PCW Exec. Dir. on BukSU’s Women’s Month Celebration: “Envision women in technology and innovation”

MALAYBALAY CITY – Philippine Commission on Women Executive Director, Atty. Kristine Rosary E. Yuson-Chavez, emphasized the importance of envisioning women particularly in the field of technology, innovation, and Information and Communications Technology (ICT) during the Bukidnon State University’s Women’s Month Kick-Off Celebration on March 8, 2023.

“This 2023, we particularly call attention to the need for equality and inclusivity in the field of technology, innovation and ICT,” Atty. Chavez, special guest speaker, said in her message during the Women’s Month Celebration Kick-Off program held virtually via Zoom.

The Philippine Commission on Women leads this annual observance and they further promote the twin goal of Gender Equality and Women Empowerment or (GEWE).

Atty. Chavez cited two major issues that the PWC identified related to Science and Technology and Innovation (STI) and Information and Communication Technology or (ICT).

First, she said, is that women and girls are not sufficiently benefiting from advances in technology, innovation and ICT, hence, we must encourage agencies and development partners to work on maximizing the gains of women in this aspect.

“We want girls to have the digital skills and tools that can boost their learning,” she said.

Second, she said, is that the PCW calls for increased participation of women in higher level technical and leadership positions in technology, innovation, and ICT.

“We envision an equal path for them to enroll in related courses and provide equal support to women researchers and innovators,” she said.

Dr. Joy M. Mirasol, University President, pointed out that the fight for gender equality is not just a one-time event but a continuous effort.

“We must all commit ourselves to this cause and work towards creating a society where everyone, regardless of gender and identity, is given a chance to thrive and succeed,” she said.

Mr. Dante S. Victoria Jr., Vice President for Administration and Finance, also encouraged everyone to remember the strong women who paved the way for us and continued to inspire us and broke stereotypes to achieve our goals.

“Let us celebrate the achievement of women and to empower one another and achieve greater heights,” he said.

Dr. Rea Rita R. Muegue, Human Resource and Management Unit Head, also said that one must have a strong technological connection to succeed in one’s career or chosen fields since the gender equality issue focused in Digital Space where everything happens.

“Let us work together for a stronger organization, a Smart BukSU, a robust world, and a better future for all with equal rights for women and men,” she said.

The University Gender and Development Resource Center Unit, headed by Dr. Marichu B. Montecillo, facilitated the said celebration. During the program, she presented the activities they have organized for the whole Month of March which were the following:

All Women Mobile Legends Tournament, We-Men, Shy-Guy, Kung Anu-ano na! Ano ba talaga, A Showcase of IP Women’s Story of Empowerment, Mind Your Own Business Forum, Seminar on Work-Life Balance and Time Management of BukSU Employee, Quiz Bowl, Seminar on Economic Empowerment of Women, Amazing Race, and BukSU Inter-collegiate Debate Competition. The BukSU Community and students attended the Kick-Off virtual program and was livestreamed in UGRC Facebook page. (Mr. Carl Eian V. Nogra/Information Unit Intern)