Ride with Pride

EMPRESS MSU partnered with the Riders’ Association of MSU–GSC to create a safer, more inclusive transport culture through training, monitoring, and recognition systems. Through a two-day seminar, the project will raise awareness on SOGIESC, safe space policies, and gender sensitivity, while launching a Safety Reporting Form for confidential incident reporting.

Riders are an essential part of the daily mobility system at Mindanao State University–General Santos City, serving thousands of students, faculty, and staff. Despite this important role, many LGBTQIA++ individuals and other marginalized commuters experience discrimination, harassment, or unsafe practices while traveling on campus. Such incidents undermine their safety, mental health, and overall sense of belonging in the university community. A lack of awareness and training among some riders regarding gender sensitivity and safe space policies has allowed these harmful practices to persist, often unintentionally.

In response to this, EMPRESS MSU, in partnership with the Riders’ Association of MSU–GSC, will conduct a seminar this October 2025 to address inclusivity, gender sensitivity, and safe commuting practices. Coinciding with the University’s Intramurals, when campus activity and late-night travel peak, the seminar will immediately allow the lessons to be applied in real-life situations. The initiative will also launch the Safety Reporting Form for confidential reporting of incidents, introduce the Safe Space Rider Seal as a public mark of commitment, and designate selected riders as GADvocates who will serve as role models, mentors, and advocates of safe space values. By institutionalizing gender sensitivity and safe space policies into the Riders’ Association’s official by-laws, this initiative ensures sustainability and long-term impact, making campus transportation both efficient and affirming for everyone.