GAD Talks seminar at PhilRice Bicol 
Discussions on vital role of women at PhilRice Batac 
Roundtable discussion to evaluate GAD mainstreaming efforts at PhilRice CES 
Basic GAD Orientation and Gender Sensitivity Training at PhilRice Agusan
The Institute celebrated 2025 National Women’s Month in March with a series of Gender and Development (GAD) initiatives in its headquarters and branch stations. The month-long celebration themed “Babae sa Lahat ng Sektor, Aangat ang Bukas sa Bagong Pilipinas” aimed to promote Gender Equality and Social Inclusion (GESI), in line with the Magna Carta of Women.
The series of events strengthened GAD integration in agriculture and development programs by capacitating women and vulnerable sectors through GAD orientation and gender sensitization with farmers, financial literacy sessions, machinery operation training, webinars, livelihood support, and series of GAD coaching with the program leaders to ensure gender responsiveness of program/project implementation. These efforts built confidence among empowered women farmers, enhanced workplace gender sensitivity, and fostered stronger partnerships among local stakeholders. Branch stations also hosted unique and fun activities, such as “GAD Talks”, Zumba sessions, wellness services, contests, and appreciation ceremonies for women staffers.
A key highlight of the celebration was the roundtable discussion at PhilRice CES on Mar. 19, where staffers and partners evaluated ongoing GAD mainstreaming efforts and proposed policy improvements to support the transition toward a more inclusive GESI.
