The Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) Region V in collaboration with the Philippine Commission on Women, held an orientation on the GFPS Functionality Assessment Tool (GFAsT) on August 29, 2024. The event, held via Zoom and streamed on the DILG Facebook Page, saw over 400 participants, including GFPS members from various Local Government Units (LGUs) in Region V.

The goal of the orientation was to improve the effectiveness of the Gender and Development (GAD) Focal Point System (GFPS) within LGUs. The GFAsT was introduced as a key tool to assess and enhance GFPS by identifying its strengths, weaknesses, and areas for improvement. This aims to ensure that gender mainstreaming is effectively integrated into local policies, planning, budgeting, and evaluation.

Kim Harold T. Peji from the Philippine Commission on Women led a comprehensive discussion on the GFPS Functionality Assessment Tool. His presentation provided participants with the necessary skills and tools to use the GFAsT effectively, promoting the adoption of gender-responsive programs and policies within LGUs.

The orientation highlighted the agency’s ongoing commitment to fostering inclusive growth and development through improved gender mainstreaming practices.