Caraga State University (CSU), through the Gender and Development (GAD) Office, continues its Pride Month 2026 celebration by hosting the Strengthening Safe Spaces: Empowerment, Wellness, and Advocacy Forum today, June 25, 2026, at the H.E.R.O. Learning Commons Activity Loft. CSU students, personnel, and advocates from Queer Directive Butuan City attended the forum for a day of learning, dialogue, and advocacy to promote safe, inclusive, and affirming spaces for everyone.
The Chief of the Division of Strategic Foresight and Management, Engr. Stephanie Mae B. Salcedo-Albores formally opened the forum and welcomed the participants. In her opening message, she encouraged everyone to become active partners in building communities where every individual is treated with dignity and respect.
The first learning session, “SOGIESC and the Law,” was delivered by Atty. Jason Paul C. Magarin, Attorney IV of the Commission on Human Rights (CHR). He discussed the legal foundations that protect the rights of persons with diverse Sexual Orientation, Gender Identity, Gender Expression, and Sex Characteristics (SOGIESC), emphasizing the importance of equality, human rights, and non-discrimination.
Following an advocacy video presentation, participants attended the second session, “Ensuring Safe and Affirming Spaces for Transgender Individuals: Proper and Safe Way of Transitioning,” facilitated by Dr. Nueya Joy A. Perucho, Psychiatrist and Associate Professor IV of Caraga State University. She shared evidence-based information on gender affirmation, mental health, and the importance of creating supportive environments for transgender individuals.
The afternoon sessions focused on strengthening institutional responses to discrimination and promoting inclusive learning spaces. Dr. Adriene Mae J. Castaños, Regional Partnership Focal Person of the Department of Education (DepEd) Caraga, discussed strategies for cultivating inclusive educational environments. Dr. Frederick Amihan, GAD Focal Person from the Commission on Higher Education (CHED) Caraga, highlighted the role of higher education institutions in advancing Gender and Development initiatives and inclusive campus policies.
The forum concluded with an interactive open forum, allowing participants to engage directly with the resource speakers, followed by a closing message from Ms. Marjorie L. Escartin, CSU GAD Focal Person, who encouraged everyone to continue serving as advocates for equality, inclusion, and respect both within and beyond the University.
