In support of the National Women’s Month with its theme “Babae sa Lahat ng Sektor, Aangat ang Bukas sa Bagong Pilipinas,” the Northwest Samar State University (NwSSU) Office of Gender and Development successfully conducted a Free Theoretical Driving Course (TDC) for its women students and employees on March 13-14, 2025, at the RSU-Socio Cultural Center. This initiative, in collaboration with the Land Transportation Office (LTO) Calbayog, aimed to equip women with essential knowledge and driving education, promoting gender equality and women’s empowerment.
The program commenced with an opening ceremony featuring an audio-visual presentation and a welcome address by Dr. Riz Rupert L. Ortiz, Vice President for Research, Innovation, and Extension. Mr. Jilmar Badion, LTO Calbayog Head, emphasized the importance of accessible driving education in improving women’s mobility and road safety.
Following the opening program, attendees went through a lecture session on Introduction to LTO RA 4136 and RA 10930 conducted by Francies Jony O. Barandino. This was then followed by the presentation on traffic rules and regulations and Land Transportation Related Special Law conducted by Peter Jade S. Tarrayo. The session was designed to impart an in-depth understanding of these laws and their implications.
The program concluded with a final written exam assessing the participants’ understanding of the topics discussed. By completing this training, participants are now better equipped to obtain a driver’s license, promoting inclusivity and independence among NwSSU’s students and employees. This initiative demonstrates NwSSU’s commitment to promoting gender equality and women empowerment, providing opportunities for women to develop valuable life skills.