As an agency that promotes equality, DSWD Tarlac Home for Women (THFW) promotes equal treatment to people from different walks of life. 

One of the indicators of equality is the mainstreaming of Gender and Development (GAD). It is considered to be one of the most crucial elements of sustainable development by emphasizing the importance of gender relations. 

There is still a long way to achieve gender equality but more and more women in the Philippines are now empowered and are already affecting the impact on the growing society.

Since not all staff at the center are oriented with GAD, THFW organized training on Gender Sensitivity which was held on 18 September 2019 at THFW Multipurpose Hall.

Ms. Jacqueline Bautista, Center Head and Ms. Leoven Yabut, SWO II, the resource speakers for the session discussed gender roles, gender biases, and gender orientation. The overview of the Sexual Orientation, Gender Identity, and Expression or SOGIE Equality Bill was also shared and it was emphasized that the bill focuses on equality rather than special privileges for the lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) community. Workshops were incorporated after every topic discussed.

Accordingly, the topics enlightened the staff on gender sensitivity and on how to apply the learnings for professional and personal growth. Moreover, they have expressed to further learn more about gender and development and be part of promoting equality within and outside the centers. 

Story by Angela Christinne Q. Villavicencio

 ###