In a powerful tribute to resilience and inclusion, the Persons with Disability Affairs Office (PDAO), in partnership with the Gender and Development (GAD) Office, spearheaded the “Selection of 10 Empowered Women with Disability” — a recognition initiative honoring the remarkable contributions of women with disabilities in the local community.
Launched in line with the National Disability Rights Week, the project aims to highlight the inspiring stories of women who, despite physical, social, or economic barriers, have emerged as leaders, advocates, and role models in their respective fields.
The selection process gathered nominations from various barangays and organizations, showcasing women who have made significant impacts in livelihood, education, community service, and disability advocacy. These ten empowered women are living proof that strength, determination, and leadership know no bounds.
By giving voice and visibility to these outstanding individuals, the initiative reinforces the city’s commitment to inclusive governance and gender equality. It also emphasizes the importance of mainstreaming the rights and welfare of women with disabilities into local programs and development agendas.
As part of the City’s gender-responsive recovery and social protection efforts, the City Social Welfare and Development Office (CSWDO), through the 5% Gender and Development (GAD) Fund, distributes Livelihood Assistance for Women in Especially Difficult Circumstances (WEDC) to 22 beneficiaries.
The program aims to support women who are survivors of violence, solo parents, persons with disabilities, KALIPI members and those facing severe socio-economic challenges. By providing livelihood starter kits tailored to their skills and interests, the initiative seeks to promote self-reliance, economic empowerment, and social reintegration.
“This program is more than a form of assistance — it is a lifeline for women rebuilding their lives. Through this intervention, we want them to know they are seen, supported, and empowered to thrive,” said Ms. Rosenda Liwanag, the City Social Welfare and Development Officer.
Funded under the 5% GAD Fund and implemented in line with the City’s Annual GAD Plan and Budget, the initiative is also aligned with national gender equality and women’s empowerment priorities.
The CSWDO, in coordination with the GAD Office, will continue to monitor the progress of the beneficiaries and provide necessary technical guidance to ensure the sustainability of their chosen livelihood projects.
In a meaningful step toward upholding the rights and dignity of persons deprived of liberty (PDLs), the Bureau of Jail Management and Penology (BJMP), with support from the 5% Gender and Development (GAD) Fund, completed the construction of a child-friendly area and a conjugal room within the city’s jail facility.
This initiative underscores the City Government’s commitment to integrating gender sensitivity and family welfare into custodial care, recognizing the unique needs of women PDLs and their families. The project was implemented in alignment with the Annual GAD Plan and Budget, as well as national directives promoting gender-responsive and humane correctional systems.
The child-friendly area provides a safe, welcoming, and age-appropriate space for children visiting their detained parents — a vital measure to preserve the parent-child bond during incarceration while minimizing trauma on the child. Meanwhile, the conjugal room serves as a private space to strengthen spousal relationships and uphold the marital rights of qualified PDLs, subject to BJMP protocols.
The project was inaugurated on March 28, 2025 as part of the Women’s Month celebration. It was attended by representatives from the Office of the City Mayor, GAD Office, CSWDO, and other partner stakeholders. It stands as part of the continuing effort to humanize jail facilities and create environments that support the emotional, psychological, and social well-being of PDLs and their loved ones.
Continuing the City’s commitment to inclusive and gender-responsive economic development, the City Agriculture Office led the distribution of agri-fishery livelihood start-up kitsto selected rural women beneficiaries. The initiative aims to strengthen the role of women in agriculture and fisheries by providing them with the tools and inputs necessary to engage in sustainable, home-based livelihood activities. This GAD-funded project recognizes the critical yet often overlooked role of rural women in ensuring food security and contributing to the local economy. By investing in their capabilities, the City not only supports women’s economic empowerment but also promotes more resilient and self-reliant communities.
“This is more than just a livelihood program — it’s a way of empowering rural women, who play a vital yet often unrecognized role in sustaining farming households,” said Dr. Mary Jane Alcedo, City Agriculturist. “With the right support, they can transform their communities from the ground up.”
Monitoring and technical assistance will continue to be provided by the City Agriculture Office, in coordination with the GAD Office, to ensure the sustainability and success of the beneficiaries’ projects.
The Gender and Development (GAD) Office leads a vibrant, inclusive, and empowering series of activities aimed at honoring the strength, resilience, and contributions of women during the Women’s Month celebration.
Among the highlights during the celebration are; Cook Fest featuring Ilokano Dishes, where women participants showcased their culinary talents and revived heirloom recipes that reflect the rich cultural heritage of the region, the Queen Mother Pageant, an inspiring tribute to senior women in the community. The pageant recognized their life experiences, wisdom, and continued influence within their families and barangays, proving that beauty, grace, and strength are ageless. To further invest in women’s growth, the GAD Office organized a series of Capacity Development Trainings focused on leadership, rights awareness, financial literacy, and wellness. A major milestone for the city’s gender agenda was also reached through the blessing and inauguration of the GAD Building. This dedicated space will serve as a safe haven for GAD programs, consultations, and support services — symbolizing the City’s sustained commitment to gender equality and empowerment. In a strong push for public awareness and enforcement of gender laws, the celebration also featured the Ceremonial Pasting of Republic Act 11313 (Safe Spaces Act) Stickers on tricycles operating within the City. This symbolic activity reinforced the message that public spaces — including transport — must be safe and respectful for all, especially for women and girls.
