender equality and fostering a mentally healthy work environment, the Department of Education (DepEd) Sorsogon City Division successfully held its Gender and Development (GAD) Mid-Year Performance Review and Team Building Activity at Nature’s Hot Spring Resort in Monbon, Irosin, Sorsogon on July 10, 2025.

Over 100 personnel from the division office gathered for the one-day event aimed at evaluating GAD performance, promoting inclusivity, and reinforcing camaraderie among staff. With generous transportation support from the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) Region V, headed by Regional Director Joel R. Defeo, participants were transported from Sorsogon East Central School to the venue and back.

Opening Program: Renewed Vision for GAD

The day officially began at 9:00 AM with an opening program led by emcees James Nabong and Vivian Paz. After the national anthem and an invocation, ASDS Angelou Pura welcomed the attendees, followed by Chief Florena Deuna who outlined the objectives of the activity.

The GAD focal point, George Paguio, delivered the GAD Report, which revealed the division’s gender sensitivity score based on the Harmonized Gender and Development Guidelines (HGDG). The report emphasized that while progress has been made, DepEd Sorsogon City must work harder to reach the ideal score in promoting gender-responsive programs.

In his inspirational message and vision setting, Schools Division Superintendent (SDS) William Gando echoed the importance of striving for GAD excellence, encouraging everyone to pursue a more inclusive and equitable work culture. He also stressed the significance of mental wellness, stating:

“It is only when we can soar our highest, in the best versions of ourselves, that we can produce the best outputs in our office.”

Chief Elena Hubilla concluded the morning session with closing remarks and final reminders.

Meaningful Interactions and Team Building

The event’s interactive segment began with a “Getting-to-Know” activity led by SDS Gando, who engaged participants in identifying themselves by age groups and civil status to foster connection across demographics. This was followed by a “Human Bingo” game that added energy and fun before transitioning to the GAD updates.

After a shared boodle fight lunch, participants took part in team building games that strengthened their unity and collaboration. The Blue Team, led by SDS William Gando, emerged victorious after a series of challenges that tested communication, problem-solving, and teamwork.

A Night of Music and Gratitude

The day concluded on a high note with a musical performance by the SDO Band, creating an atmosphere of relaxation and joy. Laughter, singing, and the spirit of togetherness filled the evening as participants from all age groups and gender identities celebrated a productive and meaningful day.

This event was made possible through the efforts of the GAD Focal Point System of the Division, reinforcing the commitment of DepEd Sorsogon City to mainstreaming gender and development not just in policies, but in the everyday experience of its personnel.

Thank you, SDS William Gando, and all who made this initiative a success.