VSU ranks 6th nationwide in GAD budget allocation, gains recognition from PCW

University and Board Secretary Ms. Hazelle V. Asaldo (center) accepted the recognition from the Philippine Commission on Women on behalf of the VSU Gender and Development Office.

Visayas State University (VSU) has been recognized by the Philippine Commission on Women (PCW) as one of the top state universities and colleges (SUCs) in the country for advancing gender equality through its 2024 Gender and Development (GAD) Budget. 

Placing 6th among SUCs across the country, VSU recorded one of the highest allocations for organizational-focused GAD programs, positioning the university at the forefront of gender-responsive governance in Eastern Visayas.

The recognition reflects how the university has deliberately allocated and utilized its GAD budget to support initiatives promoting women’s empowerment, inclusivity, and the protection of marginalized sectors.

Programs funded under the GAD budget include gender sensitivity trainings for students and employees, strengthening anti-sexual harassment measures, institutional support for women-focused livelihood projects, research addressing gender issues, and sustained observance of the annual National Women’s Month celebration.

Earlier this year, VSU’s 2025 GAD Plan and Budget once again received formal endorsement from PCW, making it the only higher education institution in Eastern Visayas with a consistent record of compliance and approval. 

[Read: VSU secures PCW Endorsement for 2025 Gender and Development Plan and Budget]

PCW endorsed VSU’s 2025 Gender and Development Plan and Budget, citing its consistent application of gender perspectives in academics, research, and extension services.

VSU President Dr. Prose Ivy G. Yepes welcomed the recognition as an outcome of sustained effort within the university.

“This acknowledgment from PCW shows that we are moving in the right direction by embedding gender equality into our programs and daily operations. More than compliance, our goal is to make sure that these initiatives bring measurable impact to our students, faculty, staff, and partner communities,” she said.

By ranking among the top SUCs in GAD budget allocation, VSU joins a select group of government institutions that have demonstrated measurable results in advancing women’s empowerment and gender equality through proper planning and resource management.

This article is aligned with Sustainable Development Goal (SDGs) 4: Quality Education; SDG 5: Gender Equality; SDG 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth; SDG 10: Reduced Inequalities, and; SDG 16: Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions. 

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