March 31, 2023 | The Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) IX spearheaded the “Women and Everyone, Acting Towards Changing the Track (WE ACT): A Forum on Gender-Sensitive Local Governance” at One Cecilia Building, Santiago District, Pagadian City.

The event aimed to advocate for gender-sensitive local governance and showcase the efforts of LGUs in bridging the gender gap.

The forum showcased a diverse array of speakers who offered their perspectives and real-world experiences in advancing gender-sensitive local governance. Accomplished representatives from women’s groups and Civil Society Organizations also presented their groundbreaking initiatives in championing gender-responsive governance and women empowerment at the grassroots level.

During his welcome message, RD Paisal O. Abutazil underscored the significance of building a society that fosters equal access to opportunities, irrespective of one’s background. Additionally, he emphasized the vital role of active listening and the appreciation of diverse perspectives and opinions.

The keynote address was given by Atty. Margarita N. Gutierrez, Undersecretary for Operations, Plans and Programs/ GFPS Chairperson of the DILG Central Office, who passionately encouraged women to be bold and vocal in expressing their thoughts and opinions.

Alvin Rex M. Lucero, Chief of Local Government Capacity Development Division, on the other hand, presented a comprehensive background and rationale that effectively set the stage for the event’s overarching theme.

Hon. Junaflor S. Cerilles, the Municipal Mayor of Dumalinao, Zamboanga del Sur, shed light on the measures they have taken to tackle the obstacles encountered in establishing gender-sensitive local governance. Meanwhile, Dayang Mirhama Jaljalis, the Civil Registrar of Isabela City, put forward the significance of data governance in the sphere of gender and development, through her presentation on their GADvocate CCR Database.

Faye Mae A. Reyes, the mind behind Ignite Women Philippines, Inc., responded to the discussions with an emphatic assertion that local governance units ought to adopt gender-sensitive approaches and interventions anchored on data-driven governance.

During the event, Julienne Stephanie Fabie-Agapin, an esteemed Assistant Professor at Western Mindanao State University, likewise showcased their groundbreaking innovations that brought to the forefront the impressive contributions of women in empowering their fellow citizens and exploiting every possible avenue to promote their welfare. Responding to the said talk, Hon. Edreluisa O. Calonge, the Municipal Mayor of Mabuhay, Zamboanga Peninsula, offered her insights on the topic at hand.

During the open forum, expert voices were exchanged and knowledge-sharing was in full swing in a discussion moderated by Pamela Grace G. Amantiad. The forum provided a platform for participants to express their diverse perspectives and valuable insights, generating an engaging and thought-provoking discussion.

The Chairperson of RGADC IX, Raymond B. Domingo, imparted a stirring message that encouraged women to take control of their own destiny and become the heroes of their own stories, rather than passive victims.

To liven up the proceedings, Dasig Uno provided a thrilling intermission performance. Afterwards, a video documentation showcasing the remarkable accomplishments of CSO Women Champions was presented, followed by the well-deserved recognition of the exceptional GAD Champion of Zamboanga Peninsula.

Engr. Carmelo Enrique B. Libot, Assistant Regional Director of DILG IX, concluded the forum by extending his heartfelt appreciation to all attendees and stressing the need to carry forward the discourse on gender-responsive local governance.

The WE ACT Forum on Gender-Sensitive Local Governance marked a pivotal moment in advancing gender equality and women’s strides in local governance. As a venue for discourse and idea-sharing, the forum shed light on the urgent call for gender sensitivity and inclusivity across all facets of local governance. It was a momentous stride towards building a more equitable and inclusive society that values the contributions of women and other marginalized groups.