Central Luzon State University (CLSU), through the University Supreme Student Council (USSC) and the CLSU Paruparong Bukid Organization, hosted another series of the “Hue Belong: Inclusive Education for All” which promoted equality and a sense of belongingness within the academic community, held on March 30, 2026, at the FPJ Communication Hall.
As the event’s guest of honor, Senator Risa Hontiveros, the primary author of the Safe Spaces Act, delivered a powerful message on the need to eliminate harassment in all environments. She emphasized that fostering an inclusive culture is not the duty of a few, but a collective obligation.
“Lahat tayo ay responsible for providing safe spaces. Lahat tayo ay may papel dito. Sa paraan ng pakikinig natin, pagtrato sa isa’t isa. Kahit sa maliliit na bagay lang pwede tayong mag ambag… Ang pagpili na umintindi bago manghusga,” Sen. Hontiveros stated.
She further stressed, “Kung gusto natin mag build ng inclusive education and safe spaces, we need to be intentional. Kailangan may conscious effort na gawing mas maayos, mas ligtas, at mas inclusive ang bawat espasyo, dahil ang inclusivity ay commitment.”
One of the highlights of the event was the "couch session," which brought together diverse perspectives on community leadership and the policies and movements aimed at eliminating discrimination and harassment.
Joining Sen. Hontiveros on the panel were Dr. Ravelina Velasco, Vice President for Academic Affairs; Hon. Baby Armi Alvarez, Mayor of the Science City of Muñoz; and Mx. Chloe Castillo, Head of the CLSU Paruparong Bukid Organization.
The discussion further underscored the importance of speaking up, seeking help, and institutionalizing protections for student well-being. This ensures that "inclusive education" translates into tangible safe spaces for the LGBTQ+ community and the wider student body.
The forum concluded with a meet-and-greet session, allowing representatives from various student organizations, the university administration, and other groups across Nueva Ecija to raise their concerns and present their advocacies directly to the senator.
#SievingForExcellence #SafeSpaces
