UDM Empowers First-Generation Female College Students: Paving the Way for Gender Equality

April 1, 2022— Universidad De Manila, Philippines

On April 1, 2022, the Universidad de Manila (UDM) took significant strides towards
inclusivity by hosting a public consultation titled “UDM LGBTQIA+: Building Paths for Unity
in a Diverse Community” at the UDM Library. The event, led by the Office of Student Affairs
(OSA) and the Gender and Development (GAD) office, focused on the implementation of
Manila City Ordinance No. 8695, known as the Manila LGBTQIA+ Protection Ordinance of
2020, aligning with Sustainable Development Goal 5 (SDG 5) – Gender Equality.

The consultation brought together UDM officials, including Dr. Virginia I. Berganio, Dean of
OSA, Dr. Rhodora Bernal, Director of GAD, and Karl G. Villena, Adviser of BAHAGHARI,
along with LGBTQIA+ student leaders and members of the UDM community. Discussions
centered around the challenges faced by LGBTQIA+ students, particularly issues of
inclusivity and discrimination. The event concluded with plans to address these concerns,
such as the renovation of a gender–neutral restroom and the official recognition of
BAHAGHARI, a student organization supporting LGBTQIA+ rights.

In August 2022, UDM took concrete action by converting one of its restrooms into a gender–
neutral facility and formally recognizing BAHAGHARI as an official student organization.
These initiatives reflect the university’s commitment to creating a more inclusive, diverse,
and supportive environment for all students, regardless of their gender identity or sexual
orientation.

#UDMForEquality
#LGBTQIAPlusRights
#SDG5
#InclusionMatters
#GenderNeutralSpaces
#UDMDiversity