PSA IX HOLDS GENDER AND DEVELOPMENT (GAD) CAPACITY BUILDING AND TEAM-BUILDING ACTIVITIES

The Philippine Statistics Authority IX conducted its Gender and Development (GAD) Capacity Building activity alongside the 2025 Mid-Year Performance Review on 25 June 2025 at Yakan 3, Garden Orchid Hotel, Zamboanga City. The event featured a timely and relevant lecture on the Policy on the Committee on Decorum and Investigation (CODI) and Sexual Harassment in the Workplace, delivered by Atty. Sheena Mae C. Tajala, Attorney IV from the Legal Division of the Civil Service Commission IX. The activity concluded with engaging team-building sessions, reinforcing the importance of camaraderie, unity, and collaboration among PSA IX employees. 

During the lecture on Sexual Harassment in the Workplace, the resource speaker highlighted the importance of understanding the term “harassment” and how it manifests in various forms, especially in professional environments. Real-life scenarios were shared to illustrate how harassment occurs, how it contributes to a hostile work environment, and the psychological and physical impacts it can have on victims. Relevant laws, such as Republic Act 7877 (Anti-Sexual Harassment Act of 1995) and provisions in the Labor Code of the Philippines, were also discussed to emphasize that legal remedies exist to address such behavior.

Meanwhile, the lecture on the Policy on the Committee on Decorum and Investigation (CODI) focused on the procedures for handling sexual harassment cases and identified the people and agencies responsible for managing such matters. The speaker outlined the internal mechanisms established by government offices, including PSA IX, to properly address and investigate complaints. The step-by-step process; from filing a complaint to investigation, findings, and recommendations that was explained in detail, demonstrating CODI’s critical role. The speaker also clarified the structure, functions, and composition of CODI members and addressed questions about past incidents in the office.

After the lectures, the group transitioned to the team-building activities, led by game masters Meirose Manlangit and Jacob Shaquille T. Wee, and co-facilitated by Jose Ramon A. Mangaoang. A variety of fun and interactive games were enjoyed by PSA IX employees. The activities concluded with two energetic groups: Team Red (James Red Angels) and Team Blue (Blue Ken Eagles). Team Red emerged as Champion, while Team Blue placed Second. Prizes were awarded by Regional Director Mewchun W.S. Pamaran during the Fellowship Night held the same day. Overall, George B. Serilla, OIC CRASD Chief, concluded the GAD activity with a closing remarks.
 

MEWCHUN WS. PAMARAN
Regional Director

GBS/YSG/AAE