Building Safe Spaces: JHMC’s Commitment to Gender Sensitivity and the Safe Spaces Act

An in-depth training on gender sensitivity and the Safe Spaces Act was conducted by Ms. Reina Olivar, a Philippine Commission on Women (PCW)-certified trainer, on October 13–14, 2025, for the newly hired employees of John Hay Management Corporation (JHMC).
The session explored the distinctions between sex and gender, their underlying causes, and the importance of fostering inclusivity in both the workplace and the broader community. It underscored the inherent dignity  of  every  individual,  regardless  of  sexual  orientation, gender identity, and sex characteristics (SOGIESC), and emphasized  the  shared  responsibility  of  all  staff  in  upholding respectful   and   inclusive environments. This aligns with the mandates of  the  Safe  Spaces  Act, which  seeks   to  prevent  gender-based harassment   and  promote respectful treatment of others in both physical and digital spaces.
Participants gained practical knowledge by unlearning stereotypes, redistributing roles equitably, and recognizing both practical and strategic gender interests. These insights empower employees to create   safe,   accessible  spaces  in   their   capacities  as   individuals, community members, and representatives of organizations and institutions.   The   presentation   also   covered  guidelines   on  inclusive language, respect  for  diversity,  and  the  “golden rules”  of  professional conduct,  tools  essential  for  preventing  discrimination  and  maintaining high standards of workplace ethics.
This training forms part of JHMC’s continuing commitment to cultivating  a  gender-responsive  workplace.  The  corporation’s sustained   efforts  have  been  consistently  recognized by the Philippine Commission on Women (PCW), affirming its role as a steward of inclusive and respectful professional environments.