The Department of Education Region IV-A CALABARZON has moved closer to institutionalizing stronger ethical and gender-responsive standards following a three-day vetting and finalization of its Regional Code of Conduct held from March 25 to 27, 2026, at Selah Pods Hotel in Pasay City. The activity aimed to ensure that policies clearly address discrimination, harassment, and other forms of misconduct while aligning workplace standards with Gender and Development (GAD) principles and the Safe Spaces Act.

Legal officers from Schools Division Offices, guidance counselors, Learner Rights Protection Specialists, and members of the Committee on Decorum and Investigation (CODI) participated in the review, focusing on strengthening accountability mechanisms and improving reporting and case management systems. Through consultations and technical reviews, participants refined key provisions to promote safe, respectful, and equitable environments for both personnel and learners.

Assistant Regional Director Loida N. Nidea graced the activity and emphasized the shared responsibility of all education stakeholders in keeping schools and offices free from violence. She underscored the importance of adhering to Republic Act No. 6713, or the Code of Conduct and Ethical Standards for Public Officials and Employees, in upholding ethical behavior and safeguarding the rights and welfare of the education community.

Once finalized, the Regional Code of Conduct will serve as a key reference for behavior and accountability across CALABARZON, reinforcing the region’s commitment to gender-responsive governance and decisive action against violations.

The activity was spearheaded by the Human Resource Development Division, in collaboration with the Regional GAD Focal Point System–Legal Unit and the Regional Learner Rights Protection Division.