Safe Spaces Matter: Speak Up and Stand Together

On 27 January 2026, the Rotary Club of Marikina, in collaboration with the Interact Club of Marikina High School, successfully conducted a meaningful and timely seminar entitled “Safe Spaces Matter: Speak Up and Stand Together” for approximately one hundred fifty (150) junior high school students of Marikina High School. The activity forms part of Rotary’s continuing commitment to promote dignity, respect, and inclusivity among the youth.

The seminar centered on the provisions and significance of Republic Act No. 11313, otherwise known as the Safe Spaces Act or commonly known as the Bawal Bastos Act. It aimed to raise awareness among students about their rights, responsibilities, and the importance of fostering environments free from gender-based harassment—whether in schools, public spaces, or online platforms.

The program opened with a message emphasizing Rotary’s role in shaping socially responsible individuals and empowering young people to become advocates of respect and equality. Interact officers likewise underscored the importance of youth participation in building communities where everyone feels safe and valued.

Resource speaker, Good President Mario Ryan E. Lauzon of the Rotary Club of Marikina, a lawyer by profession and a former Professor of Pamantasan ng Lungsod ng Marikina, provided a clear and age-appropriate discussion of the Safe Spaces Act, highlighting prohibited acts, reporting mechanisms, and the corresponding liabilities for violations.

Practical scenarios were presented to help students identify forms of harassment and understand appropriate responses. Emphasis was placed on the role of bystanders—not merely as witnesses, but as active participants in preventing and addressing misconduct. The seminar likewise touched on the Anti-Bullying Act of 2013.

The interactive segment of the seminar encouraged students to share insights and ask questions, fostering open dialogue on issues often left unspoken. The discussion reinforced that silence perpetuates harm, while informed action promotes accountability and protection for all.

The initiative also highlighted the importance of solidarity. Students were encouraged to “speak up” against inappropriate behavior and to “stand together” in support of peers who may be vulnerable. The activity instilled the value of courage balanced with responsibility, reminding participants that creating safe spaces is a shared duty.

Through this partnership, the Rotary Club of Marikina and the Interact Club of Marikina High School demonstrated how collaboration between community leaders and youth organizations can effectively address relevant social issues. By equipping students with knowledge and awareness, the program contributes to the development of a more respectful and inclusive school environment. 

The preparation for the activity and more importantly, the material used in the said seminar were products of Marikina High School Interact’s innovativeness, proficiency in online and offline computer applications and of Rotary Club of Marikina’s commitment to vocational service. Good President Mario Ryan Lauzon, President-Elect Paul Aguilar and Rotarian Jerzy Torres, who are all lawyers by profession, shared their valuable time and meaningful inputs in coming up with the learning materials used in the said seminar.

In closing the seminar proper, Good President Ryan Lauzon delivered his key message: “Respect makes everyone feel safe. Harassment is never okay .Together, we can make the school a Safe Space.”

As Rotary continues its mission of “Service Above Self,” initiatives such as this reaffirm its commitment to protecting human dignity and empowering the next generation to uphold the principles of respect, equality, and accountability in all spaces.

Written by: Good President Mario Ryan E. Lauzon, Rotary Club of Marikina