Twenty-two Gender and Development (GAD) Focal Persons and advocates from Region XII gathered in Koronadal City on May 12–14, 2026, for “Fine-tuning GADvocates: A Training on Gender and Development Concepts, Tools and Mechanisms for GAD Focal Persons” organized by DILG Region XII. The activity aimed to strengthen capacities in gender analysis, project proposal preparation, and the formulation of LGU GAD Plans and Budgets, while deepening appreciation of gender sensitivity and inclusivity.

From gender sensitivity and SOGIESC to hands-on workshops on SOGIESC or Sexual Orientation, Gender Identity, Gender Expression and Sexual Characteristics, GeRL Assessment Tool, GFPS Functionality Assessment Tool (GFAST), and the Harmonized GAD Guidelines (HGDG) Design, participants learned how to craft gender-responsive project proposals and review LGU GAD Plan
and Budgets in response to the PCW-DILG-DBM-NEDA JMC 2024-02 or the Revised Guidelines on the Localization of Magna Carta of Women. Resource persons were the GAD experts of DILG XII and the DILG Bureau of Local Government Development, and the National GAD Resource Pool member, Gemma R. Macatangay. The training concluded with a graduation ceremony graced by OIC Assistant Regional Director Engr. Samual A. Camaganacan. The training provided them with a fresh perspective and collective commitment to sustain capability-building, mentoring, and collaboration among LGUs. By equipping local leaders with tools for genderresponsive governance, Region XII takes another step toward building inclusive, equitable, and safe communities for all