What do human rights entail? Are they exclusively for either women or men, or are they reserved solely for the wealthy? Moreover, what about the rights of LGBTQIA+ individuals?
I am Apolinario Majait III, a teacher in a public school. I take pride in being a member of the LGBTQIA+ community. Despite my dedication to my profession, I have faced instances of bullying and criticism from colleagues, the school administration, and other high positions in DepEd.
They assert their authority by dictating hairstyles, determining appropriateness, and deeming certain women's clothing unsuitable for public school. I am transgender and have undergone Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT), completing my transition process. Consequently, I maintain long hair. Although my school uniform is designed for males, my hairstyle aligns with femininity.
In a memorandum signed by Usec Revsee Escobedo and Asec. Panchet Bringas, it REITERATES ‘the strict implementation of and compliance to DO 32, s. 2017, especially in consideration of the upcoming opening of School Year 2022-2023 and the gradual return of learners to in-person classes.
Republic of the Philippines
Department of Education
OFFICE OF THE UNDERSECRETARY GOVERNANCE AND FIELD OPERATIONS
OUGFO No. 2022-02-0153:
MEMORANDUM:
TO : ALL REGIONAL DIRECTORS
ALL SCHOOLS DIVISION SUPERINTENDENTS
ALL ELEMENTARY AND SECONDARY SCHOOL HEADS
ALL OTHERS CONCERNED FROM SUBJECT DATE AITY
FROM : ATTY. REVSEE A. ESCOBEDO
Undersecretary
Governance and Field Operations
FRANCIS CESAR B. BRINGAS
Assistant Secretary .
Governance and Field Operations
SUBJECT : Reiteration of DepEd Order No. 32, s. 2017, titled Responsive Basic Education Policy"
DATE : August 19, 2022
Pursuant to the Department of Education's mandate to ensure access to quality basic education for all, this Office reiterates DepEd Order No. 32, s. 2017, titled Gender- Responsive Basic Education Policy, which provides the "guidelines for Gender-Responsive Basic Education that shall allow the Department to integrate the principles of gender equality, gender equity, gender sensitivity, non-discrimination, and human rights in the provision and governance Of basic education."
The said Order enables the Department to undertake gender-mainstreaming to address basic education issues and concerns pertaining to gender and sexuality, to ensure that all learners are protected from all forms of gender-related violence, abuse, exploitation, discrimination, and bullying, and to promote gender equality and non-discrimination in all governance levels. Through the Gender-Responsive Basic Education Policy, the DepEd commits to the following:
1. Make its strategic framework gender-responsive;
2. Mainstream gender in all policies and programs, projects, and activities (PPAs);
3. Ensure gender parity in staffing and create an enabling work environment; and
4. Strengthen gender and development institutional mechanisms.
In this regard, this Office reiterates the strict implementation of and compliance to DO 32, s. 2017, especially in consideration of the upcoming opening of School Year 2022-2023 and the gradual return of learners to in-person classes.
Immediate and wide dissemination of this Memorandum is directed.
Ground Floor, Rizal Building, DepEd Complex, Meralco Avenue Pasig City 1600 Email: oure@deped.gov.ph; Website: www.4epeO-gov.ph Tel. No.: (02) 8633-5313; (02) 8631-8492
_______________________________________
DO 32, S. 2017 – GENDER-RESPONSIVE BASIC EDUCATION POLICY
The Department of Education (DepEd) issues the enclosed Gender-Responsive Basic Education Policy in line with its Gender and Development (GAD) mandate as stipulated in the 1987 Philippine Constitution, Republic Act (RA) No. 9710 or the Magna Carta of Women (MCW), RA 10533 or the Enhanced Basic Education Act of 2013, and the Philippines’ International Human Rights Commitments to the Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR), Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against Women (CEDAW), and the Convention on the Rights of the Child (CRC) among others.
Posted on June 29, 2017
29 JUN 2017
DepEd O R D E R No. 32 , s. 2017
GENDER-RESPONSIVE BASIC EDUCATION POLICY
To: Undersecretaries
Assistant Secretaries
Bureau and Service Directors
Regional Directors
Regional Secretary, ARMM
Schools Division Superintendents
Public and Private Elementary and Secondary Schools Heads All Others Concerned
1. The Department Of Education (DepEd) issues the enclosed Gender-Responsive Basic Education Policy in line its Gender and Development (GAD) mandate as stipulated in the 1987 Philippine Constitution, Republic Act (RA) No. 9710 or the Magna Carta of Women (MCW), RA 10533 or the Enhanced Basic Education Act of 2013, and the Philippines' International Human Rights Commitments to the Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR), Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against Women (CEDAW), and the Convention on the Rights of the Child (CRC) among others.
2. Through this policy, the DepEd commits to integrate the principles of gender equality, gender equity, gender sensitivity, non-discrimination and human rights, in the provision and governance of basic education. This is in line with the DepEd's mandate to ensure access to quality basic education for all.
3. This policy is consistent with the DepEd's vision, mission, values, and mandate.
4. This policy will remain in force and in effect unless repealed, amended, or rescinded. All issuances inconsistent with this Order are hereby rescinded.
5. Immediate dissemination of and strict compliance with this Order is directed.
LET's QUESTIONS
Reiteration of DepEd Order No. 32, s. 2017, titled Responsive Basic Education Policy
DepEd Order No. 32, s. 2017 is titled "Gender-Responsive Basic Education Policy." It is a policy issued by the Department of Education (DepEd) in line with its Gender and Development (GAD) mandate. The policy integrates the principles of gender equality, gender equity, gender sensitivity, non-discrimination, and human rights in elementary and high schools across the country.
The policy aims to ensure that both female and male students have equal access to learning opportunities, eliminate gender-based barriers and various forms of discrimination and intolerance, and promote a gender-responsive framework in all DepEd policies, programs, projects, and activities.
