Published: 13 October 2023

In a bid to strengthen gender mainstreaming in the agency, Philippine Fisheries Development Authority – Gender Focal Point System (PFDA-GFPS) held a three-day Gender and Development (GAD) Planning and Budgeting for Fiscal Year (FY) 2024 and 2025 via teleconference on October 11 to 13, 2023. 

The three-day workshop followed the Philippine Commission on Women’s (PCW) Memorandum Circular No. 2023-02 about the Preparation and Online Submission of FY 2024 GAD Plans and Budgets under Section 36 of Republic Act No. 9710 or the Magna Carta of Women (MCW). 

In her opening remarks, PFDA Assistant General Manager Ms. Iris R. de Vera welcomed all the GAD Technical Working Group representatives from the Central Office and Regional Fish Ports nationwide. Ms. de Vera reminded the participants about the importance of this activity in the advancement of gender equality and women empowerment and other genders in the agency. 

“We must stay focused on what we want to achieve in years to come. Let us all assess our goals and focus on achieving the goal that we set. Let us put extra effort into this workshop at isapuso natin itong ginagawa natin to advance gender equality and empowerment,” Ms. de Vera said. 

During the workshop, RFP representatives had a one-by-one session where they presented their GPB for FY 2024 and 2025 and discussed it with PFDA-GFPS Overall Technical Working Group (TWG) Head Mr. Mc Christian Julius A. Macaranas II, Assistant Overall Head Ms. Mary Ann D. Daquer, Head of the Committee on Policy Formulation, and Head of the Committee on Policy Formulation, Planning and Budget (CPFPB) Mr. Aaron Amberson A. Dalisay.

According to PCW, government agencies conduct a GAD Plan and Budget to address gender issues and concerns in their respective sectors and constituents.

Through this activity, the PFDA aims to systematize its approach to gender mainstreaming, women’s empowerment, and gender equality in the workplace.

(PFDA Public Information Division)