Recognizing the institution’s sustained commitment to gender and development (GAD) initiatives, the Philippine Commission on Women (PCW) has named Davao de Oro State College as one of the shortlisted State Universities and Colleges (SUCs) for on-site validation under the GADtimpala for Outstanding Gender-Responsive SUCs.

Scheduled on April 14–15, 2026, the validation will be conducted by representatives from the PCW and the Commission on Higher Education (CHED), who will assess the College’s GAD mechanisms and its integration of gender perspectives in curriculum, research, and extension programs.

The team will also review submitted verification documents, validate self-assessment results, and ensure alignment with CHED Memorandum Order No. 01, s. 2015, which sets the guidelines for establishing and strengthening GAD in higher education institutions.

DdOSC President Dr. Lilybeth M. Matunhay expressed her joy and pride in the College’s inclusion among the shortlisted SUCs, emphasizing that this recognition reflects the collective dedication of the DdOSC community in advancing gender equality and inclusive development.

Additionally, GAD Focal Person Sarah O. Cabahit-Aranges highlighted that this affirms the College’s continued efforts to institutionalize gender-responsive policies, programs, and practices across its academic and administrative systems.

The GADtimpala program recognizes SUCs for outstanding performance in gender mainstreaming while encouraging institutions to integrate gender-responsive policies, programs, and practices into their systems.