DILG XI GFPS Holds 1st Quarter CY 2025 Meeting, Tackles Strengthening of GAD Mechanisms and GAD Seal Program Implementation

The Department of the Interior and Local Government Region XI (DILG XI) successfully held the 1st Quarter Calendar Year 2025 Meeting of the Gender and Development (GAD) Focal Point System (GFPS) on March 25, 2025, at the Local Governance Regional Resource Center (LGRRC) Conference Room.

The meeting was presided over by DILG XI Regional Director Abdullah V. Matalam and was attended by all members of the newly-reconstituted DILG XI GFPS. Members from the DILG Field Offices across the region also participated via Zoom, ensuring broad and inclusive representation.

The activity focused on strengthening the internal GAD mechanism of the region. The composition and functions of the DILG XI GFPS were revisited to reinforce the roles and responsibilities of each member in mainstreaming gender and development within the organization. The importance of the GFPS in promoting gender-responsive governance, both internally and in support of local government units, was emphasized.

A key item on the agenda was the discussion of DILG Memorandum Circular No. 2025-024, titled “Revised Guidelines for the Implementation of the GAD Seal Program for DILG Regional and Provincial Offices, Repealing DILG MC No. 2023-070 entitled Gender and Development (GAD) Seal Program for DILG; and Establishing the National and Regional Assessment Committee.” This issuance outlines updated guidelines for the implementation of the GAD Seal Program, which aims to recognize DILG Regional and Provincial Offices that demonstrate exemplary performance in gender mainstreaming.

It was clarified that the revised GAD Seal Program is currently applicable only to DILG Regional and Provincial Offices, as part of the Department’s internal capacity-building and performance recognition efforts. The issuance also introduces the creation of National and Regional Assessment Committees to ensure a standardized and objective evaluation process.

Regional Director Matalam urged all members to familiarize themselves with the updated guidelines and to take proactive steps in preparing their respective offices for the GAD Seal assessment. He underscored the importance of the program as a tool not only for recognition but also for institutionalizing a culture of gender sensitivity and accountability within the Department.

With renewed commitment and collaborative efforts from regional and field personnel, DILG Region XI continues to pave the way for more inclusive and gender-responsive public service delivery.