BONTOC, Mountain Province – The provincial government is actively working towards strengthening its gender and development (GAD) programs.
The Provincial GAD Focal Point System (GFPS) spearheaded an activity which aimed to finalize the GFPS Functionality System using certain assessment tools. Per guidelines, the GFPS is tasked to ensure the effective implementation of GAD programs across all levels of government in the province. The meeting was held at the Provincial Capitol Conference Hall on November 8, 2024.
The three assessment tools include Gender Functionality Assessment Tool (GFAST) which is used to evaluate the GAD-related functions of different government agencies and departments.; Gender Mainstreaming Evaluation Framework (GMEF) which assesses the integration of GAD principles into policies, programs, and projects; and the Gender Responsive Local Government Unit (GERL) which evaluates the overall responsiveness of local government units to gender equality issues.
In addition, the meeting aimed to give recommendation/s for the enhancement of an existing local issuance about the establishment and operationalization of the GFPS, to ensure its alignment with the evolving needs and priorities of the province.
The meeting was attended by representatives from various government agencies, department representatives of the provincial government, and non-government organizations involved in the GFPS.
“This collaborative effort aims to ensure that the GFPS is robust and effective in promoting gender equality and empowering women and girls in the province; thus, we expect to have a clear roadmap for the implementation of the GFPS, including specific action plans and timelines to further enhance our GAD programs and create a more equitable and inclusive society for all,” Provincial GAD Focal Person Eunice G. Andaya said. By Hail, MP