For more detailed information, you can refer to the official DepEd Order No. 32, s. 2017 or search for related resources on the topic.
How does DepEd ensure equal access to learning opportunities for both female and male students?
DepEd ensures equal access to learning opportunities for both female and male students through various measures. Some of these measures include:
1. Inclusive Education: DepEd promotes inclusive education that ensures equal access to learning opportunities for girls, boys, women, and men. This includes providing fair treatment in the learning process and ensuring equitable outcomes for all students.
2. Gender-Responsive Education: DepEd's Gender-Responsive Basic Education Policy aims to eliminate gender-based barriers and discrimination in education. It promotes a gender-responsive framework in all aspects of education, including curriculum, teaching methods, and school policies.
3. Protection from Gender-Based Violence and Bullying: DepEd's policies aim to protect students from gender-related violence, abuse, exploitation, discrimination, and bullying. This creates a safe and inclusive learning environment for all students.
4. Inclusive Teaching Strategies: DepEd encourages the use of inclusive teaching strategies that cater to the diverse needs of students. This includes developing cultural competence, building positive relationships, incorporating multicultural perspectives, and encouraging family and community involvement.
5. Professional Development for Inclusive Education: DepEd provides professional development opportunities for teachers to enhance their knowledge and skills in inclusive education. This ensures that teachers are equipped with the necessary tools to create an inclusive and equitable learning environment.
These measures collectively aim to ensure that both female and male students have equal access to learning opportunities, fair treatment in the learning process, and equitable outcomes. By promoting inclusivity and addressing gender-based barriers, DepEd strives to provide a conducive learning environment for all students.
What are some examples of gender-based barriers in education that DepEd aims to eliminate?
Gender-Based Barriers in Education and DepEd's Efforts to Eliminate Them. Gender-based barriers in education refer to obstacles or challenges that are specifically faced by individuals based on their gender, which can hinder their access to and participation in education. The Department of Education (DepEd) in the Philippines recognizes the importance of addressing these barriers and aims to eliminate them through various initiatives and policies. Here are some examples of gender-based barriers in education and DepEd's efforts to eliminate them:
1. Gender-Responsive Basic Education Policy
DepEd has implemented a Gender-Responsive Basic Education Policy that integrates the principles of gender equality, gender equity, gender sensitivity, non-discrimination, and human rights in elementary and high schools across the country. This policy ensures that both females and males have equal access to learning opportunities, and it aims to eliminate gender-based barriers and various forms of discrimination and intolerance.
2. Inclusion and Equal Opportunities
DepEd emphasizes the importance of providing equal opportunities for women in education. Education Secretary Leonor Magtolis Briones has highlighted education as a key element in breaking gender barriers and providing equal opportunities for women. DepEd recognizes that education plays a crucial role in empowering women and ensuring their equal participation in society.
3. Gender Awareness and Sensitivity Education
DepEd acknowledges the significance of gender awareness and sensitivity education in narrowing the gender disparity in education. Gender-sensitive education promotes an understanding of gender issues, challenges gender stereotypes, and fosters a more inclusive and equitable learning environment for all students.
4. Integration of Gender Equality Principles
DepEd commits to integrating the principles of gender equality, gender equity, gender sensitivity, non-discrimination, and human rights in the provision and governance of basic education. This integration ensures that gender-based barriers are addressed, and all students have access to quality education without discrimination.
5. Compliance with Gender and Development (GAD) Mandate
DepEd aligns its efforts with the Gender and Development (GAD) mandate stipulated in the Philippine Constitution, Republic Act (RA) No. 9710 (Magna Carta of Women), and other relevant laws. This mandate emphasizes the promotion of gender equality and the elimination of gender-based discrimination in various sectors, including education.
DepEd's initiatives and policies aim to create an inclusive and equitable education system where gender-based barriers are eliminated, and all students have equal opportunities to thrive. By addressing these barriers, DepEd strives to ensure that education is accessible to all, regardless of gender, and that every student can reach their full potential.
I hope this letter finds you well. I am writing to express my deep concern regarding the ongoing discrimination and marginalization faced by the LGBT community. It is disheartening to witness the continued prevalence of prejudice and injustice against individuals based on their sexual orientation, gender identity, or expression.
The fight for equality and acceptance of the LGBT community is not just a matter of civil rights; it is a fundamental human rights issue. Every individual deserves to live free from fear of discrimination, violence, or persecution simply because of who they are or who they love.
As members of society, it is our collective responsibility to stand up against all forms of discrimination and bigotry. We must strive to create a world where diversity is celebrated, and everyone is treated with dignity and respect, regardless of their sexual orientation or gender identity.
It is crucial that we actively challenge discriminatory laws, policies, and practices that perpetuate inequality and injustice. We must advocate for the implementation of comprehensive anti-discrimination laws and policies that protect the rights of LGBT individuals in all aspects of life, including employment, education, healthcare, and housing.
Furthermore, we must work towards fostering a culture of inclusion and acceptance within our communities, schools, workplaces, and religious institutions. By promoting understanding, empathy, and tolerance, we can create safer and more supportive environments for LGBT individuals to thrive.
We must also amplify the voices of LGBT individuals and allies, and provide platforms for them to share their stories and experiences. Through education, awareness-raising, and dialogue, we can challenge stereotypes and misconceptions, and promote greater understanding and acceptance.
In conclusion, I urge you to join me in the fight for equality and justice for the LGBT community. Together, we can create a more just and inclusive society where everyone can live authentically and without fear of discrimination or prejudice.
Thank you for your attention to this important issue.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
https://www.gawcams.com/2024/03/teacher-expresses-the-rights-of-the-lgbt-community-in-public-schools.html
