DOrSU undergoes GADTimpala validation by PCW, CHED evaluators
Davao Oriental State University (DOrSU) underwent a two-day on-site validation led by the Philippine Commission on Women (PCW) and the Commission on Higher Education (CHED) as part of its bid for national recognition under the prestigious GADTimpala Awards.
The validation, conducted on April 21–22, 2026, was carried out by representatives from the Policy Development, Planning, Monitoring, and Evaluation Division (PDPMED) of the Philippine Commission on Women, namely April Mae Anne L. Mariano, Patricia Beatriz R. Azanza, and Kathleen Shane I. Gonzales. Joining the validation virtually were Allen Domingo of the Technical Services and Regional Coordination Division (TSRCD) of PCW, along with Engr. Angelica Dolores and Dr. Ann Dafielmoto from the Commission on Higher Education.
The first day of validation focused on a comprehensive review of DOrSU’s institutional systems, including its gender and development (GAD) plans and budgets, policies, programs, and monitoring mechanisms. Evaluators examined how gender mainstreaming is embedded across the university’s core functions—instruction, research, extension, and governance—and how these translate into measurable outcomes aligned with CHED Memorandum Order No. 1, s. 2015.
To complement the document review, the validation team conducted focus group discussions with students and community beneficiaries, gathering qualitative insights on the impact of GAD initiatives. The activity provided a platform to assess how university-led programs enhance participation, promote awareness, and expand access to opportunities for diverse sectors.
On-site inspections were also carried out to verify the implementation of gender-responsive mechanisms. The evaluators visited key facilities and academic spaces, assessing whether institutional policies are effectively translated into day-to-day practices.
The second day of validation intensified the assessment, with evaluators conducting an in-depth review of institutional mechanisms and sustained GAD efforts. Particular emphasis was placed on the integration of gender perspectives in the curriculum, research undertakings, and extension programs, highlighting the university’s shift from compliance-driven approaches to transformative gender mainstreaming.
The activity concluded with a closing meeting facilitated by PCW, where initial findings and recommendations were presented. These are expected to guide DOrSU in strengthening its gender-responsive strategies and sustaining gains in institutional development.
The GADTimpala validation forms part of a national recognition system that honors higher education institutions demonstrating exemplary performance in advancing gender equality and inclusive development. For DOrSU, the process marks a critical milestone in its continuing effort to institutionalize GAD as a core pillar of governance and service delivery.
The university’s Center for Gender and Development, which spearheads DOrSU’s GAD initiatives, expressed optimism over the outcome of the evaluation. Center Director Dr. Jeralyn N. Hemillan, together with GAD Focal Persons Dr. Mary Fil M. Bauyot and Dr. Helina Jean P. Dupa, underscored the university’s sustained efforts in embedding gender responsiveness across academic and administrative systems, noting that the validation reflects years of institutional work toward inclusive and equitable development.
The successful completion of the validation underscores DOrSU’s sustained leadership in gender-responsive education in the region, affirming that inclusive development remains central to its vision as a regenerative futures university.
