08/04/2026
The Training-Workshop on the Harmonized Gender and Development Guidelines (HGDG) and the GAD Focal Point System Functionality Assessment Tool (GFAsT) was successfully conducted from April 6 to 8, 2026, at Hotel Alunsina, Roxas City. The activity aimed to enhance the knowledge and capacity of participants in gender mainstreaming, particularly in applying HGDG tools and assessing the functionality of the GAD Focal Point System (GFPS).
Day 1: April 6, 2026 (Monday)
The program commenced with the registration of participants followed by the preliminaries, including the singing of the Philippine National Anthem and invocation. Opening remarks were delivered by the University President, Dr. Efren L. Linan represented by the University Vice President for Administration and Finance Dr. Mary Ann B. Martelino setting the tone for the three-day workshop. The objectives of the activity was presented by Dr. Jesusa L. Luda, University GAD Director and the flow of activities was presented by Dr. Mayflor Asurquin, GAD Chairperson, Roxas City Main Campus to guide participants on the workshop flow and expectations.
A pre-test was administered to assess the participantsโ baseline knowledge. This was followed by the introduction of participants by Prof. Clarence M. dela Cruz, GAD Chairperson of Pilar Satellite College and resource speakers by Prof. Kristine S. Bartocillo, GAD Alternate of Roxas City Main Campus, fostering a collaborative learning environment. Expectation setting and ground rules were also discussed to ensure smooth facilitation.
The morning session featured an introduction to Gender Mainstreaming and Gender Analysis (GA) tools (by Mr. Kim Harold T. Peji, resource speaker from PCW) providing foundational knowledge essential for the workshop. After the lunch break and an energizer prepared by Dr. Regie G. Gillaco, GAD Chairperson of Dayao Satellite College, the afternoon session delivered by Mr. Peji focused on an overview of the Harmonized Gender and Development Guidelines (HGDG), highlighting its significance in integrating gender perspectives into programs and projects.
The day concluded with a workshop on accomplishing the HGDG design checklists, allowing participants to apply their learnings in practical scenarios. Announcements and reminders were given before adjournment by Prof. Jhenina P. Oducado, GAD Chairperson of Dumaro Satellite College.
Day 2: April 7, 2026 (Tuesday)
The second day began with registration and a recap of the previous dayโs activities by Dr. Aizel C. Coroz, GAD Chairperson of Tapaz Satellite College to reinforce key concepts. The morning plenary session involved the presentation of Workshop 1 outputs, where participants shared their group outputs and insights.
Session 3 (by Mr. Peji) focused on operationalizing HGDG elements, emphasizing the integration of gender analysis into the GAD Plan and Budget. This session deepened participantsโ understanding of applying gender-responsive approaches in planning processes.
In the afternoon, the participants enjoyed and had fun with the energizer prepared by Prof. Bryan Dether L. Luza, GAD Chairperson of Sigma Satellite College. It was then followed by discussion of Session 4 (by Mr. Kris Joven M. Medalla, resource speaker from CHR) that provided orientation on relevant policies, including PCW Memorandum Circular 2011-01, CHED Memorandum Order 2015-01, and the GFPS Functionality Assessment Tool (GFPS-FAsT). This session highlighted the institutional mechanisms for gender mainstreaming. Subsequently, Workshop 2 was conducted, where participants worked on accomplishing the GFPS-FAsT. The day ended with announcements and reminders to prepare participants for the final day with Dr. Lanie E. Avelino, GAD Chairperson, Burias Campus.
Day 3: April 8, 2026 (Wednesday)
The final day started with registration and a recap of Day 2 by Dr. Charry B. Tachado, GAD Alternate of Roxas City Main Campus. The plenary session featured the presentation of Workshop 2 outputs, showcasing participantsโ assessments and recommendations.
Session 5 (by Mr. Medalla) focused on translating GFPS-FAsT indicators into actionable strategies, particularly in mainstreaming identified gender issues into the GAD Plan and Budget. This session emphasized practical application and sustainability of gender initiatives. A post-test and evaluation were conducted to measure participantsโ learning gains and gather feedback on the workshop. This was followed by the awarding of certificates and tokens in recognition of participantsโ active involvement and expertise of the two resource speakers.
The 3 day program hosted by Dr. Marien A. Laureto, GAD Chairperson, Pontevedra Campus concluded with closing remarks, expressing gratitude to all participants, facilitators, and organizers for the successful conduct of the training-workshop.
The three-day training-workshop effectively enhanced participantsโ competencies in gender mainstreaming, equipping them with the necessary tools and knowledge to integrate gender perspectives into institutional plans, programs, and policies. The active participation and collaboration among attendees contributed significantly to the achievement of the workshopโs objectives.
