LMB’s 2024 Women’s Month Celebration commemorates gender equality and inclusivity on land administration education

On March 4, 2024, the Land Management Bureau kicks off its 2024 Women’s Month Celebration with the theme, “2024 Lipunang Patas sa Bagong Pilipinas, Kakayahan ng Kababaihan, Patunayan.” To commemorate the event, a flag raising ceremony, led by the LMB – Gender and Development Focal Point System (GAD-FPS), was held in Estuar Building, Quezon City. This was attended by the LMB Executive Committee, LMB employees, as well as, the 7th Partner LGU,Barangay Western Bicutan headed by Barangay Chairperson Pedrito B.Bermas and other guests.

In her opening message, Legal Division Chief Marlou Alutaya and adviser of the LMB’s GAD FPS emphasized that LMB’s sub-theme, “WE for Gender Equality, Inclusive and Resilient Society,” does not just refer to women, but is inclusive to everyone.

“It underscores the ongoing reforms advocated by the government, resonating for years to come until we achieve an environment that continuously empowers not just women, but all genders,” Alutaya said. “The LMB, through its GAD-FPS and Taguig City, we will be united in our commitment of fostering hope, driving meaningful change, and advocating for women empowerment and gender equality.”

She also highlighted the activities of the LMB in support of Barangay Western Bicutan. First, they seek to apprise its residents of the processes, procedures, and the requirements on the disposition of lands through Presidential Proclamation No. 172. This engages constituents to identify gaps, so that LMB can prescribe or enhance its existing policies. Second, LMB’s client-focused programs and activities are also enrolled in its GAD plan and budget for 2024. These highlight the benefits of land disposition in Taguig City, so that constituents would understand the significance of titled lands. Third, LMB desires to empower women in Taguig City on the Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) mechanism, as they should be given information on the process of mediation and conciliation at the barangay level.

The highlight of the event is the signing of the Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between LMB and Barangay Western Bicutan, the 7th partner LGU on the mainstreaming of GAD activities. This MOU signified our commitment to advancing gender inclusivity and equality in all lands activities

AD Romeo Verzosa closed the flag raising ceremony by signifying the importance of both women and men in developing resilience in the face of climate change issues. He also expressed his gratitude to Barangay Western Bicutan.

“As outlined earlier, the month-long activities of LMB throughout 2024, particularly in partnership with Western Bicutan, emphasizes our commitment to integrating gender and development initiatives into the functions of local government units (LGUs).” Verzosa said. “Our objective is to empower and educate LGUs, not only on the program of LMB, but also about climate change resilience through the diverse programs offered by the Department of Environment and Natural Resources.”

The lectures on Presidential Proclamation No. 172 and ADR were subsequently conducted in Brentwood Suites, Quezon City, which was participated by Barangay Chairperson Bermas, members of the Lupon Tagapamayapa, and other barangay officials and staff. AD Verzosa delivered the opening message.

“By providing comprehensive lectures on land disposition and ADR, we aim to equip LGUs with the knowledge and tools necessary to address these challenges effectively. This initiative holds significant promise for LMB, presenting an invaluable opportunity to elevate our services and enhance our ability to meet the needs of those we serve,” he said.

The LMB also re-launched its “Tindahan ni Juana at Juan,” a food park within its office. The activity was first introduced in 2023, encouraging its own employees to put up merchandise such as food, drinks, and other goods. The stalls are open to the general public for five days in the first week of March in 2024, especially for LMB clientele. For its employees, it conducted health and wellness activities in the afternoon. RCBC was also present to promote its services for financial security.

Other Gender and Development activities are lined up for March to April 2024:

• EmpowerHER: A Cinematic Celebration of Women’s Resilience – showcasing empowering films about women
• Voices of Empowerment: Inspiring Testimonies from Women Across Industries – sharing personal accounts from women in diverse professions
• MusikJuana 2024 Music Video Contest – participants create music videos using MusikJuana, a song endorsed by the Philippine Commission on Women
• Miss GAD LMB 2024 – a beauty contest promoting Gender and Development awareness

LMB employees participate in the first weekly Zumba fitness session.	LMB partners with RCBC to promote financial security