Mariano Marcos
State University

More MMSU women employees undergo driver training

By Wimbledon Bosque
 

In observance of National Women’s Month, a driving skills training titled 𝘉𝘐𝘠𝘈𝘏𝘌𝘙𝘈: 𝘞𝘰𝘮𝘦𝘯 𝘪𝘯 𝘔𝘰𝘵𝘪𝘰𝘯 𝘛𝘰𝘸𝘢𝘳𝘥 𝘚𝘢𝘧𝘦 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘊𝘰𝘯𝘧𝘪𝘥𝘦𝘯𝘵 𝘋𝘳𝘪𝘷𝘪𝘯𝘨 was conducted for women employees of Mariano Marcos State University (MMSU) at the University Library – American Corner on March 24.
 

Spearheaded by the  College of Industrial Technology (CIT) and Gender and Development (GAD) Office, the initiative aimed to equip participants with mobility literacy and driving skills.
 

Just last year, a training on basic car maintenance training for women employees through a hands-on workshop was conducted where participants applied their newly acquired knowledge through breakdown simulations and tire-changing exercises.
 

This year, the training focused on foundational and applied competencies necessary for safe and confident road navigation. It also addressed gendered experiences on the road, particularly the subtle and overt forms of discrimination encountered by women drivers. 
 

CIT Prof. Fairie Anne Domingo noted that women are often belittled and stereotyped when driving, emphasizing the need for them to “claim their space and not allow others to dictate their place on the road.” 
 

Dr. Leah Sambrano of CIT echoed this sentiment, recalling past experiences that had tested her as a woman driver. She shared how these encounters strengthened her determination to challenge stereotypes and advocate for greater respect and inclusivity on the road.
 

In traditionally male-dominated spaces, GAD Director Nataliza Llapitan emphasized the need to challenge such norms. “We are babaylans. We are not meant to be put aside. Ang pagmamaneho ay hindi kailanman naging labanan ng kasarian,” she said. 
 

For the first session of the driving skills training, Prof. Ruel Peralta discussed the importance of developing mobility competence, strengthening driving confidence, acquiring essential vehicle knowledge, and consistently prioritizing road safety protocols. “The road is not only for men; it is for everyone,” he said. 
 

Meanwhile, Prof. William Bermudez provided a technical walkthrough on vehicle fundamentals, controls, and pre-driving inspection procedures. He detailed critical checks such as brake functionality, tire condition, fluid levels, and overall vehicle roadworthiness to ensure safe operation.
 

“The vehicle is not a separate entity; it’s an extension of ourselves,” he said, adding that drivers should always check themselves before driving. 
 

Dr. Jayson Tebes concluded the morning session as he discussed core driving skills, maneuvers, defensive road strategies, including drivers’ duties and responsibilities. 
 

During the afternoon session, a hands-on driving practicum and emergency preparedness training were conducted to provide participants with practical experience. The session was facilitated by Dr. Tebes, Prof. Peralta, Prof. Bermudez, Mr. Larmy Genesis Ubasa, and Mr. Jefferson Miranda.