LMB improves GAD lens activities with Harmonized Gender and Development Guidelines (HGDG) Workshop

The Land Management Bureau, through the Gender and Development Focal Point System, conducted a three-day workshop on the gender analysis tool namely Harmonized Gender and Development Guidelines (HGDG) on September 20-22, 2023 at Widus Hotel Clark, Pampanga. The workshop for HGDG aims to integrate gender concerns into development programs and projects. It also seeks to demonstrate the identification of gender issues and mitigating strategies to address gender issues or gaps in the program and/or project, as well as the program/project management, implementation, and evaluation. In addition, HGDG also ensures gender equality and women’s empowerment results in programs and projects of the Bureau. This was attended by LMB Officials, selected LMB GAD Focal Point System and employees, representatives from Regions 3 and 4A, and LGU Partner Barangay Central Bicutan, Taguig City.

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 Ms. Lovella Luzette V. Galindon, spearheaded the process. In her message, she emphasized the importance of conducting an assessment using the HGDG not only as a requirement by the National GADFPS but, more importantly, to keep track of the progress of the gender mainstreaming efforts of LMB, how LMB addressed the HGDG 2022 results 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 Ms. Psyche Mae Asencio and Ms. Kimberly Anne Teodoro.

HGDG is necessary to ensure that the programs and projects of the Bureau are all gender-responsive. It consists of checklists that are applicable to each program and project. This year, programs and projects under Policy and Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) were also included.

The participants were divided into groups for a more focused group discussion and analysis. The results, along with the respective issues and concerns of each program and project, were also discussed, raised, and elaborated.

Lastly, the Chairperson of GADFPS, Maria Gina F. Pascua, gave the closing remarks with words of wisdom and encouragement that commitment is a key function in achieving gender mainstreaming within the organization. She also emphasized that LMB will continue to promote gender equality, ensuring that gender perspectives and the needs of both women and men are integrated into all aspects of LMB’s policies, programs, and activities. She humbly thanked everyone for actively participating in the tiring yet exciting and productive three days of training.