Through these meaningful initiatives, the City reaffirmed its dedication to creating an inclusive environment where women are recognized not just during Women’s Month, but all year round — as leaders, caretakers, workers, advocates, and changemakers.
In solidarity with the global call for equality, inclusion, and pride in identity, the Gender and Development (GAD) Office proudly led the City’s Pride Month Celebration, bringing together members of the LGBTQIA+ community and allies in a meaningful showcase of empowerment, health, talent, and recognition.
The celebration featured a variety of inclusive programs designed to uplift, support, and spotlight the contributions and needs of the LGBTQIA+ sector. Among the activities during celebration are: Livelihood Training on Dishwashing Liquid Making, Free HIV Consultation and Awareness Campaign, the exciting Pride Run and Drag Race and the Pride Awards, a special recognition ceremony honoring Most Outstanding Members of the LGBTQIA+ Community for their contributions in advocacy, community service, entrepreneurship, and leadership. Awardees received certificates of recognition and cash incentives, affirming their valuable role in local development and inclusive governance.
Pride Month is not just a celebration — it is a platform to advance equality, support safe spaces, and recognize the diverse identities and strengths of our people. Through these activities, the GAD Office continues to champion the rights, welfare, and visibility of the LGBTQIA+ sector, as part of the City’s broader vision for a gender-fair and inclusive community.
Love, dignity, and equality took center stage as the City Civil Registry Office regulallry conducts Free Civil Mass Wedding every February of the year.
The initiative primarily catered to indigent residents, and each couple was assisted with free processing of legal documents, marriage licenses, and ceremonial arrangements. Beyond the romantic significance, the program also addressed the broader goal of strengthening families and safeguarding the rights of spouses and their children under the law.
Each newlywed couple received official marriage certificates, a symbolic token from the City, and a reception prepared to mark their special day.
The Free Civil Mass Wedding stands as one of the City’s continuing gender-responsive interventions that promote equal access to civil rights, particularly among marginalized and underserved populations.
Recognizing the need to prioritize mental health alongside physical well-being, the City Government, through the City Health Office and with support from the 5% Gender and Development (GAD) Fund, has launched “Kumusta Ka, Fernando and Fernanda Plus” — a mental health support program designed for City Government employees, as well asBarangay Health Workers (BHWs), Barangay Nutrition Scholars (BNSs), and Barangay Service Point Officers (BSPOs).
Frontline barangay workers and government employees face daily pressure in delivering services to the public. Through this program, the City understands that their well-being also matters.
The “Plus” in the program title signifies expanded support — not just a one-time check-in, but an ongoing effort to build emotional resilience, promote mental wellness, and create an organizational culture that values care work and well-being.
The program also serves as a concrete response to the increasing demand for mental health services among local public servants, especially in the post-pandemic period.
With “Kumusta Ka, Fernando and Fernanda Plus,” the City affirms its commitment to holistic health — acknowledging that mental well-being is essential to effective service delivery, gender equality, and a thriving workforce.
Search for the Most Outstanding Barangay Violence Against Women and their Children (VAWC) Desk
Republic Act No. 9262, or the Anti-Violence Against Women and their Children (VAWC) Act, aims to address violence by intimate partners, including husbands, ex-husbands, live-in partners, and others. The Magna Carta of Women requires each barangay to establish a VAW Desk, which serves as a frontline service provider for victims of physical, sexual, psychological, economic, and other forms of abuse. Managed by a designated officer, VAW Desks are typically located in barangay halls.
In compliance with RA 9262, all barangays in the City of San Fernando have set up their VAW Desks to record and assist victims. City Ordinance No. 2019-27 established the Search for the Most Outstanding VAWC Desk to recognize and reward barangays’ efforts in combating VAWC, fostering a culture of appreciation and motivating others.
The Functionality Assessment, launched in 2021 is now an annual activity to monitor and improve the performance of the 59 barangays in San Fernando, La Union.
The Anti-Sexual Harassment (ASH) Referral System is a comprehensive mechanism designed to support and assist individuals who experience sexual harassment in any form, whether in the workplace, educational settings, or public spaces. This system provides a safe, confidential, and accessible platform for victims to report incidents of sexual harassment, ensuring that they receive immediate support, protection, and access to appropriate legal, medical, and psychological services. Through a network of trained personnel, including referral officers and support staff, the ASH Referral System guides victims through the process of reporting, investigating, and resolving cases. It offers resources such as counseling, legal advice, and referrals to law enforcement, ensuring victims’ rights are upheld. The system aims to create a safer environment by raising awareness, preventing harassment, and holding perpetrators accountable.
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