Bataan Peninsula State University (BPSU) has taken significant strides toward realizing the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 5: Gender Equality. This goal calls for eliminating gender-based disparities in all spheres, from educational access to career opportunities. BPSU has implemented policies, facilities, and support systems to create an inclusive environment for women, advancing their role within the university community and society at large. The following narrative provides a comprehensive account of BPSU’s initiatives to foster gender equality across various aspects of university life. 

Women's Access to Higher Education: A Growing Majority

In recent decades, the landscape of higher education has undergone a profound transformation.  The increasing participation of women in higher education represents a transformation in the global academic landscape. Women, who were once underrepresented in universities and colleges, now constitute a growing majority of enrollees and graduates across the country - a testament to decades of policy reforms, community advocacy, and the enduring value placed on education by Filipino families.  This development reflects improved access, determination and commitment of women to overcome social, economic, and cultural barriers. 

AY 2024-2025 Student Population

For Academic Year 2024-2025, BPSU's population rose to 20,020.  Women comprised 54.98% of the total student population, representing 11,008 female students while males comprised 45.01% of the total student population. This gender distribution reflects the university's strong commitment to promoting inclusivity and gender equality across all academic disciplines.  

Of the 6,328 students who commenced their degree programs this academic year, 3,314 are women - comprising 52% of the incoming cohort. This balanced distribution is more than a statistical milestone; it affirms the University's ongoing dedication to equal opportunity and gender inclusion in every field of study. 

The robust participation of women in higher education highlights their expanding influence in diverse fields - from science, technology, and engineering to the humanities, arts, and education. Their presence not only reflects individual aspirations but also the University's sustained efforts to cultivate a learning environment where excellence, innovation, and leadership are nurtured without bias.  By fostering inclusive academic spaces, the institution continues to empower all students to realize their full potential and contribute meaningfully to national development. 

AY 2022 - 2023 Student Population

For the Academic Year 2022-2023, BPSU recorded a notable demographic trend: 53.04% of total enrollees were women, equating to 3,649 female students out of the total enrollees. This trend spans a variety of disciplines, demonstrating the university’s commitment to inclusivity across fields. Specifically, female enrollment includes 101 students in Agriculture and Fisheries, 54 in Arts and Sciences, 448 in Allied Health and Sciences, 1,060 in Business and Accountancy, 855 in Education, 437 in Engineering and Architecture, 170 in Information and Communications Technology, 357 in Social and Behavioral Sciences, and 127 in Technology.

Number of Women Starting a Degree

BPSU Observes Continuous Increase in the Number of First Year Female Enrollees

As of the First Semester of AY 2024-2025, Bataan Peninsula State University recorded a significant intake of first year students, totaling 6,328 individuals. Notably, this demographic data indicates that majority of the first years - 3,314 students, or approximately 52% - were female.  This development signifies an important trend in higher education, reflecting both increased female participation and the growing inclusivity of academic institutions in the region. 

Across various colleges and disciplines, the presence of women has become more pronounced. This increased female enrollment not only underscores the university's commitment to providing equitable educational opportunities but also highlights the broader societal progress towards gender balance in higher education. 

Summary of First Year Female Enrollees as of AY 2023-2024

Number of First-Generation Women Starting a Degree

Encouraging First-Generation Women in Academia

BPSU as a state university recognizes the importance of promoting equitable access to higher education, particularly for first-generation women students.  In its goal to empower first-generation women to pursue degree programs and succeed in their chosen fields, BPSU continues to launch various initiatives such as targeted outreach programs, scholarship opportunities, mentorship initiatives, and community engagement efforts. 

By fostering a supportive academic environment and addressing barriers such as financial constraints, limited information access, and cultural expectations, BPSU makes it possible for everyone to have access to higher education. 

AY 2024-2025

The University Admissions and Testing Center (UATC) has implemented a monitoring tool designed to track the enrollment of first-generation women pursuing degree programs. For Academic Year 2024-2025, the UATC successfully collected a total of 867 survey responses. Of these respondents, 467 identified as women.

As illustrated in the graph below, 38.8% of the total respondents reported being the first in their family to pursue higher education, while the remaining 61.2% indicated that they are not first-generation students.  These findings provide valuable insight into the demographic composition of the incoming cohort, particularly in understanding the representation and experiences of first-generation women within the university community. 

