Published on: September 08, 2023 | Written by: Beatriz Faye G. Carreon

Pagadian City, Zamboanga del Sur – The Department of the Interior and Local Government IX organized its 3rd Quarter Meeting for the year, focusing on the formulation of the 2024 GAD Plan and Budget through its Gender and Development (GAD) Focal Point System (GFPS). This significant gathering was held at the DILG IX Conference Hall, Pagadian City. 

The central objectives of this meeting were to evaluate the advancement of GAD initiatives, scrutinize fund allocation and expenditure, and prepare for the impending Onsite GAD Seal Assessment. The event successfully brought together the committed members of DILG IX GFPS. 

The meeting began by conducting a thorough examination of the report on the achievements during the first semester in implementing Gender and Development (GAD) initiatives. This report, which was delivered by Lizzette Regine Boltiador, LGOO VI, illuminated significant progress in advancing gender equality and empowering women within the Department. These achievements strongly reflected DILG IX’s steadfast dedication to seamlessly incorporating GAD principles into its various programs and projects. 

Grace M. Echinique, Budget Officer, proceeded to deliver the report on the utilization of GAD funds and the allocation plan for the GAD Fund in the upcoming CY 2024. These reports emphasized the high level of transparency and efficiency on how GAD funds are distributed and used. The rigorous planning for the forthcoming fiscal year is a clear testament to DILG IX’s unwavering commitment to keeping GAD at the forefront of its initiatives. 

LGOO VI Boltiador took the floor once more to delve into the details of the 2nd Semester Deliverables. These key components, crucial for sustaining GAD initiatives, underwent a thorough examination, underscoring the significance of adhering to timelines and objectives. Additionally, LGOO VI Boltiador offered an overview of the upcoming GAD Seal Assessment, underscoring the imperative for a united endeavor and careful groundwork to attain this highly sought-after recognition.

Yanna Gabrielle Nasol, Faye Edcel Marie Orga, and Grizzelle Elardo, Local Government Operations Officer II, collaboratively introduced the Proposed Provincial GAD Activities. Their presentations illustrated the varied strategies employed by Local Government Units (LGUs) to tackle gender inequalities, offering a vibrant display of the array of GAD initiatives flourishing within the region.

Catherine B. Daan, LGOO VI, provided a detailed explanation of the stipulations found within the PCW-NEDA-DBM Joint Memorandum Circular 2012-01. Through her presentation, she guaranteed that every member gained a thorough understanding of the established rules and guidelines that oversee the execution of GAD initiatives, a pivotal aspect in upholding adherence.

Alvin Rex M. Lucero, the Head of the TWG within GFPS, delivered a presentation on the Entry Points of Gender Mainstreaming into the fundamental operations and procedures of DILG IX. This emphasized the organization’s unwavering dedication to the practice of gender mainstreaming.   

The meeting also encompassed an evaluation of GFPS functionality, led by Lizzette Regine Boltiador. This assessment allowed members to contemplate the efficiency of the system and pinpoint areas that could be enhanced. It underscored GFPS’ dedication to ongoing development and advancement. 

The conclusion of the two-day gathering featured a GAD Planning and Budgeting Workshop, overseen by Alvin Rex M. Lucero, the Head of GFPS TWG. During this workshop, participants had the opportunity to work together, share insights, and formulate strategies for the upcoming year. This workshop underscored DILG IX’s commitment to fostering a society that is more inclusive and fair. 

The 3rd Quarter GFPS Meeting alongside the formulation of the 2024 GAD Plan and Budget played a pivotal role as a significant space for introspection and strategic thinking. This event reinforced DILG IX’s steadfast dedication to promoting gender equality and empowering women throughout Region IX. As the meeting came to a close, it resonated with a strong message of optimism and resolve to persist in the pursuit of a more just and equitable future.