[Iloilo City] – The Mines and Geosciences Bureau Regional Office VI (MGB VI) organized a training focusing on giving its workforce an Orientation on Gender and Development (GAD) and GAD Analysis Tools. Conducted on March 14-15, 2024 at the Days Hotel in Iloilo City, the activity was part of the agency’s celebration of International Women’s Month with the theme “Lipunang Patas sa Bagong Pilipinas; Kakayahan ng Kababaihan, Patutunayan!”
A training team from the National Economic Development Authority VI (NEDA VI) provided technical assistance in equipping the participants with a review and understanding of Gender and Development concepts, and in applying inclusive and gender-transformative planning, budgeting, and project implementation. The NEDA VI team was composed of Enp. Roxanne C. Yap (Supervising Economic Development Specialist of the Project Development, Investment Programming and Budget Division), Enniss Albert M. Pareja (Senior Economic Development Specialist of the Project Monitoring and Evaluation Division), and Ira G. Pahila (Senior Economic Development Specialist of the Development Research Division).
Five students undergoing On-the-Job Training from Central Philippine University joined the MGB VI personnel during the training.
Ms. Mae Magarzo, chief of the Geosciences Division and Gender and Development (GAD) Focal Person gave the opening message saying the training aims to instill Gender and Development (GAD) principles within a governmental agency tasked with geological science studies and enforcing laws and regulations on the mining sector. This agency primarily comprises mining engineers and geologists who work predominantly in field settings.
By integrating GAD principles into their practices, the agency seeks to foster an environment of inclusivity, equity, and gender sensitivity within its operations. This involves raising awareness among staff regarding the significance of gender considerations in their work, such as in policy formulation, decision-making processes, and field operations.
Furthermore, the training aims to equip personnel with the necessary knowledge and tools to address gender-related issues and promote gender equality within the context of geological sciences and the mining industry. This includes understanding how gender dynamics may influence various aspects of their work, from community engagement to environmental management.
Over two days, MGB VI personnel engaged in interactive sessions, workshops, games, role-playing, and discussions led by expert facilitators in the field of gender studies and human resource management. (MGB VI)
