Educo Philippines reaffirmed its commitment to gender equity and social inclusion by conducting a Gender and Development (GAD) Training for its staff. The training aimed to strengthen the team’s ability to integrate a gender-sensitive perspective into program implementation and advocacy efforts.
Held in line with International Women’s Day (IWD) celebration, the training was designed to enhance staff members’ foundational knowledge of gender sensitivity, social institutions, and Philippine gender laws. It was made possible through the support of the Australian Volunteers Program (AVP), with Australian volunteer Ms. Tanvi Bhatia playing a key role in its organization.
Fostering Gender Sensitivity in Development Work
The morning session focused on building a deeper understanding of Gender Sensitivity and Social Institutions. Participants explored the significance of gender and development in shaping societal structures and relationships. Discussions revolved around the question, “Why Gender and Development?”, emphasizing its role in achieving social justice and equality.
The session also covered key topics such as gender as a social construct, gender and social institutions, and SOGIESC (Sexual Orientation, Gender Identity, Gender Expression, and Sex Characteristics). Participants reflected on how to apply gender sensitivity in Educo’s work, ensuring that programs are more inclusive.
Understanding Philippine Gender Laws
The afternoon session, facilitated by Atty. Arlene Q. Alangco, provided a comprehensive overview of Philippine gender laws that promote and protect the rights of women and marginalized groups. She discussed RA 9710 – The Magna Carta of Women, which she described as “a comprehensive women’s rights law that seeks to eliminate discrimination and promote substantive equality”.
Atty. Alangco also explained RA 7877 – The Anti-Sexual Harassment Law, highlighting that “this law defines and penalizes sexual harassment in workplaces, schools, and training institutions, ensuring that individuals, especially women, are protected from any form of abuse”.
Lastly, she delved into RA 11313 – The Safe Spaces Act, stating that “this law expands protection against gender-based sexual harassment in public spaces, online, and even in workplaces, ensuring safer and more inclusive environments for everyone”.
Through these discussions, Educo staff gained a deeper understanding of the legal frameworks that protect gender rights and prevent discrimination and harassment.
Commitment to Gender Equity and Child Protection
Educo Philippines’ Interim Program Manager, Jaypee Mapula, underscored the interconnection between gender equity and child protection. He emphasized that “this activity is part of our goal to achieve DEI in our programming. Women are one of the sectors in society that are vulnerable and deprived of their rights. Although here at Educo we are promoting the rights of the children, we also promote gender and women’s rights because it has interconnection. When we promote gender and women’s rights, we are also ensuring that within the family, community, social equity, and social justice are highly ensured. When such things are ensured, we can see children’s rights and wellbeing highly visible in families and in our communities.”
The Australian Volunteers Program also expressed its support for Educo’s gender initiatives, stating, “In that spirit, we proudly support this workshop for EDUCO. By offering a small grant, we aim to help build on existing insights on Gender and Inclusion, fostering reflection, growth, and innovation. Let’s join hands—with determination and heart—to transform the lives of our communities, uplifting all, regardless of gender.”
Strengthening Educo’s Child Protection Approach
Reflecting on the impact of the training, Carla Mae Bremen, Child Protection Specialist, shared, “The training provided valuable insights that will enhance the organization’s approach in fostering gender equity and inclusivity in all our works, may it be in our individual work or as an organization. It equips staff with the knowledge to integrate gender-sensitive practices into our work. This training will strengthen our existing efforts in promoting an inclusive and fair environment, especially for the children.”
As Educo Philippines continues to champion children’s rights, it remains committed to ensuring gender equity and inclusivity in all aspects of its work. Through initiatives like this GAD training, the organization takes a step forward in creating a safer, fairer, and more inclusive society for all.
