The Regional Development Council (RDC) XII convened its First (1st) Quarter Meeting for Calendar Year (CY) 2025 on March 12, 2025, at NEDA XII Conference Hall, Prime Regional Center, City of Koronadal, South Cotabato, to discuss key regional development initiatives, policy directions, and sectoral and affiliate committee reports. A significant highlight of the meeting was the presentation of the first-quarter resolutions of the Regional Gender and Development Committee (RGADC) XII Meeting CY 2025, underscoring the council’s commitment to gender-responsive governance and inclusive development.
As the region's main policy-advising body on gender and development (GAD), Atty. Rochelle D. Mahinay-Sero, CESE, DILG XII Regional Director, led the RGADC XII in presenting several important resolutions to the RDC XII for information and adoption. These resolutions aim to strengthen gender mainstreaming in different areas.
The integration of RGADC XII’s resolutions into the RDC XII agenda aligns with the national government’s directives on gender equality and social inclusion. Among these is Executive Order No. 273, Series of 1995, which institutionalized the Philippine Plan for Gender-Responsive Development (PPGD) 1995-2025. This directive mandates all levels of government to mainstream gender perspectives into their development policies, programs, and projects to eliminate gender disparities and advance women's empowerment.
RDC XII Chairperson Hon. Emmylou “Lala” Taliño-Mendoza, Provincial Governor of Cotabato, praised the RGADC XII for its proactive approach in addressing gender-related issues. “Gender and Development (GAD) is one of the fundamental pillars of positive governance, ensuring that every individual, regardless of gender, has equal opportunities to thrive and contribute to our community’s progress,” she stated.
The first quarter of RDCXII meetings set the tone for a productive year ahead, with gender-responsive governance at the forefront of the region’s development agenda. Through collaborative efforts, the region aims to build a more inclusive, equitable, and progressive community for all.
