LMB Improves GAD Lens Activities with Harmonized Gender and Development Guidelines (HGDG) and Enhanced Gender Mainstreaming Evaluation Framework (GMEF) Workshop

The Land Management Bureau through Gender and Development Focal Point System conducted a three-day workshop on gender analysis tools such as Harmonized Gender and Development Guidelines (HGDG) and Gender Mainstreaming Evaluation Framework (GMEF) on November 02-04, 2022 at Club Balai Isabel, Batangas. The workshop for GMEF aims to guide LMB in understanding the processes and context of gender mainstreaming as it is implemented within an organization and to help them acquire a holistic view of the mainstreaming process and HGDG aims to integrate gender concerns into development programs and projects. It also ensures gender equality and women’s empowerment results in programs and projects. This was attended by LMB Officials, selected LMB GAD Focal Point System and employees, representatives from Regions and LGU Partner Barangay Lower Bicutan.

Director Emelyne V. Talabis gave her welcome remarks virtually and shared some pointers and importance of Gender Mainstreaming activities. She welcomed the participants and cited Republic Act 9710 and PCW Memorandum Circular 2016-03 which mandates government offices to recognize gender equality as a human right and where needed, actively promote women’s rights.

The LMB Gender and Development Focal Point System (GADFPS) led by Chairperson Maria Gina Pascua spearheaded the process. In her message, she emphasized the importance of the conduct of an assessment using the GMEF not only as a requirement by the National GADFPS but more importantly to keep track on the progress of the gender mainstreaming efforts of LMB; how LMB addressed the GMEF 2021 findings and deficiencies and finally be able to prepare the required annual gender and development plan and budget (GPB).

The highlight of the workshop was the discussion and application of HGDG which was facilitated by Dr. Rowena S. Navera . HGDG is necessary to ensure that the programs and projects of the Bureau are all gender-responsive.

Another key topic which was covered by Dr. Navera during the workshop was the importance of GMEF in measuring the extent gender mainstreaming efforts of organizations – both in National Government Agencies (NGAs) and Local Government Units (LGUs). She also divided the participant into groups for a more focused group discussion and analysis.

Lastly, Atty. Marlou P. Alutaya, Chief Legal Division, gave the closing remarks with words of wisdom and encouragement to everyone. She humbly extended her thanks and appreciation to everyone for actively participating making the tiring, yet exciting and fun three days of training especially the participants coming from Barangay Lower Bicutan, Taguig. The dedication and love for the organization as manifested by all participants are truly amazing which led to the success of the three-day workshop.