On March 21, 2025, Isabela State University Roxas Campus hosted a significant seminar entitled “Gender and the Law: LGBTQ+ Women’s Rights and Legal Protection” at Xentro Mall, Roxas, Isabela. The event was spearheaded by Dr. Rosalyn L. Bautista, the Campus Administrator, alongside Associate Professor Joey C. Cereno, the Gender and Development (GAD) Focal Person. This seminar was particularly significant as it coincided with the 2025 National Women’s Month celebration, themed “Babae Sa Lahat Ng Sektor, Aangat Ang Bukas Sa Bagong Pilipinas,” highlighting the importance of women’s contributions across various sectors.
The seminar attracted a diverse audience that included members of the Philippine National Police (PNP), personnel from the Water District and DPWH – Roxas District Office, as well as students, faculty, and staff from the university. The program commenced with a prayer followed by the singing of the national anthem, “Lupang Hinirang.” Ms. Wendy A. Martin, an alternate GAD focal person, delivered a warm welcome to all participants and underscored the significance of engaging in discussions on equality amidst ongoing struggles for rights.
Assistant Professor Joey C. Cereno provided opening remarks expressing gratitude for collaborative efforts that made this event possible. He conveyed an inspiring message on behalf of Dr. Bautista emphasizing that this seminar transcended mere discussion; it aimed to translate awareness into actionable advocacy. She urged attendees to leverage this platform to educate others and advocate for equal protection and opportunities for every woman and LGBTQ+ individual.
The event commenced with an intermission that showcased a performance by Mr. Alvincent E. Dulig from Students Gadvocates, setting a vibrant tone for the discussions to follow. This was succeeded by an introduction from Ar. Acee S. Manangan, the campus architect, who presented the keynote speaker, Atty. Karenjing C. Fernando, a Public Attorney II at the Roxas District Public Attorney’s Office. In her keynote address titled “Gender and the Law: Women’s Rights and Legal Protections,” Atty. Fernando elucidated various legislative frameworks designed to safeguard women’s rights while highlighting systemic inequalities prevalent in critical areas such as workplace dynamics, healthcare access, and personal safety concerns.
Following this insightful discourse, Atty. Lyndon P. Duarte, also from the Roxas District Public Attorney’s Office, provided an overview of LGBTQ+ rights and existing legal protections within the Philippines. He emphasized that although there is no specific legislation dedicated solely to protecting LGBTQ+ individuals, general protections are afforded under “The Safe Spaces Act,” commonly known as the Anti-Bastos Law. This crucial piece of legislation addresses gender-based sexual harassment across public spaces, workplaces, and educational institutions.
As discussions concluded, attendees engaged in an open forum, sharing personal experiences and raising questions about gender discrimination. The narratives highlighted the intertwined struggles of women and LGBTQ+ individuals, emphasizing a collective advocacy for dignity, respect, and justice within society.
The seminar’s closing remarks by Mr. George P. Lacambra underscored gratitude towards the speakers for their invaluable insights. This event aligns with several Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 5 (Gender Equality), SDG 10 (Reduced Inequalities), SDG 16 (Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions), and SDG 3 (Good Health and Well-Being).
These goals collectively underscore the necessity of legal protection and human rights advocacy for all genders and sexual orientations, reinforcing the significance of equality in fostering inclusive societies.
