𝐄𝐦𝐩𝐨𝐰𝐞𝐫𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐀𝐥𝐥: 𝐓𝐀𝐔 𝐆𝐀𝐃 𝐟𝐨𝐫𝐦𝐚𝐥𝐢𝐳𝐞𝐬 𝐀𝐝𝐯𝐨𝐜𝐚𝐜𝐲 𝐆𝐫𝐨𝐮𝐩 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐌𝐞𝐧

𝐌𝐈𝐋𝐄𝐒𝐓𝐎𝐍𝐄𝐒 | 𝐄𝐦𝐩𝐨𝐰𝐞𝐫𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐀𝐥𝐥: 𝐓𝐀𝐔 𝐆𝐀𝐃 𝐟𝐨𝐫𝐦𝐚𝐥𝐢𝐳𝐞𝐬 𝐀𝐝𝐯𝐨𝐜𝐚𝐜𝐲 𝐆𝐫𝐨𝐮𝐩 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐌𝐞𝐧

In a historic first for the institution, the Tarlac Agricultural University (TAU) Gender and Development (GAD) Office convened the inaugural General Assembly of its MOVE (Men Opposed to Violence Against Women Everywhere) KATROPA (KAlalakihang Tapat sa Responsibilidad at Obligasyon sa Pamilya) organization at the Continuing Education Center on 4 December.

The landmark gathering formally affirmed the University’s commitment to mobilizing men as proactive partners in advancing gender equality, preventing violence, and upholding shared family responsibilities. It marked a significant evolution in TAU’s holistic approach to gender advocacy. While traditional initiatives had largely focused on empowering women and LGBTQIA+ members, this assembly signaled a strategic shift toward engaging men directly, not only as allies but as empowered leaders within their respective homes, workplaces, and communities.

GAD Director Dr. Ma. Theresa B. Nardo set the tone with her opening message, underscoring the program’s pivotal role in cultivating a safer and more inclusive campus environment. This was later reinforced by TAU President Silverio Ramon DC. Salunson, who shared personal insights and practical advice with the male workforce.

A major highlight of the program was the oathtaking of the organization’s first set of officers: Dr. Angelo P. Guillermo (President), Engr. Benjie M. Dela Vega (Vice President), Dr. Rene G. Nanit (Secretary), Mr. Julius C. Consul (Treasurer), Mr. Christian D. Robillos (Auditor), and Mx. June Adel S. Guerrero (Public Information Officer). Their formal induction signified a collective pledge to lead TAU’s male community in this transformative advocacy.

Providing the assembly’s intellectual and legal backbone, Atty. Steve Russel P. Regua delivered a comprehensive lecture on the “Laws on Violence Against Women (VAW),” equipping participants with essential knowledge to recognize, prevent, and address gender-based violence. 

Another key moment was the ratification of MOVE KATROPA’s Constitution and By-Laws, led by Dr. Guillermo, which officially institutionalized the organization within the University’s governance structure and solidified its mandate for sustained advocacy, education, and outreach.

Balancing its solemn objectives with community-building, the event also featured interactive games and raffle draws that reinforced themes of solidarity and shared responsibility. Vice President for Research, Extension, and Training Dr. Edmar N. Franquera concluded the program with remarks synthesizing the day’s insights and charting a forward-looking vision for MOVE KATROPA’s future impact across the University and beyond.

#SmartTAU #GreenandGlobal #GAD #MOVEKATROPA #SDG5 #SDG10 #SDG17

Article and Photos | Information Unit