DOrSU Concludes Women’s Month with Signature “Serbisyo para kay Juana”
Davao Oriental State University (DOrSU) wrapped up the National Women’s Month Celebration with its unique and homegrown culminating event dubbed “Serbisyo para kay Juana” on March 28. Held across various university campuses, the celebration transformed into a festive gathering as employees were treated to a delightful array of free goodies and an assortment of self-care services.
More than a simple treat, Serbisyo para kay Juana was a meaningful gesture of appreciation for all Juanas and Juans of the university. It celebrated their daily contributions and highlighted the spirit of unity and fellowship among advocates who continue to champion gender equality and women’s empowerment.
The 2025 National Women’s Month Celebration carried the theme “Babae sa Lahat ng Sektor, Aangat at Bukas sa Bagong Pilipinas,” which underscores the critical role of women from all walks of life in shaping a progressive, inclusive, and forward-looking nation. The theme resonates strongly with DOrSU’s commitment to amplifying women’s voices and fostering equitable participation across all sectors of society.
Throughout the month of March, the DOrSU Center for Gender and Development (GAD), under the steadfast leadership of its Director, Dr. Jeralyn N. Hemillan, alongside GAD Focal Person Dr. Mary Fil M. Bauyot — who also serves as the President of the Regional Gender and Development Advocates’ Network (RGAN) XI — spearheaded a lineup of exciting and impactful events in celebration of National Women’s Month. These included thought-provoking symposia and seminars on gender awareness and women’s rights, a free cervical cancer screening in partnership with the City Health Office of Mati, and the university-wide observance of Purple Wednesdays, where employees and students proudly wore purple to express solidarity and a shared commitment to gender equality.
These efforts were made possible through the invaluable support and collaboration of DOrSU’s strong network of partners, including Davao Oriental Provincial Governor’s Office under the leadership of Governor Niño Sotero L. Uy, City of Mati Mayor’s Office led by Mayor Michelle N. Rabat, Office of Congressman Cheeno Miguel D. Almario, City Health Office of Mati, and DOSCST Multipurpose Cooperative.
Dr. Jeralyn N. Hemillan expressed her heartfelt gratitude to all stakeholders and participants, emphasizing that the success of this year’s celebration was a shared achievement of everyone who took part in planning, supporting, and participating in the month-long activities. “Together, we are creating a more inclusive and empowering environment for all,” she shared.
University President Dr. Roy G. Ponce likewise expressed his full and unwavering support for the celebration. Under his leadership, the university has remained steadfast in advancing initiatives that promote gender mainstreaming and inclusivity across all facets of its operations, reinforcing DOrSU’s role as a champion of equitable and transformative education.
The month-long celebration stood as a vibrant testament to DOrSU’s enduring commitment to gender equality and women’s empowerment—capping off March with smiles, solidarity, and a renewed drive to empower every Juana and Juan in the university and beyond.
