Published on: September 01, 2023 | Written by: Beatriz Faye G. Carreon

To comprehensively assess whether the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) IX has fulfilled the eight (8) Gender and Development (GAD) requirements outlined in the GAD Seal Certification Program, an on-site evaluation was meticulously carried out on August 31, 2023, at the DILG IX Regional Office in Pagadian City. The successful attainment of these criteria would result in the esteemed GAD Seal being conferred upon the Department.  

The GAD Seal Certification Assessment, a rigorous procedure, is orchestrated by representatives from the GAD National Assessment Committee (NAC). This committee, consisting of delegates from the DILG Central Office and with advisory input from DILG XII, the pioneers of the GAD Seal, undertakes the pivotal task of evaluating compliance. Initially encompassing DILG Regional Offices, this certification initiative is poised to include all Local Government Units (LGUs) nationwide, showcasing its comprehensive reach. 

Mary Ann R. Traspe, at the helm of the NAC, fervently emphasized DILG’s unwavering commitment to setting a paradigm by adhering to governmental policies, including the GAD Program. Traspe highlighted the increasing integration of GAD-related PPAs into the governance agenda, harnessing them as  instruments of positive transformation to foster diversity, gender parity, and inclusivity within the government.

Willibald Patrick P. Paglinawan, the Chief Administrative Officer of DILG IX, extended a warm reception to the assessors, underscoring the pivotal role of the GAD Seal in not only attracting top-tier talent to government service but also in establishing the institution’s stature as an equal opportunity employer, valuing all genders and abilities. This, in turn, bolsters its public image and reputation.  

Kicking off the assessment, Joselito Magumun, Assistant Division Chief of LADD – BLGD, elucidated the intricacies of the GAD Assessment process and offered insights into the anticipated timeline for bestowing the GAD Seal Certification Program. 

Subsequently, Alvin Rex M. Lucero, DILG IX LGCDD Chief, provided an in-depth overview of the GAD projects and endeavors spearheaded by DILG IX. The Regional Gender and Development Focal Point System (GFPS) led the assessors on a comprehensive tour of the office’s GAD Corner, exemplifying their commitment, and showcased their Breastfeeding and Child-minding Station. 

Concluding the assessment, Chief Lucero extended heartfelt gratitude to the NAC for dedicating their time and effort to the GAD evaluation process for DILG IX. Furthermore, he pledged to diligently address all observations and recommendations brought forth by the NAC. 

In the wake of the recently concluded assessment, the Regional GFPS is resolute in surpassing the requisites of the GAD Seal, vowing to propel the advancement of gender equality and inclusivity within the region to greater heights.