AY 2023-2024

Approximately 44% of female students entering BPSU are first-generation learners, meaning they are the first in their families to pursue higher education. This statistic highlights BPSU’s role in transforming family legacies through education. Of the 1,588 female students starting degrees, 699 are first-generation women, underlining the institution’s supportive approach toward those who lack a family history in academia. With programs tailored to ensure these students receive both academic and personal guidance, BPSU fosters an environment where educational equity is prioritized 

Number of Students Starting a Degree

Application and Acceptance: Ensuring Equal Opportunity

BPSU's comprehensive policies uphold equal access for all genders, with specific protocols to support women's applications, acceptance, and participation. As articulated in the BPSU Student Handbook (Chapter 1, Section 1: "Basic Policy") and the BPSU Code (Chapter 7, provision 122: "No Discrimination Admission"), these guidelines affirm that no student shall be discriminated against based on sex, socioeconomic background, nationality, religion, or political affiliation. 

Population of Students Starting a Degree as of the First Semester of AY 2024-2025

A total of 6,328 students have commenced their degree programs at BPSU. This number reflects a strong and sustained interest in the University's diverse academic offerings and its reputation for delivering quality and inclusive higher education. This significant number of first-year enrollees also affirms the institution's vital role in expanding access to higher education and shaping the next generation of leaders, professionals, and innovators who will contribute meaningfully to community, and national and global development. 

Population of Students Starting a Degree as of AY 2023-2024

For the Academic Year 2023-2024, 6,984 women applied to BPSU, of whom 3,364 were accepted, showcasing the institution’s commitment to facilitating access and reducing gender-based admission disparities​. 

Admission Report for AY 2023-2024

Policy for Women Application and Entry

Bataan Peninsula State University implements an Admission Manual which stipulates that the admission to the University shall be made without regard to race, color, age, nationality, sex, marital status, or belief ensuring equal consideration for women's applications alongside all others. 

Indicator: Proportion of Senior Female Academics

Number of Senior Academic Staff

Number of Academic Staff AND EMPLOYEES

Indicator: Proportion of Female Degrees Awarded

Number of Graduates AY 2023-2024

For AY 2023-2024, the University proudly conferred degrees and diplomas to a total of 2,755 graduates across all campuses and academic programs. This milestone reflects the institution's steadfast commitment to its mission of developing innovative leaders and empowered communities through quality and transformative education.

The total number of graudates represents the collective efforts of students, faculty, and academic support offices in ensuring the successful completion of academic requirements and compliance with institutional and government standards. The figure also demonstrates the continued growth of the University's academic programs and its responsiveness to the diverse educational and career aspirations of its students. 

Number of Graduates AY 2022-2023

number of graduates (stem)

The number of STEM graduates reflects the continuing growth of student interest in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics fields. The data provides valuable insight into how well institutions are preparing future professionals in these critical disciplines and highlights ongoing efforts to strengthen STEM education and workforce readiness. 

Out of the total 2,755 graduates, 319 completed programs under the Health and Medical Professions cluster. These graduates represent the University’s strong contribution to the development of competent and compassionate healthcare professionals who play vital roles in improving community and public health.

Of this number, 275 are women and 44 are men, reflecting the continued predominance of women in the health sciences and allied medical fields. Their success highlights the University’s dedication to nurturing professionals who combine technical expertise with empathy and service, in line with its mission to develop innovative leaders and empowered communities.

These graduates are expected to serve in hospitals, clinics, and community health programs, bringing with them the values of care, integrity, and excellence fostered throughout their academic journey.

Number of Graduates (Arts & humanities / Social Services)

A total of 1,531 graduates completed programs under the Arts, Sciences, and Social Sciences cluster, making up the largest group among this year’s graduating class. Of this number, 1,152 are women and 379 are men, reflecting a strong female presence in disciplines that nurture creativity, communication, and community engagement.

This cluster encompasses a wide range of academic programs that emphasize critical thinking, innovation, and social responsibility. The significant representation of women underscores the University’s success in promoting gender inclusivity and empowerment in fields traditionally associated with the humanities, education, and the social sciences.

Graduates from these programs are well-prepared to pursue careers in education, public administration, research, communication, and community development.

Number of Graduates by Subject Area (STEM, medicine, Arts & humanities/Social Sciences)

For the most recent academic year, the University proudly produced a total of 2,755 graduates across various academic disciplines, marking another milestone in its mission to develop innovative and service-oriented professionals.

Of the total number of graduates 905 came from programs under the Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) cluster, 319 completed degrees in the Health and Medical Professions, and 1,531 earned their credentials in the fields of Arts, Sciences, and Social Sciences.

