The Regional Gender and Development Committee (RGADC) XII successfully convened its 2nd Quarter Meeting on May 20, 2025, at the DILG XII Wagi Hall, Prime Regional Center, City of Koronadal, South Cotabato, with the Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR) Region 18 serving as the gracious host and sponsor.
The committee expressed its sincere appreciation to BIR 18, headed by Regional Director Christine Juliet R. Chua, for its generous support and warm hospitality, which greatly contributed to the productive conduct of the meeting. BIR 18’s sponsorship reflects its ongoing commitment to promoting gender-responsive governance and active engagement in regional GAD initiatives.
A major highlight of the meeting was the finalization of the SOCCSKSARGEN GADgenda, a comprehensive roadmap that outlines strategic goals, priority programs, and coordinated efforts to advance gender equality and women’s empowerment in the region.
The finalized Regional GADgenda incorporates insights from regional gender assessments, feedback from stakeholders, and alignment with national frameworks, including the Magna Carta of Women and the Philippine Development Plan. It is expected to serve as a guiding document for planning and budgeting processes among member agencies, ensuring a cohesive and sustainable approach to addressing gender issues.
In another key development, the committee formally opened the call for nominations for the next RGADC XII Chairperson. Member agencies and local government units (LGUs) were encouraged to nominate qualified candidates who have demonstrated leadership and a strong commitment to gender and development principles.
The election for the new chairperson is scheduled for September 19, 2025, during the 3rd Quarter RGADC XII Meeting for Calendar Year 2025. The incoming chairperson will serve a three-year term and is expected to lead the committee in implementing the newly finalized GADgenda, strengthening partnerships, and further advancing gender equality in the region.
The Secretariat reminded all member institutions that the deadline for submission of nominations is on September 16, 2025, and encouraged broad participation to ensure a democratic and inclusive selection process.
The meeting concluded with a reaffirmation of RGADC XII’s role as an active platform for promoting gender equality in the region. Member-agencies and LGUs expressed their commitment to the leadership transition and the full implementation of the Regional GADgenda. The committee once again extended its gratitude to BIR 18 for its unwavering support and continued dedication to regional gender and development initiatives.
