THE Bangsamoro Parliament is reviewing a proposed Gender and Development (GAD) code to strengthen gender-responsive programs across the region, focusing on grassroots implementation.
A recent public hearing by the parliament’s Committee on Women, Youth, Children, and Persons with Disabilities in Basilan highlighted calls for a barangay-centered approach to integrating gender equality initiatives.
Local leaders pointed out the need for grassroots involvement to advance equality effectively.
Vice Governor Yusop Alano proposed the creation of gender resource and learning centers in every barangay, aiming to provide education, resources, and capacity-building programs tailored to community needs.
The GAD code, formalized in Bangsamoro Transition Authority (BTA) Bill No. 336, seeks to mainstream gender-responsive programs into local government development plans.
The Bangsamoro Women Commission (BWC), under the proposed legislation, will guide ministries, offices, and local government units in implementing year-round gender initiatives.
The bill mandates the Ministry of the Interior and Local Government (MILG) to oversee these efforts, ensuring adherence to gender-inclusive policies across government operations.
Key provisions include the use of gender-fair language in official communications and fostering an environment that respects and empowers all genders.
Bangsamoro Women Commissioner Faija Taalil emphasized the bill’s potential to address disparities and empower marginalized groups, while Indigenous Peoples Mandatory Representative Ansar Gadja called for gender-responsive infrastructure in rural areas, particularly for Indigenous women.
Committee Chair Diamila Disimban-Ramos underlined that the GAD code aims not only to empower women but to uplift all marginalized groups across the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (Barmm).
Further public consultations are scheduled in Maguindanao del Norte and Sur, Marawi City, and other areas to refine the bill based on community feedback.
