Strengthening Professional Integrity: USTP Claveria hosts seminar on RA 11313 ‘Bawal Bastos Law
By Carlos Ian H. Mendoza, STRATCOMM Staff, USTP Claveria
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The University of Science and Technology of Southern Philippines in Claveria, Misamis Oriental (USTP Claveria) emphasized the importance of workplace safety and dignity by holding a bite-size lecture on safe spaces in the workplace for faculty, staff, and personnel on March 9, 2026, at the USTP Claveria Student Lounge.
Anna Grace F. Caseres, RPm, CHRA, delivered the lecture titled “From Safety to Success: The Foundation of Flourishing.” Organized by the campus Human Resource Management Unit (HRMU), the session focused on raising awareness of laws and policies that protect individuals from harassment and discrimination in public and professional settings. Central to the discussion were Republic Act No. 11313, or the “Bawal Bastos Law,” and Civil Service Commission Resolution No. 2100064, which strengthens anti-harassment measures in the public sector.
Ms. Caseres emphasized that safety is not merely an institutional requirement but a vital condition for productivity and growth, noting that environments free from harassment allow individuals to move from defense to creativity and innovation. She introduced the concept of “Survival Mode versus Innovation Mode,” explaining that individuals in unsafe environments often experience anxiety, hyper-vigilance, and emotional strain, which can lead to burnout and stagnation. In contrast, psychologically safe workplaces foster collaboration, problem-solving, and creativity.
She also discussed the provisions of RA 11313, which prohibits gender-based harassment in streets, public spaces, workplaces, and online platforms, penalizing acts such as catcalling, wolf-whistling, leering, intrusive gazing, sexist slurs, and misogynistic remarks. Complementing this, CSC Resolution No. 2100064 broadens the definition of harassment to include any behavior that creates a hostile or offensive environment and holds leaders accountable for maintaining respectful and inclusive workplaces.
Highlighting the broader impact of safe work environments, Caseres explained that legal compliance helps preserve employees’ mental energy, enabling them to focus on innovation and professional excellence. When individuals feel safe and respected, organizations are better positioned to attract and retain talent and foster a culture of inclusivity and success.
The session concluded with a Safe Work Environment Declaration, where participants affirmed their commitment to uphold respect, integrity, and professionalism. The declaration underscored that harassment, discrimination, and any behavior that diminishes the dignity of others will not be tolerated. Caseres ended with a reminder that compliance with the law is only the starting point, encouraging institutions to go beyond legal requirements and actively cultivate safe, inclusive, and empowering environments.
Through initiatives like this Monday Convocation lecture, USTP Claveria continues to strengthen a campus culture where safety serves as the foundation for creativity, collaboration, and innovation, enabling every member of the community to thrive and contribute.
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