COTABATO CITY— Following the capacity-building on Gender and Development (GAD) for the regional members of the Ministry of Environment, Natural Resources, and Energy’s (MENRE) GAD Focal Point System (GFPS) last September, the Ministry has organized another GAD Planning and Budgeting Training Workshop for the members of GFPS in the Provincial ENRE Offices on February 20-21 at Pagana Kutawato, Cotabato City, to equip the participants with necessary knowledge and skills to create gender-responsive plans and budget.
During the two-day training workshop, the participants engaged in interactive sessions and explored gender sensitivity practices. Provincial ENRE Offices participants also delved into understanding the nuances of gender dynamics, stereotypes, and the importance of promoting inclusivity in all aspects of their work. The workshop also emphasized the need to mainstream gender considerations across policies, programs, and projects.
Administrative and Finance Services (AFS) Director Al-Sharif M. Tamburani stated in his opening remarks that MENRE has consistently implemented measures to guarantee equal opportunities for both genders in the Ministry. He also added that “the Ministry is also committed to maintaining a fair and impartial environment for both men and women, and by integrating GAD, we can create a more resilient and sustainable environment.”
Furthermore, GAD Specialist Lyndon Enriquez from the Bangsamoro Women’s Commission provided insights about Gender Mainstreaming and has guided in the completion of GPB and GAD AR of the Ministry. On the other hand, GAD Specialist II, Bai Febraidah Karon, led the Gender Sensitivity Training and explored the salient features of BWC-MFBM-BPDA JMC 2023-01.
Participants were given the avenue to address gender disparities in the Ministry or to the Ministry’s programs, if any, and to ensure that women’s voices and participation are heard and women are well-represented in environmental decision-making.
“Let us challenge the status quo, advocate for meaningful change, and hold ourselves and others accountable for advancing gender-responsive policies and practices. Let us remember that gender equality is not just a moral imperative. Still, a strategic necessity for sustainable development,” said Rowaida D. Lalang, the Chief Administrative Officer, in her closing remarks as read by Sharia Shane Sema.
“Let us commit ourselves to translating knowledge into action and to working tirelessly towards a world where everyone has an equal opportunity to thrive,” she also added.
The outcomes of these training-workshops extend beyond mere paperwork. As the training workshop concluded, MENRE will continue to integrate a gender perspective into planning and budgeting and will further strengthen gender-responsive initiatives for a more sustainable and just Bangsamoro region.
