ARMM’s GAD Program Plan takes shape
ISABELA CITY, Basilan, Philippines/23 June 2009 by Dave Malcampo–The program on gender issues and concerns in the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao is being firmed up, following a 2-day workshop in Cotabato City last week.
In a press statement, the Bureau of Public Information reported that the Regional Sub-Committee on Gender and Development (RESCGAD) has formulated Wednesday its long and medium-term plans, and outlined its strategic action for the next three years.
The BPI report said that the conduct of the June 16-17 workshop was spearheaded by the Regional Commission on Bangsamoro Women (RCBW), in partnership with National Commission on the Role of Filipino Women (NCRFW), and the Local Governance Support Program for ARMM (LGSPA).
Some 35 RSCGAD member-agencies attended the workshop. Also in attendance were the 5 Provincial Commissioners of the RCBW: Ms Jasmin Domado of Lanao Sur; Hja Mariam Ali of Sulu; Peruza Hamsiraji of Tawitawi; Hajar Muarip of Basilan; and Hja Fatima Macabangen from Maguindanao.
Workshop resource persons include: Ms. Alice Rosero, Chief of the Policy Development and Advocacy Division, NCRFW; Rosena Sanchez of Mindanao Working Group; and Gemma Boreros of LGSPA.
BPI quoted Hadja Salama Khadiguia Ampatuan to have said that the creation of the RSCGAD in 2007 is a manifestation of the regional government’s commitment in advancing the women in this part of the country. Hja Salama, who heads the RSCGAD, is the chairperson of the RCBW.
With members coming from various line agencies, the RSCGAD is tasked to coordinate and facilitate the mainstreaming of GAD programs and projects within the region.
In particular, the sub-committee does massive advocacy campaign to promote awareness on GAD issues and concern through sector consultations, orientations, seminars, and through the production of information, education and communication (IEC) materials.
Gender issues and concerns cover a wide-range of topics, like: traditional roles assigned to men and women by societal norms; division of labor; equal opportunities for personal growth; stereo-typing and gender bias; reproductive health and reproductive rights; violence against women; gender sensitivity in media reporting; and many more. (Dave Malcampo, BPI-ARMM/PIA9-BST)
