September 24, 2024 — Aurora State College of Technology (ASCOT), through the initiative of the Office of Student Affairs and Services, conducted a session for student leaders from various courses in the ASCOT Zabali Campus gymnasium. Themed “Creating Safe Environment: The Safe Spaces Act and Anti-Sexual Harassment Awareness,” the event aimed to empower students in fostering a respectful campus culture.On behalf of Dr. Ma Luz F. Cabatan, Vice President for Academic Affairs, Dr. Alma S. Bayudan, Director of the Office of Student Affairs and Services, opened the event by emphasizing the importance of safe spaces within the college community. She urged students to advocate for a culture of respect.
Following Dr. Bayudan’s introduction, PCpl. John Erick S. Aringo from the Philippine National Police discussed anti-sexual harassment awareness. He shared statistics and real-life scenarios to illustrate the prevalence of sexual harassment in educational settings, providing advice on recognizing and responding to such incidents.“Hindi kailangan mangyari ang sexual harassment para masabing ito ay sexual harassment; ang mga salitang hindi angkop o mga kilos na nakakabastos ay sapat na,” he remarked.
The program also featured Atty. Karl Thomas M. Olivar, ASCOT’s Legal Officer, who explained the Safe Spaces Act. He detailed the legislation’s provisions designed to protect individuals from all forms of sexual harassment in educational and public spaces. “Sa Bawal Bastos Law, kahit na biro lang, mahalaga ang naramdaman ng taong sinabihan mo o ginawan mo. Hindi sapat na nagbiro kayo; ang mahalaga ay kung paano siya naapektuhan, maging ito man ay sa salita o kilos,” Atty. Olivar stated.
In the afternoon session, Dr. Bayudan discussed CHED Memorandum Order Number 63, Series of 2017, highlighting its relevance for student leaders conducting off-campus activities.