This distribution reflects the University’s broad academic reach and its commitment to offering programs that respond to the needs of diverse sectors. The strong turnout in Arts and Social Sciences underscores the institution’s foundation in liberal and community-oriented education, while the continued growth in STEM and Medicine highlights its vital contribution to innovation, research, and public health.

Collectively, these 2,755 graduates represent the University’s dedication to academic excellence, professional competence, and social responsibility—core elements that prepare its graduates to become leaders and contributors to national and global development.

Number of Female Graduates (STEM)

Among the 905 graduates from the Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) cluster, 334 are women—a strong indicator of the growing participation and achievement of women in traditionally male-dominated fields.

These women graduates embody the University’s commitment to advancing gender equity in science and technology. Their success reflects not only their individual perseverance and academic excellence but also the University’s sustained efforts to provide an inclusive learning environment that encourages women to pursue and excel in technical and scientific disciplines.

Number of Female Graduates (medicine)

Out of the 319 graduates from the Health and Medical Professions cluster, 275 are women, demonstrating the continuing strength and dedication of women in the field of healthcare. Their presence underscores the University’s vital role in shaping compassionate, skilled, and service-oriented professionals who are deeply committed to community well-being.

These women graduates exemplify excellence and empathy—key attributes essential to the health profession. Through their rigorous academic preparation and hands-on training, they are well-equipped to serve in hospitals, clinics, and public health institutions, contributing significantly to the nation’s healthcare system.

Number of Female Graduates (arts & Humanities / Social sciences)

Within the Arts, Humanities, and Social Sciences cluster, 1,152 out of 1,531 graduates are women, representing the largest group of female graduates across all academic disciplines. This strong presence of women reflects the University’s success in fostering inclusivity and empowering female students to pursue excellence in fields that shape culture, education, communication, and social development.

These women graduates embody creativity, empathy, and critical thought—hallmarks of a well-rounded education that prepares them to lead in classrooms, government offices, research institutions, and community organizations.

Number of Female Graduates by Subject Area (STEM, Medicine, Arts & Humanities / Social Sciences)

Out of the total 2,755 graduates, 1,761 are women, representing approximately 64% of the entire graduating class. This strong female representation underscores the University’s continuing commitment to promoting gender equity and empowering women through quality higher education.

The consistent academic excellence of women across diverse fields—from Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) to Health Professions, and the Arts, Humanities, and Social Sciences—highlights their vital role in advancing innovation, compassion, and leadership in their respective professions.

Non-Discrimination Policies for Transgender

The university adheres to the following national and local policies:

• Republic Act No. 11313 (RA 11313) or the Safe Spaces Act which aims to eliminate gender-based discrimination and sexual harassment in streets, public spaces, online, workplaces, and educational or training institutions.

• The local government unit of Bataan's Provincial Ordinance 16, series of 2021 of the Bataan SOGIE Non-Discrimination Act  which prohibits and penalizes discrimination on the basis of sexual orientation or gender identity or expressions

• University Order No. 21, series of 2018 (institutionalizing Section 37 Rule VI of RA 9710) which instructs all BPSU units to integrate the gender perspective in BPSU policies, programs, projects and activities.

• University Memo No. 837 - Allowing Long-Haired Male Students Inside BPSU Campuses as Part of Gender Inclusiveness Mandate

Maternity Policy that Supports Women Participation

Childcare Facilities for Staff and Faculty

Track Women's Graduation Rates

The University’s efforts to track women’s graduation rates reflect its commitment to promoting gender equity and supporting student success. By closely monitoring these outcomes, the institution gains valuable insights into women’s academic progress, identifies areas where additional support may be needed, and ensures that policies and programs effectively advance equal opportunities for all learners. 

BPSU Implements Gender-Based Violence Prevention and Referral System

Bataan Peninsula State University officially launched its Gender-Based Violence Prevention and Referral System (GBVPRS) during a MOA signing ceremony on November 25, 2024.  The University's Manual on Gender-Based Violence Prevention and Referral System provides guidelines for supporting victims and offering interventions for offenders.  The Manual was presented to the Board of Regents and approved through Board Resolution No. 92, series of 2024, during the 91st BOR Regular Meeting on October 4, 2024. 

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Paternity Policy that Supports Women Participation

The University upholds national policies that protect and support the welfare of its employees, including the provisions of Republic Act No. 8187, also known as the Paternity Leave Act of 1996. In line with this law, the University ensures that every married male employee is granted seven days of paternity leave with full pay for the first four deliveries of his legitimate spouse with whom he is living. By implementing this policy, the institution reinforces its commitment to family-friendly practices and promotes shared parental responsibilities in the workplace.