Written by Maybel Langbayan
Photographs courtesy of May Ann Moyamoy
To strengthen its stand in promoting inclusivity and employee well-being, the University of Baguio, through its Human Resource Management Center, successfully conducted an institutional seminar titled “Mind Matters: GAD and the Modern Workplace” targeting the 278 Non-teaching employees of the University.
The event was held at the Centennial Hall, featuring awareness-building activities and structured learning sessions focused on Gender and Development (GAD) and mental health in the workplace, which are two important pillars of establishing a resilient and progressive academic community in the university.
A symbolic and engaging launch
The activity was formally opened on February 13, 2026, through the installation of a vibrant and interactive photo booth at the Centennial Hall. More than a decorative feature, it symbolizes the University’s strong stance on gender equality and mental health awareness. The installation of the photo booth encourages the employees to participate actively, reflect, and show solidarity in advancing inclusive workplace practices.
The main event, which is a seminar, was conducted on February 20, 2026, with two batches of 278 non-teaching employees (Morning and Afternoon Session). This activity, “Mind Matters: GAD and the Modern Workplace”, was an initiative of the Human Resource and Management Center and was supported by the University Administration.
Addressing critical workplace gaps
Gaps in gender sensitivity and mental health awareness among non-teaching personnel were identified based on HRMC reports and institutional assessments. Understanding their key function in the smooth running of institutions, the University tailored the seminar to support specific learning experiences that were aligned with its Vision, Mission, and commitments.
It is also aligned with national requirements such as the Commission on Higher Education (CHED) Memorandum Order No. 1, s. 2015, or the directives to mainstream GAD in higher education institutions, and DepEd Order No. 32, s. 2017 or the Gender-Responsive Basic Education Policy, among others.
Rooted in the research from the World Health Organization, which highlights that a gender-equitable and mentally healthy workplace leads to higher employee satisfaction and improves the performance of the organization. The seminar emphasized that being able to invest in people ultimately strengthens institutions.
Seminar highlights expert insights and active engagement
The seminar featured two distinguished resource speakers. The first speaker for the 1st batch, which is the morning session, is no other than Atty. Michele Gayagay-Lee, Attorney V of NAPOLCOM discussed the legal and ethical considerations in maintaining safe and inclusive environments. The second speaker for the afternoon session was no other than Sir Junix Jerald Delos Santos, Assistant Professor of the University of Baguio and currently finishing his Doctorate, who shared his expertise on GAD principles and their relevance in everyday workplace interactions and the intersection of gender and mental health within the organizational context.
The participants attentively engaged in the discussions, actively joining the group activity and reflective sharing of thoughts designed to deepen their understanding and encourage practical application of the seminar. The interactive components ensured active participation, which addresses the limited interaction that is an identified risk of the event. During the group activity, which involved two stages of games, participants demonstrated teamwork and strategic thinking. The discussion sessions were highly interactive, with participants actively asking questions and sharing insights. The event concluded with participants sharing their reflections and key takeaways, reinforcing the seminar’s practical impact.
This event supports the advancement of the Sustainable Development Goals. “Mind Matters” is strongly aligned with several United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, also known as SDGs, specifically the following:
- SDG 4: Quality Education
- SDG 5: Gender Equality
- SDG 3: Good Health and Well-being
- SDG 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth
- SDG 10: Reduced Inequalities
- SDG 16: Peace, Justice and Strong Institutions
The way the University is incorporating these SDGs into various institutional activities only demonstrates that sustainability is not merely theoretical, but is being practiced within the university workforce.
Beyond a seminar
Not merely a compliance with a requirement or a professional development session, “Mind Matters: GAD and the Modern Workplace” embodies a cultural statement. It upholds that the non-teaching employees are not merely operational support but are a valued partner in achieving excellence in the institution. Through the dialogues, education, and empowerment, the University of Baguio continues to foster a healthy workplace where inclusivity thrives, where different voices are being heard, and the mental well-being is sheltered. It highlights that, when an institution nurtures its stakeholders, excellence naturally follows.
