By: Stephanie Joy K. Pogongan
The University’s Guidance and Counseling Office (GCO) organized a webinar titled “Who’s at Risk? Our Health, Our Future!” to UC students in January 2023. The event aimed to raise awareness and educate students about the realities of teenage pregnancy. The webinar was attended by a total of 192 online participants from various colleges.
The webinar featured Mr. Alfredo C. Cañero Ill, an Information Officer from the Philippine Commission on Population (POPCOM-CAR), as the resource speaker. He provided critical insights into the rising rates of teenage pregnancy in the Philippines specifically, in Baguio City. Mr. Cañero discussed the contributing factors, consequences, and potential solutions to this pressing issue.
In the same manner, in February 2023, GCO conducted another webinar titled “Gender Sensitivity: Reshaping Attitudes, Perception, and Behavior towards Gender Roles” to UC students. The webinar aimed to raise awareness about the impact of gender on behavior and to promote sensitivity toward different identities.
Mr. Pete Tan, a counselor and facilitator from the Love Yourself Organization, served as the resource speaker. He discussed the importance of gender sensitivity, presenting the Philippines’ ranking in gender equality and sharing a video on children’s perceptions of gender. Mr. Tan explored various gender roles, stereotypes, and the prejudices associated with them. He also highlighted key laws promoting gender equality, such as the Magna Carta of Women and the Anti-Sexual Harassment Act.
He noted that marginalized groups, including women and LGBTQIA+ individuals, were more vulnerable to HIV due to discrimination and social inequalities. This lack of awareness can hinder their access to healthcare and support. Mr. Tan also highlighted key laws promoting gender equality, like the Magna Carta for Women. It’s important to discuss health issues like HIV and AIDS within a gender-sensitive framework to address the barriers faced by these communities. GCO stated that these webinars aimed to raise awareness about sexual and reproductive healthcare, empowering the youth with knowledge on prevention, particularly regarding challenges like teenage pregnancy. By continuing conversations about gender sensitivity, equality, and inclusivity, UC students would learn to embrace sexual and gender differences and would determine them as a shared responsibility. GCO added that these initiatives were crucial for creating a healthier future, as today’s youths were influenced by historical events that shape their experiences and who they would be.
