As part of its activities in observance to the 18-Day Campaign to End Violence and Women and their Children, the Philippine National Oil Company (PNOC) Gender and Development Focal Point System (GFPS) organized a series of capacity-building activities from November 29 to December 7, 2023, aimed at deepening employees’ understanding of gender-related laws, issues, and advocacy.
The first virtual training, held on November 29, tackled “Policies/Issuances Fostering GAD Advocacy” and included an orientation on “Special Leave Benefits for the Public Sector” with Atty. Reynilda T. Cabahug-De Leon as the resource speaker.
On November 30, Maria Belinda L. Cubelo led the second session, focusing on “Basic GAD Concepts and Issues”, providing participants with foundational knowledge to strengthen gender mainstreaming efforts.
The third and final training, conducted on December 1, centered on Republic Act 11313, or The Safe Spaces Act, with Atty. Menandro P. Leongson Jr. discussing its provisions to ensure safe and inclusive environments in both public and private spaces.
Healthy Women, Empowered Communities
In addition to these GAD-focused training, the GFPS also organized two special health and awareness talks. On December 5, Dr. Maria Lorena L. Santos delivered a virtual lecture on Human Papillomavirus (HPV), educating employees about the virus, its risks, and the importance of vaccination.
Finally, on December 7, the PNOC Mini Theater hosted the session “Digging the Past to Deal with the Present: Unearthing Crucial Lessons from Abusive Situations” with Glenda C. Resurreccion. The talk aimed to shed light on the real-life experiences of victims of violence against women (VAW), challenging misconceptions that silence victims due to stigma, shame, or fear. It encouraged employees to speak out, break taboos, and contribute to a workplace and society where women are free from violence and treated equitably.
Distribution of Children’s Books
Recognizing the role of youth in fostering a VAW-free Communities, PNOC GFPS also organized a special activity featuring recorded reading sessions and the distribution of children’s books to the dependents of select employees aged 8 to 15.
The featured book, Niña Inocente by Augie Rivera, tells the story of an unsuspecting child who falls victim to the dangers of online sexual exploitation of children (OSEC). The narrative serves as a powerful tool to raise awareness among young readers about the risks of online abuse and the importance of safety in the digital space.
Through this series of activities and initiative, PNOC GFPS reaffirms its commitment to advancing gender equality, promoting employee welfare, and fostering a safe, inclusive, and respectful environment for all.