Gender Sensitivity Training on the New Code and Rules begins the year for School CODIs

The University Code of Decorum and Administrative Rules on Sexual Harassment, Other Forms of Sexual Misconduct, and Inappropriate Behavior (Code and Rules) was promulgated in response to the Safe Spaces Act and in consultation with various stakeholders from all units of the University community. It took effect on September 26, 2020. 

 

As part of the implementation of the Code and Rules, a Gender Sensitivity and Onboarding Training was held for members of the School Committee of Decorum and Investigation (School CODI) last January 16, 2021. Members of the School CODI will serve as the main body that will investigate student-to-student violations involving Sexual Harassment, other forms of Sexual Misconduct, and Appropriate Behavior. 

 

The training covered a number of topics including: sexual and gender-based violence (SGBV) and its effects; overview of the Code and Rules, University structure, and processes; and guidelines for handling cases of sexual violations. Representatives of the various University offices currently working to implement the Code and Rules served as the resource speakers.

 

Ms. Angelique Villasanta, a licensed psychologist from the University Gender Hub, tackled SGBV and its physical, psychological, and social effects. She reiterated that the experience of SGBV is not singular and should be examined in the correct context.

 

“We can be that safe space for them by making them feel safe, validating their story, showing them that we are sensitive with their triggers, and allowing them to exercise their control and direct their own healing and justice process,” she said.
 

 

The second speaker, Atty. Nina Patricia Sison-Arroyo of the University Legal and Compliance Office gave an overview of the Code and Rules. The new policy defines the behaviors, structures, and institutional mechanisms in place. The new policy, she stressed, “applies to all members of the University community.”

 

“It is important to build a culture that will respect one another, will not discriminate on the basis of gender, and that will ensure that we comply with the procedural requirements provided by the law.”

 

Atty. Alma Pavia, representing the Office of Human Resource Management and Organization Development, talked about the roles and functions of SCODI: “SCODI serves as the voice of the sector they represent.”  As such, it is important for members to fully understand their responsibilities.

 

She encouraged SCODI members to work in tandem with all units in the University to ensure that the “learning and working environment here in the University is a safe space for everyone.”

 

The final speaker, Dr. Mira Alexis Ofreneo of the University Gender Hub, provided a set of guidelines to help SCODI members in their roles.

 

“We are dealing with people and we are safeguarding their well-being,” she said. As such, it is vital to ensure that the investigative proceedings are safe— preserving the healing/recovery of the complainant and treating the respondent with care and respect.

 

Dr. Maria Elissa Lao, Chair of the University GAD Focal Point System, served as the training host and moderator and promised that the next steps include GST and onboarding for the University Community in an organized manner : “We are going to onboard the University Community via GST in particular segments.”