Written by MSUNGAD / Aeldred John Tañahura
The Gender and Development (GAD) Seminar for the teachers and staff of Laguindingan National High School was successfully held on October 2, 2025, at Don Arc Beach Resort and Catering Services in Tubigan, Initao, Misamis Oriental. With the theme “Strengthening Teachers’ Role in Digital Safety and Gender-Responsive Education for Inclusive School Communities,” the activity was held in line with DepEd Order No. 32, s. 2017, also known as the Gender-Responsive Basic Education Policy.
One of the highlights of the program was the insightful talk delivered by Assoc. Prof. Desheree Judena G. Preciado, GAD Coordinator and Director of the Institute for Peace and Development in Mindanao (IPDM), served as the distinguished resource speaker. Her session on Creating Safe and Supportive Classrooms: Teachers’ Role in Gender-Responsive Education emphasized educators' crucial responsibility in building classrooms that are safe, inclusive, and supportive of all learners. She underscored that gender-responsive education is not only a practice but a commitment to shaping a culture of equality and respect within schools.
In her closing message, Assoc. Prof. Preciado inspired the participants with these words:
“As we close, let us remember that creating safe and supportive classrooms is not just a strategy, but a commitment. Each of us, as educators, carries the power to shape how young people see themselves and others. By practicing gender-responsive education, we are not only teaching lessons inside the classroom—we are modeling respect, equity, and compassion that ripple into the wider community. A safe classroom allows every learner to feel seen, valued, and capable of reaching their fullest potential. So, let us go back to our schools with renewed purpose: to be the teachers who listen without bias, who uplift without favoritism, and who empower every learner—regardless of gender—to dream and to achieve. In doing so, we are not just teaching subjects; we are building a generation rooted in equality, dignity, and peace.”
The session ended with a self-assessment of gender-responsive education, focusing on the following areas:
Curriculum and Teaching Materials
Teaching Practices
Student Support and Participation
School Policy and Community Engagement
Classroom Environment
Professional Development and Reflection
Results revealed that Laguindingan National High School demonstrates a gender-responsive approach to education.
The seminar was deemed a success. Participants expressed appreciation for the relevance of the topic and the practical insights shared, which they can apply in their respective schools. It also renewed their sense of purpose in advocating for safe and supportive learning environments. Indeed, through this event, Laguindingan National High School reaffirmed its dedication to fostering an education system where every learner is respected, valued, and empowered.
