SOGIESC awareness seminar caps MMSU's Pride Month celebration

By Benedict Jay Collado
To promote awareness and tackle conversations surrounding Pride, Mariano Marcos State University, together with the AYAT advocacy, held a safe space session on SOGIESC at the University Library on June 29.
The awareness talks underscored the importance of recognizing one’s sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, and sexual characteristics, as discussed by MMSU Gender and Development Director Nataliza Llapitan. Meanwhile, AYAT Advocacy Chairperson Joshua Regua refreshed the attendees on the various sexual health concerns and how to deal with them.
Following the lecture on SOGIESC, the attendees gained insights as they shared their experiences in finding out more about themselves, and their takes on the country’s response to the growing concerns about it.
Additionally, the organization also conducted its membership orientation with the aim of strengthening its partnership with the institution in promoting gender equality and awareness of LGBT rights.
Free HIV testing kits and on-site testing services were also made available to participants, making the organization’s commitment to safe and responsible health practices.
Through the initiative, AYAT Advocacy and the university continue to advocate for gender equality, support the LGBTQ+ community, and create an inclusive campus where diversity is celebration.