IPIL, ZAMBOANGA SIBUGAY, 29 June (PIA) - In a dedicated push to advance gender equality and strengthen gender mainstreaming efforts, Gender and Development (GAD) focal persons from national government agencies, academic institutions, and local government units (LGUs) recently engaged in a three-day leveling session.

This marked the first time that many of these GAD focal persons had the opportunity to attend such comprehensive training, and they highly appreciated the experience, as it provided them with new learnings, realizations, and introduced them to the effective utilization of GAD analysis tools.

Initiated by the Regional Gender and Development Committee (RGADC) 9 and facilitated by the Philippine Commission on Women (PCW) the intensive training held in Pagadian City, provided participants with invaluable insights and equipped them with essential skills to deepen their understanding and enhance their GAD work.

The session focused on the core tenets of Gender and Development, enabling participants to develop a profound grasp of GAD mandates and policies.

An integral aspect of the training was the emphasis on gender analysis (GA) and its significance in policy formulation. Many GAD focal persons expressed their appreciation for this aspect of the training, as it opened their eyes to new perspectives and approaches.

During workshops and hands-on activities, participants had the opportunity to engage in comprehensive gender analysis by evaluating gender-related cases. 

This practical exercise allowed them to discern the distinct impacts and needs of women, men, and gender-diverse individuals across various social, economic, and cultural contexts. Equipped with this newfound understanding, GAD focal persons are now poised to drive targeted interventions that effectively address gender disparities.

Additionally, participants were introduced to a range of analysis tools specifically tailored for gender analysis. These tools facilitated the collection, organization, and interpretation of data pertaining to gender-related issues.

The GAD focal persons expressed their gratitude for this introduction to analysis tools, as it provided them with practical frameworks to make data-driven decisions, design evidence-based interventions, and monitor progress towards achieving gender equality.

"This activity has been a remarkable experience for me, as it is the first time I have had the opportunity to attend such comprehensive GAD training. It has given me new learnings, realizations, and introduced me to valuable GAD analysis tools," expressed Idzmhar Lim Ismael, a participant from NEDA.

Equipped with newfound knowledge, skills, and networks, these empowered GAD focal persons are now returning to their respective organizations. Their collective efforts are poised to contribute significantly to a more inclusive and equitable society.

As they integrate gender considerations into their programs and initiatives, they are driving meaningful change that will have a lasting impact. The effects of their efforts promise to create lasting change and ensure that gender considerations remain at the forefront of development agendas, leading society toward a more equitable future where individuals can thrive regardless of their gender. (RVC/EDT/JPA/PIA Zamboanga Sibugay)