The Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) Region 12 has officially endorsed South Cotabato’s Gender and Development (GAD) budget plan for the fiscal year 2025. This endorsement marks a significant step forward in the province’s commitment to addressing gender issues and promoting gender-responsive governance.
With 5% of South Cotabato’s budget allocated to GAD programs, the province aims to tackle gender-related challenges head-on. The dedicated funding will support a range of initiatives designed to promote gender equality and empower women and marginalized groups within the community.
“We are thrilled with the DILG’s endorsement of our GAD budget plan,” said Melanie C. Chiva, Provincial Population Officer. “This approval reinforces our dedication to creating a more inclusive and equitable environment for all our residents. By ensuring that our projects are GAD-responsive, we can make meaningful strides towards gender equality.”
The DILG’s endorsement is a testament to South Cotabato’s proactive approach in integrating gender perspectives into its local governance framework. The province’s GAD plan includes various programs and activities aimed at addressing gender disparities, providing support for women and vulnerable populations, and fostering an inclusive community.
This development aligns with national efforts to promote gender and development across all levels of government. South Cotabato’s initiative serves as a model for other regions, demonstrating the importance of dedicated GAD funding in achieving sustainable development goals.
