CHR, PANTAY ink partnership to advance gender equality in schools

The Commission on Human Rights (CHR) and the Philippine Anti-Discrimination Alliance of Youth Leaders (PANTAY) formalized a partnership to promote gender equality in educational institutions through the signing of a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) on Monday, June 9, 2025.

The agreement, signed by CHR Chairperson Richard Palpal-latoc and PANTAY Executive Director Rye Manuzon, marks a significant step toward building safe, inclusive, and gender-sensitive learning environments across the country. 

The collaboration centers on PANTAY’s Project GEIS (Gender Equality Index for Schools), which aims to assess and improve gender inclusivity in school settings.

At the heart of the initiative are two tools: the Rainbow Report Card, an assessment tool that helps schools evaluate their gender equality policies and practices, and the Rainbow School Kit, a practical guide that outlines actionable steps schools can take to meet the standards set in the report card.

“This partnership with PANTAY is aligned with the CHR’s mandate to uphold the rights and dignity of all, especially the youth and members of the LGBTQI community,” said Palpal-latoc. 

"Through this initiative, we aim to help foster learning spaces where every student feels safe, respected, and empowered.”

CHR Center for Gender Equality and Women’s Human Rights Officer-in-Charge Atty. Twyla Rubin underscored the Commission’s proactive stance in promoting inclusive education and broader gender equality efforts.

“We are not just allies. We see ourselves as champions for gender equality, especially since the CHR is the Gender and Development Ombud,” Rubin said. 

"We are steadfast in our commitment to be with you and partner schools in the continuing struggle to make all Philippine schools inclusive, in the greater fight to pass the SOGIE Equality Bill, alongside all other equality programs, policies, and initiatives.”

Manuzon expressed optimism that the collaboration will inspire similar efforts across government institutions.

“Project GEIS and other initiatives towards gender equality are life-saving programs not just for queer people but every Filipino,” Manuzon said. 

"We hope that partnering with institutions like CHR can open up more opportunities for more national government agencies and local and national government officials alike to be allies for a more inclusive, just, equitable, and equal Philippine society for all.”

The MOA signing highlights a growing movement among rights-based institutions and youth-led organizations to create inclusive spaces for all learners, regardless of gender identity or expression. —Sherylin Untalan/KG, GMA Integrated News