Cavite State University (CvSU) – Carmona Campus successfully launched the first session of “Project Kaisa: Kababaihan Kaisa sa Pag-angat ng Buhay” on November 28, 2025, marking the beginning of a multi-phase learning initiative scheduled every Friday from 8:00 AM to 12:00 PM. As part of CvSUCCESS’ Project AKKaP, this initiative aims to empower women by equipping them with essential knowledge and skills in gender equality, women’s rights, mental well-being, economic empowerment, and leadership.

The kickoff program began with welcoming the participants, followed by the prayer, Philippine National Anthem, Cavite Hymn, and Carmona Hymn. In his opening remarks, Asst. Prof. Robert Jan R. Bayan, project staff of Project AKKaP and extension coordinator-alternate of the Department of Arts and Sciences, emphasized the importance of strengthening women’s capacities through community-based learning. A pre-assessment was then administered to measure the participants’ baseline knowledge before the main sessions commenced.

The first topic, “Gender, Sex, Roles, and Gender Sensitivity,” was discussed by Asst. Prof. Ron Erik C. Frontuna, project leader of Project AKKaP and department extension coordinator. His presentation clarified core gender concepts and encouraged participants to reflect on how societal expectations and gender norms shape daily experiences. This was followed by a lecture on “Sexism in Language” delivered by Dr. Ronlie Rj A. Espeleta, faculty extensionist, who underscored the importance of gender-fair and inclusive communication. During his discussion, Dr. Espeleta also presented completed research projects by CvSU-Carmona faculty, including Sexism in Textbook by Dr. Espeleta, Dr. Cristina M. Signo, Asst. Prof. Jocelyn B. Siochi, Asst. Prof. Shiela L. Vidallon, Mr. Still John F. Reyes, and Ms. Maria Rizalyn C. Flores, as well as Sexism in Memos by Dr. Espeleta. These studies highlighted real examples of gender bias in educational and administrative materials, reinforcing the relevance and urgency of the topics discussed.

Participants later engaged in the interactive activity “Rewriting of Stories,” where they revised scenarios containing gender-biased statements and applied the principles of gender sensitivity introduced in the lectures. Evaluation and post-assessment activities followed to measure learning gains and gather feedback for improving future sessions. Certificates were then awarded to recognize the commitment and participation of the attendees.

A message delivered by Ms. Janine B. Bacosmo, program leader of CvSUCCESS and campus extension services coordinator, highlighted the significance of Project Kaisa in developing empowered, informed, and proactive women community leaders. The program concluded with the closing remarks of Asst. Prof. Shiela L. Vidallon, project staff of Project AKKaP and chairperson of the Department of Arts and Sciences, who expressed gratitude for the participants’ active engagement and reaffirmed the university’s dedication to delivering transformative extension programs for the community.