Participants from various establishments across Northern Mindanao take part in the Learning Session on Gender-Fair Language and Anti-Harassment Laws organized by RCMB-X.

An inclusive society is built upon the cornerstone of gender equality—a fundamental human right. Yet, despite years and decades of advancement, ingrained biases and systemic obstacles continue to impede individuals solely based on their gender.

Cagayan de Oro City – In line with the Board’s continued advocacy for gender equality and respectful workplace practices, a learning session on Gender-Fair Language, Gender Equality in the Workplace, and the salient features of Republic Act (RA) No. 7877 (Anti-Sexual Harassment Act) and RA No. 11313 (Safe Spaces Act) was conducted by the Regional Conciliation and Mediation Branch-X (RCMB-X) on June 23, 2025, at the De Luxe Hotel in Cagayan de Oro City.

The initiative, which was attended by 23 representatives from various establishments across Northern Mindanao, aimed to enhance awareness among employees and stakeholders on gender sensitivity, inclusive communication, and the prevention of workplace harassment in line with national gender advocacy policies and labor standards.

In her opening remarks, Regional Director Aerrine Marie Reyes underscored the vital role of gender advocacy in maintaining industrial peace and fostering harmonious workplace relations. “Gender fairness is not just your responsibility, but it’s everyone’s responsibility,” she stressed, encouraging collective action toward a more inclusive and respectful work environment.

Senior Labor and Employment Officer Junaliza Aragon of RCMB-X highlighted the importance of using inclusive and non-discriminatory language in both office communication and daily interactions during the discussion on gender-fair language. “While gender-fair language may be bothersome at first, when everyone makes an effort, it can lead to significant change,” she noted.

Meanwhile, Supervising Labor and Employment Officer Gwyneth Abella outlined the key distinctions and complementary provisions of RA No. 7877 and RA No. 11313, emphasizing their role in ensuring workplace protection and accountability.

To conclude the session, an open forum was held, allowing participants to raise practical concerns regarding the application of gender-fair practices within their respective organizations. The panel of speakers, with the support of Dir. Reyes, addressed the participants’ queries and provided actionable recommendations for integrating the concepts discussed into everyday workplace operations.

This activity reinforces the Branch’s continued efforts to align with the NCMB’s commitment to gender mainstreaming, rights-based governance, and the promotion of safe, inclusive, and harassment-free work environments.end/mvp/dmg