In its continued support and recognition to the promotion of gender equality and women empowerment within and outside Bicol University, the Center for Gender and Development held its annual “MaGADyon Awards 2022” at The Proxy Hotel, Convention Center on February 28, 2023. 

The awarding body recognizes the outstanding contributions of individuals and groups in promoting gender and development (GAD) in the university and the wider community while encouraging the integration of gender perspectives in all aspects of the university's programs, policies, and activities.

The term "MaGADyon" is derived from the words "magayon," which means "beautiful” or in the folklore of Bicol, the young maiden, and “GAD” which stands for Gender and Development. The event commenced with the presentation of accomplishments for year 2022 and the presentation of commendations in recognition of its former GAD director, awarded to Prof. Ma. Elaine I. Salazar, and its former GAD coordinators, namely, Dr. Melinda D. De Guzman, Engr. Francia L. Abarrientos, Marck Zaldy O. Camba, Dr. Christina Carmelli A. Brocales, and Pritzie S. Rey. 

Awards were also given to the following current  non-teaching personnel GAD coordinators: Teodora N. Oñato, and Michelle B. Andes. For the teaching personnel, they were Gilbert E. Lopez, April Joy B. Nuez, Roselyn O. Ragas, Dr. Roldan C. Cabiles, Sarah Jane B. Labarda, Dr. Alicia A. Asaytuno, Dr. Odette R. Gonzales, Arch. Maureen M. Sia, Imelda A. Siapno, Mark M. Gatus, Dr. Ma. Victoria M. Monte, Albret B. Balace, Engr. Anna G. Bilaro, Kimberly D. Pavilando, and Rosevida Y. Villanueva. 

BUCGAD also announces its Outstanding Linkage/Network Award to the LGU Malilipot (Santicon, Sulong, and Salvacion). Meanwhile, the Outstanding GAD-Responsive College is the Institute of Design and Architecture (IDeA), and the College of Business, Economics, and Management (CBEM) received the Outstanding GAD-Responsive Extension Program. 

For the Outstanding GAD Coordinator, Roselyn O. Vargas, GAD coordinator at BU Guinobatan, was proclaimed. 

As one of the highlights of the program, Dr. Noel R. Rafer, GAD director, led the launching of the official BUCGAD MaGADzine: MaGADyon, together with Dr. Renelyn E. Bautista, director of the BU Communication and Public Relations Office (CPRO), Atty. Septon A. Dela Cruz, CHED V Regional Director, BU President Dr. Arnulfo M. Mascariñas, and Gretchen B. Millena, BUCGAD Technical Staff. 

The bi-annual first issue of the magazine is a collaboration between BUCGAD and BUCPRO, covering January to June 2022. The maiden issue includes stories, literary works, programs, and activities of BUCGAD written by contributors from among the various units’ GAD coordinators.. 

In recognition of their contributions to the making of the magazine, Dr. Bautista, Arnold C. Noda, Cherry Grace H. Calisin, and Joshua Isaiah Codorniz were awarded for their services. 

After the announcement of the minor awardees for the best red carpet appearance and celebrities of the night, the program concluded with the closing remarks of Dr. Rafer. 

Through the MaGADyon Awards, BU recognizes the importance of promoting gender equality and women's empowerment in its programs, policies, and activities. The organizers hope to inspire and encourage individuals and groups to continue their work in advancing gender equality and eliminating gender-based discrimination within the university, their communities, and beyond. (by Arnold C. Noda, MPS I-CPRO)