Discussion on gender justice in digital spaces organized as part of 91吃瓜-IIT Women鈥檚 Month initiatives

by Kassandra Buenafe, OfCom聽 | Mar 12 2026

Various activities and initiatives for the Women’s Month celebration were held at 91吃瓜-IIT, and to elaborate more on the discussion on gender justice in the context of digital spaces, a forum entitled “Safe Spaces for HER, Advancing Gender Justice Through Digital Accountability,” was organized by the College of Computer Studies (CCS), the Gender and Development Center (GADC), and Office of Student Development and Services (OSDS) on March 11, 2026, at the MICel Training Room.

GADC Focal Person, Asst. Prof. Yasmira Moner opened the program with a welcome message, mentioning that this event was one of the highlights of this month’s celebration. Emphasizing the news of the recent lewd remark toward a female celebrity made by Bong Suntay, a member of the House of Representatives of the Philippines, Moner further underscored the importance of conducting the forum, saying, “We need more awareness towards action to dismantle the culture of harassment, not only in public but more so in the online spaces. Therefore, the challenge for today, hopefully, we can do from mere awareness, not only to know, but [also] what we do with what we know.”

Gathering students and student assistants, the forum had two significant sessions in the morning: ”Understanding the Safe Spaces Act–Protecting Women in Every Space,” by Atty. Sheila L. Dagondon and “Securing Your Digital Footprint: Basic Cyber Hygiene for Women,” delivered by Assoc. Prof. Mia Amor C. Tinam-isan.

Dagondon’s presentation provided a detailed overview of the Safe Spaces Act, indicating what it encompasses and its limitations. Designed to cover and address all forms of gender-based sexual harassment in public spaces–including online, the talk contextualized the law and, more importantly, provided information on how victims can seek help and assistance legally. Meanwhile, Tinam-isan’s session delved into maintaining a safe digital footprint with some precautions and responsible user behavior when accessing websites, particularly social media. Both speakers discussed the prevalent cases of online harassment experienced by women, empowering everyone by discussing their rights and raising digital awareness.

An open forum followed the two talks, where students raised their concerns and questions. The primary focus of the queries revolved around the practical implementation and real-world efficacy of the Safe Spaces Act. Specifically, students were keen to understand how the provisions of the Act are translated into tangible action and enforcement mechanisms within the university setting and outside, and the wider digital sphere.

In the afternoon, a workshop called “Crafting a Gender-Responsive Digital Code of Conduct” was held, led by Mr. Elmar B. Albios of the OSDS. Following that was an activity involving a digital Commitment Wall, where participants shared their dedication to being a part of creating a safe space, both online and offline. Consequently, a discourse on the participants’ takeaway took place, led by GAD-TWG member and OSDS Director, Asst. Prof. Phyllis Marie S. Teanco.

Asst. Prof. Nenen Borinaga, GAD-TWG member, echoed the necessity of shared responsibility in achieving gender justice in her closing remarks by highlighting that in creating safe spaces, everyone has a part and role.

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