The Local Government Unit of Claveria, through its Gender and Development (GAD) Focal Point System (GFPS), successfully conducted a one-day training on Basic GAD Concepts and Gender Sensitivity last November 21, 2015 at the LGU Conference Hall, MP Main Building. The activity was attended by GFPS members and facilitated by the GFPS Secretariat, underscoring the municipality’s commitment to mainstreaming gender equality in local governance.

The program began with preliminaries, including the opening prayer, national anthem, and welcome remarks from Municipal Mayor Hon. Karen M. Ballesteros. Participants were then introduced to the day’s learning sessions, which aimed to strengthen their understanding of gender issues and equip them with practical tools for promoting inclusivity in public service.

The highlight of the event was the lecture-discussion led by Dr. Noel R. Rafer, Professor VI of Bicol University and a member of the Philippine Commission on Women’s National GAD Resource Pool (Batch 9). Dr. Rafer, a noted sociologist and advocate for social inclusivity, presented the results of the Training Needs Assessment (TNA) and guided participants through the fundamentals of GAD concepts. His expertise, drawn from years of academic leadership and advocacy, provided valuable insights into the importance of gender sensitivity in policy-making and program implementation. 

In the afternoon, Dr. Rafer facilitated the Gender Sensitivity Training proper, engaging participants in interactive discussions and reflective exercises. The sessions emphasized the role of local government employees in fostering gender-fair practices and  that services are responsive to the needs of both women and men. 

Open forums allowed participants to raise questions and share experiences, making the training both participatory and practical.

The event concluded with the awarding of certificates to participants and the resource person, followed by closing remarks from HRMO II and GAD Focal Person Cris Anthony S. Alzado, who highlighted the importance of sustaining gender-responsive initiatives in the municipality.

Through this training, LGU Claveria reaffirmed its dedication to advancing gender equality and empowering its workforce to become champions of inclusive governance. The activity also strengthened the GFPS Secretariat’s role in ensuring that GAD principles are integrated into local programs, projects, and activities.