DILG Caraga Inaugurates GAD Spaces within its Regional Office

Under the helm of Asst. Regional Director, Officer-In-Charge Donald A. Seronay, the Department of the Interior and Local Government - Caraga Regional Office celebrated the blessing and inauguration of the Gender and Development (GAD) Spaces located at the 2nd floor of the DILG XIII Building, Doongan, Butuan City, on June 23, 2023.

The inauguration was graced by the Regional Director of the Commission on Population and Development (POPCOM) and RGADC Chairperson Alexander A. Makinano and guests from DOH, DSWD and PIA, whom took part in the ceremonial-ribbon cutting ceremony.The significant milestone of GAD was celebrated further through a short program participated by the children of DILG employees.

In his message, ARD Seronay stressed the need to implement GAD spaces and the Magna Carta of Women (MCW) in the work places. “As we continuously campaign and advocate for gender equality and women empowerment, DILG and other government agencies should be leading the efforts to conform with the laws,” ARD Seronay added. Further, he commended the personnel of DILG Caraga through the GAD Focal Point System (GFPS) for their stern efforts and commitment in making the agency part of the eight (8) gender-responsive agencies recognized by RGADC Caraga.

RGADC Chairperson RD Makinano expressed his support on the activity and highlighted that the integration of the GAD Spaces within the Institutional Office supports the cause of the POPCOM on upholding family importance, by allowing a thriving balance between work and parental duties.

The turned-over GAD Spaces of DILG Caraga have a Lactation Room, Children's Nook and Gender Equality, Disability and Social Inclusion Corner, hence, considered complete and all-in-one GAD Spaces.The facility is equipped with a television, books and other reading materials, child diaper changing, refrigerator, and children’s toys. Additionally, the spaces were child-proofed to ensure the maintenance of a safe environment for learning and playing even with the absence of adult supervision. The establishment of which is a response to the long-sought longing for spaces to express the gender-related needs of the employees.