THE VISAYAS State University has been recognized by the Philippine Commission on Women  as one of the country’s top state universities and colleges for advancing gender equality through its 2024 Gender and Development Budget.

Ranking sixth nationwide, VSU was cited for its strong allocation toward organization-focused GAD programs, placing it at the forefront of gender-responsive governance in Eastern Visayas.

President Dr. Prose Ivy G. Yepes said the recognition reflects VSU’s commitment “to ensuring that gender initiatives lead to measurable impact,” emphasizing that gender equality remains a central pillar in the university’s development agenda.

The recognition highlights the university’s strategic use of its GAD budget to promote women’s empowerment, inclusivity, and the protection of marginalized sectors across its programs and services.

Funded initiatives include gender sensitivity trainings, strengthened anti-sexual harassment policies, women-centered livelihood support, gender-focused research, and the annual observance of National Women’s Month.

VSU’s 2025 GAD Plan and Budget has also earned PCW’s formal endorsement, marking it as the only higher education institution in Eastern Visayas with consistent approval for gender-integrated planning.