𝐏𝐑𝐎𝐏𝐎𝐒𝐄𝐃 𝐆𝐀𝐃 𝐂𝐎𝐃𝐄 𝐎𝐅 𝟐𝟎𝟐𝟔 𝐆𝐄𝐓𝐒 𝐏𝐁’𝐒 𝐅𝐈𝐍𝐀𝐋 𝐀𝐏𝐏𝐑𝐎𝐕𝐀𝐋
The Cebu Provincial Board (PB) has approved on third and final reading a proposed ordinance institutionalizing the Cebu Provincial Gender and Development (GAD) Code of 2026, a measure aimed at strengthening gender-responsive governance and protection mechanisms across the province.
The ordinance supports Gov. Pamela Baricuatro’s Executive Order No. 55, Series of 2025, and Executive Order No. 55-A, Series of 2026, which established the province’s Gender and Development (GAD) Focal Point System.
Authored by PB Member Lakambini Reluya, the ordinance, which was approved on Monday, June 15, during the PB’s regular session, institutionalizes the Gender and Development Office and the Gender and Development Focal Point System (GFPS) while integrating a provincewide Gender-Based Violence (GBV) Response System.
The code mandates the mainstreaming of GAD in all provincial programs, projects and services and applies to all departments, offices, component cities, municipalities and barangays in Cebu.
Among its key provisions are the creation of a Gender-Based Violence Inter-Agency Council (GBVIAC), the establishment of Violence Against Women (VAW) Desks in all barangays, and the provision of accessible medical, legal, shelter and protection services for survivors of gender-based violence.
Provincial GAD Focal Person Rainbee Grace Moro welcomed the measure’s approval, describing it as a landmark step toward strengthening gender mainstreaming in the province.
“Under the leadership of Gov. Pamela Baricuatro, this reflects our strong commitment to building a more inclusive and gender-responsive province. More than just a policy, this is about ensuring that every Cebuano has equal access to opportunities, protection and support, and feels safe, valued and empowered. As we move forward, we will work closely with our communities, partner stakeholders and local government units to ensure its effective implementation and continue strengthening programs and systems so that no one is left behind,” Moro said.
The ordinance is expected to further boost Cebu’s efforts to promote gender equality, protect vulnerable sectors and ensure inclusive development throughout the province. /CAPITOL PIO, File Photos
Check this also: Capitol, GCash Partner to Enable Faster and More Convenient Digital Payments in Cebu
