The Gender and Development Focal Point System (GFPS) of the Province of Cavite successfully conducted its 2nd Quarterly Meeting on June 11, 2025, from 2:00 PM to 3:30 PM via Zoom.
Ms. Janeal Krayjn Rebutazo, Extension Coordinator of GADRC, joined other GFPS representatives from various provincial offices in the said meeting which focused on strengthening gender mainstreaming efforts, monitoring progress of GAD-related programs, and aligning the GFPS structure with the incoming provincial administration.
The meeting also covered key agenda items including updates from previous sessions, reporting on GAD Plan and Budget (GPB) implementation, and the reconstitution of the GFPS Executive Order. Ms. Aliyah Gonzales from the Office of the Provincial Social Welfare and Development Officer (OPSWDO) opened the meeting, while Mr. Mark Lester A. Carada of the Provincial Planning and Development Office presided the session.
Highlights included the reading of minutes from the previous meeting where it was confirmed that the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) had officially joined the GFPS Technical Working Group. Ms. Gonzales also shared updates on the composition of the Monitoring and Evaluation (M&E) Team, ensuring representation from various sectors such as women’s organizations and the academe.
Ms. Danica Pontimar presented updates on GAD budget-charged activities, particularly the notable accomplishments by OPSWDO, which provided welfare assistance to over 7,500 individuals and delivered a province-wide health caravan for women that reached 1,543 beneficiaries. The Office of the Provincial Cooperative, Livelihood & Entrepreneurial Development also conducted a gender-focused seminar attended by 57 cooperative members.
Mr. Carada presented the signed 2026 GPB, outlining the challenges encountered during the preparation phase and reaffirming the province’s commitment to responsive planning. A significant portion of the meeting was dedicated to the discussion on reconstituting the GFPS Executive Order to reflect leadership changes brought about by the new administration. The draft EO will facilitate the transition and ensure the GFPS remains functional and inclusive.
Other matters discussed included the planning for the 2026 Regional Women’s Month Celebration and the expansion of GFPS Council membership to include representatives from MOVE, 4Ps, Solo Parents, PSA, and the Provincial Library.
The meeting concluded with a collective affirmation of continued support for gender-responsive governance and development in Cavite.
