In line with President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s directive to eliminate gender-based discrimination and promote women’s rights, the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) has recognized 16 of its regional offices through the Gender and Development (GAD) Seal Certification Program.
The GAD Seal Certification is a key DILG initiative designed to promote institutional gender mainstreaming within the department. It is based on assessment criteria and documentary requirements, a scoring system, and a certification procedure.
“Each seal conferred today tells the story of a regional office that has translated gender-responsive governance into action. These offices have implemented innovative programs, advanced inclusivity, and upheld the principles of equality and social justice,” said DILG Undersecretary Atty. Jon Paulo.
In a memorandum, DILG Secretary Jonvic Remulla stressed that recognizing and incentivizing gender mainstreaming efforts contributes to a more coherent and nationwide approach to gender equality, ultimately empowering women and marginalized sectors across the country.
The program employs a three-tier recognition system: Gold, Silver, and Bronze, based on performance scores. Regional offices must achieve a minimum of 70 points to qualify for certification. Those scoring below 70 are not awarded the GAD Seal.
For this year, the DILG GAD Seal Gold awardees are the regional offices of the Cordillera Administrative Region and Regions II (Cagayan Valley), VII (Central Visayas), X (Northern Mindanao), and XII (Soccsksargen). Silver awardees include the National Capital Region, CALABARZON (Cavite, Laguna, Batangas, Rizal, Quezon), and Regions I (Ilocos Region), IX (Zamboanga Peninsula), and XIII (Caraga). Bronze awardees are the regional offices in MIMAROPA (Mindoro, Marinduque, Romblon, Palawan) and Regions III (Central Luzon), V (Bicol Region), VI (Western Visayas), VIII (Eastern Visayas) and XI (Davao Region).
The GAD Seal is awarded annually, with each certification valid for one year from the date of issuance.