The Mountain Province State Polytechnic College (MPSPC) has demonstrated its commitment to promoting gender equality and reducing inequalities within its institution and the communities it serves. As part of this effort, the college’s Gender and Development Unit conducted a “Client Engagement and Inclusive Communication Training” for the frontline personnel of Bontoc LGU on June 25, 2024.
MPSPC President Dr. Edgar G. Cue, represented by Chief Administrative Officer Mr. Dexter C. Lingbanan, underscored the importance of client engagement and ensuring that “every citizen regardless of their background and identity should be served and treated fairly and with respect.” This aligns with the college’s mission to create an inclusive environment that values diversity and upholds the principles of gender equality.
The training was connected to the research conducted by Ms. Parline Angyap T. Ullalim, entitled “Lesbians in Blue: Social Relationship Effects on Police Performance and Managing Their Homosexuality at Work.” This qualitative study explored the experiences of six lesbian police officers, highlighting the challenges they face in a predominantly male profession and their strategies for thriving despite their sexual orientation. The findings revealed that the participants’ homosexual orientation did not prevent them from fulfilling their duties, and they performed just as well as their straight counterparts.
The training featured three speakers: Attorney Jose Co, who discussed handling client complaints and employee grievances; Ms. Fenerlyn Comafay, who talked about inclusive client engagement; and Dr. Mark Preston Lopez, who tackled the principles of inclusive communication.
