By Benjamin Cuaresma
MANILA — The Philippine Commission on Women (PCW) is urging government agencies not to sideline programs for women amid the national energy emergency.
In Advisory No. 2026-001, PCW calls on agencies to adjust project modalities for greater energy efficiency while ensuring that Gender and Development (GAD) mandates remain fully implemented.
PCW emphasizes that agencies have a duty to protect women across every phase of relief, recovery, and reconstruction under the Magna Carta of Women (RA 9710).
GAD budgets are protected and strictly for their intended purpose, and ensuring their proper utilization is imperative for continuous delivery of essential services for women.
The Commission’s message is clear: conserve energy without compromising progress on gender equality and women empowerment.
Agencies are reminded to prioritize GAD implementation and utilize GAD budgets effectively to support women’s needs.
ia/xf
