An Evaluation Study on the Institutionalization of Gender and Development Programs in Selected Local Government Units of Bulacan Province, Philippines

This study discusses the Gender and Development (GAD) institutionalization at the local level. It aims to explore the practices of the Local Government Units (LGUs) in relation to how they respond to the gender needs of the people. This specifically aims to analyze the institutionalization of GAD by conducting policy, program, and structure evaluation in three selected LGUs in Bulacan, Philippines. This was made possible by looking at the three important dimensions of GAD: the process, outcome, and structural dimensions. The data for evaluation were gathered through interviews with the LGU key officials, review of the LGUs’ GAD Plan and Budget, GAD Accomplishment Reports, and GAD Code, and focus group discussions with the participants of the selected Gender and Development programs. This evaluation study found out that the GAD that is being institutionalized in the LGUs is still far from the true idea of Gender and Development. The programs fall short of empowering women and addressing inequalities and discrimination. In two of the three LGUs, non-GAD programs outnumber and outweigh GAD programs in terms of budget allocation. The inadequate understanding of GAD among key government officials and implementers and the absence of appropriate organizational arrangements contribute to the institutionalization of GAD that does not fully address strategic gender needs of the community.

Keywords– Evaluation Study, Gender and Development, Institutionalization, Local Government Units, Women Empowerment