GAD LLH: Shaping Change in Visayas

To support local government units (LGUs) in advancing gender mainstreaming, the Philippine Commission on Women (PCW), through its Local Gender and Development (GAD) Resource Program, developed the GAD Local Learning Hub (LLH)—a program which certifies local gender-responsive programs, services, and facilities.

Referred to as the Gender And Development Transformation and Institutionalization through Mainstreaming of Programs, Agenda, Linkages, and Advocacies (GADTimpala) for LGUs, the GAD LLH institutionalizes the sharing and replication of gender mainstreaming initiatives at the grassroots level.

Currently, 16 LGUs nationwide have secured GAD LLH certification, representing 33 recognized programs, services, and facilities. In the Visayas region, five certified GAD LLHs fall under three classifications, shaping change and strengthening gender-responsive governance in line with the strategic goals of gender equality and women empowerment (GEWE).

Gender-Based Violence Response, Interventions, and Facilities

Gender-based violence (GBV) response, interventions, and facilities play a crucial role in addressing the needs of GBV victim-survivors by providing protection, support, and rehabilitation services. As of now, 11 GBV-related initiatives and facilities have been certified across the country, three of which are located in Visayas.

Men Opposed to Violence Against Women Everywhere (MOVE) Aklan Chapter 

Men Opposed to Violence Against Women Everywhere (MOVE) is a volunteer organization in the Philippines committed to ending all forms of violence against women (VAW). It empowers local authorities at the municipal and barangay levels to lead advocacy campaigns and raise awareness, particularly among men, on issues related to VAW. 

The MOVE Aklan Chapter has made significant progress in shifting attitudes and behaviors, fostering a community that actively stands against GBV and promotes gender equality.

Aklan Comprehensive Center for Women (ACCW)

The Aklan Comprehensive Center for Women (ACCW)—popularly known as Daeangpan it Mga Kababayen-an It Aklan— was established in 2001 as a 24-hour reception and action center for walk-in, rescued, or referred women and children who are abandoned, exploited, or rescued whose lives are at risk due to the presence of the perpetrator. It caters to both Aklanon and non-Aklanon.

The ACCW ensures the provision of comprehensive and integrated support services that address economic, health, legal, and psychosocial needs to help victim-survivors rebuild their lives.

Talisay City’s Women and Child Development Center (WCDC)

The Women and Child Development Center (WCDC) in Talisay City, Cebu, offers a comprehensive rehabilitation program for survivors of violence against women and children (VAWC), human trafficking, and children-at-risk. Anchored on care, healing, and teaching, the program integrates psychotherapy, education, arts, animal interaction, spiritual enrichment, and recreational activities.

Through partnerships with LGUs, non-governmental organizations, community groups, and private enterprises, WCDC strengthens the sustainability of its program and expands its reach to serve more women and children in need.

Women’s Economic Empowerment Programs

The Women’s Economic Empowerment (WEE) programs support individual livelihood initiatives and strengthen community-based enterprises. To date, five WEE programs have been certified nationwide, with one located in the Visayas. 

Baybay City Women’s Economic Empowerment Program 

The Baybay City implements the WEE Program through its City GAD Office. This initiative provides livelihood assistance to six women-led micro-entrepreneur organizations, creating economic opportunities within the community. 

A key element is the Baybay Food Processor Association, which produces innovative kamote-based products—such as chips, ice cream, and baby food. To help the association become self-sustaining, the LGU has provided capitalization, ensuring a vital source of livelihood for its members.

GAD Database 

The GAD Database is an essential tool for gender-responsive planning, programming, and policy formulation. It serves as a critical component of an organization’s overall management information system, enabling data-driven decision-making. As of 2025, only Visayas has a certified GAD Database. 

Baybay City’s Barangay Management Information System (BMIS)

Established through City Ordinance No. 7, Series of 2014, the Barangay Management Information System (BMIS) was rolled out in all barangays of Baybay City. The System collects and utilizes data to assess community situations and identify needs and issues, playing a critical role in the city’s development. BMIS generates and maintains sex-disaggregated data, which is essential for gender-based analysis and for the formulation of gender-responsive local development plans. 

Fun fact: The BMIS is the first and only GAD Database program in the Philippines certified as a GAD LLH. 

How to Visit a GAD Local Learning Hub

The GAD LLHs showcase the best practices, innovative programs, and successful gender mainstreaming efforts of LGUs across the country. These hubs serve as learning sites for local communities, organizations, and individuals aiming to enhance their GAD initiatives.

To ensure a meaningful and productive visit, proper coordination with the LGU is essential.

STEP-BY-STEP GUIDE TO VISITING A GAD LOCAL LEARNING HUB

Learn and Replicate: GAD LLHs in Visayas