Philippine Fisheries Development Authority (PFDA), through the PFDA – Gender and Development Focal Point System (PFDA-GFPS), conducted a Gender Sensitivity Orientation (GSO) to general support personnel, held at the PFDA Central Office Conference Room, Diliman, Quezon City.

In line with the 2023 National Women’s Month Celebration (NWMC) with the theme “WE for gender equality and inclusive society", this orientation aims to inform all the participants about practicing gender equality and inclusivity for women and everyone (WE) in the workplace regardless of ability, status, and situation.

PFDA-GFPS Overall Head and Public Information Division Chief Mr. Mc Christian Julius A. Macaranas II served as the resource person for the orientation.

Mr. Macaranas discussed various topics, including the basics of Sexual Orientation, Gender Identity and Expression, and Sexual Characteristics (SOGIESC) and how we can provide a safe space for everyone visiting PFDA.

In addition, Mr. Macaranas noted that as the people working at the frontlines of the agency, the participants should understand the basics of SOGIESC. He said that “if we learn how to embrace diversity and equality in the workplace, we can have a very beautiful office that is a safe space for all.”

Moreover, Mr. Macaranas talked about gender stereotyping in various institutions and gender as a social construct. He also discussed different legislation covering the rights of women and girls against physical and emotional abuse.

Nineteen (19) security guards, utility personnel, and drivers actively participated in the gender sensitivity orientation.

(Mark Angelo N. Perez – Public Information Division)