DILG XI Integrates Gender Concept in Kapehan to Promote Women Empowerment and Gender Development

In a bid to deepen awareness and strengthen advocacy for women empowerment and gender equality, the Department of the Interior and Local Government Region XI (DILG XI) launched a gender-integrated initiative during its regular Kapehan session on April 7, 2025, at the Local Governance Resource Center (LGRC) Conference Room.

The session featured a timely and relevant discussion on Gender Sensitivity and Gender-Fair Language, led by OIC-Provincial Director Djamyla Caballero of the DILG Davao Occidental Provincial Office. A passionate Gender and Development (GAD) advocate, PD Caballero shed light on key gender concepts, aiming to cultivate a more inclusive and respectful workplace within DILG XI.

During her talk, PD Caballero explained the difference between gender and sex, stressing that sex refers to the biological and physiological characteristics that define men and women, while gender pertains to the roles, behaviors, and attributes that a society considers appropriate for individuals based on their perceived sex. She emphasized that understanding this distinction is crucial in recognizing and addressing gender-based issues both in the workplace and in the communities DILG serves.

She also underscored the importance of using gender-fair language in official documents, communication, and daily interactions. According to PD Caballero, language shapes perceptions and, when used thoughtfully, can break down stereotypes and promote equality.

This initiative is part of DILG XI’s ongoing commitment to gender-responsive governance. By embedding gender concepts in internal platforms such as Kapehan, DILG XI affirms its role in championing GAD principles not just through policy, but also through education and practice among its personnel.

DILG XI intends to continue featuring gender-related topics in future Kapehan sessions as it works toward creating a more inclusive, equitable, and empowered workplace and society.