On October 10, 2025, the Guimaras State University (GSU), through its Gender and Development (GAD) Office, convened the “Capacity Building of GAD Focal Point System and Finalization of FY 2026 GAD Plan and Budget” at the Agri-Eco Convention Hall, Salvador Campus. The gathering served as an enlightenment session designed to deepen understanding about gender-responsive governance.
Vice President for Academic Affairs (VPAA), Dr. Erly M. Martir, delivered opening remarks, calling attention to the need for institutional systems that support gender-responsive policy and practice. He encouraged participants to approach the day’s work with candor and collaboration, because the outcomes would influence how gender equity is integrated across university operations.
GAD Director Mrs. Frennie D. Zarate presented the session’s purpose—strengthening the GAD Focal Point System (GFPS) at GSU and finalizing the plan and budget for 2026. She reminded attendees that the GAD mechanism must continually be refined if it is to respond credibly to gender gaps in both student life and institutional processes.
In the morning sessions, Dr. Sol M. Basañes, GAD Coordinator for Salvador Campus, introduced the concept of GAD mainstreaming and its implications for policies, programs, and performance indicators. Instructor Loveson C. Gallos, GAD Coordinator of Mosqueda Campus, facilitated a presentation on the GFPS Functionality Assessment Tool, explaining how it measures system maturity across structure, roles, and competencies.
He then joined Instructor French Marie P. Edang, GFPS-TWG member, to walk participants through the Harmonized GAD Guidelines (HGDG) and the PIMME checklist—tools used to ensure gender responsiveness in project design, budgeting, implementation, and monitoring.
In the afternoon, Mrs. Zarate presented the proposed GAD Plan and Budget for FY 2026 and facilitated a session for participants to discuss, adjust, and finalize its contents. The exercise included reviewing proposed programs, matching resources to gender priorities, and ensuring alignment with the university’s strategic and operational goals.
Closing remarks were delivered by Mrs. Janet R. Aleman, Vice President for Administration and Finance (VPAF) and University Board Secretary. She urged members to maintain momentum beyond this session, to follow through not just on paper but in execution and accountability.
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