To strengthen the awareness on gender and development, the Office of the Wali of Bangsamoro conducted the program entitled “Strengthening bonds and cooperation among the employees towards gender responsive governance” at Villa Amparo, Samal Island, Davao del Norte on November 28-29, 2023. Led by Officer-in-Charge Omarkhalid A. Ampatuan and attended by dedicated employees, the initiative aimed to fortify awareness on gender and development. During the program, participants engaged in comprehensive discussions that enabled them to grasp the nuances of gender-responsive governance and its relevance to their specific roles. This event also served as a pivotal platform for the formulation of strategic plans and activities geared towards enhancing gender awareness within the office in the coming years.
Officer-in-Charge Omarkhalid A. Ampatuan, in his inspirational message, highlighted the pivotal role of unwavering faith in shaping an office that aligns with the principles of inclusivity and gender responsiveness. His words resonated with the commitment of the office’s employees to embody gender sensitivity as they serve under the Ceremonial Head of the Bangsamoro Government. “Today as we create a more gender responsive governance system in our office, it is essential that we strengthen our bonds and cooperation as a team with the ambit however of Islamic principles; the noble Qur’an and the Sunnah of Holy Prophet Muhamad (S.A.W). It is with these collective efforts and unity based on Islamic faith that we can truly achieve an environment of an equal opportunities and inclusivity to all.”
Beyond the formal discussions, the program facilitated a deeper understanding among employees by delving into personal aspects such as expectations, potential sources of hurtful actions or words, and sources of happiness in their respective fields. This interpersonal exploration aimed to foster a stronger team spirit within the office. The resource person of the activity, Akrima Arap of UNYPHIL-Women played a pivotal role in guiding participants towards a more profound understanding of freedom of choice for employees, emphasizing the potential positive or negative outcomes associated with individual decisions. Arap also encouraged creative thinking and urged employees to explore the unconventional paths for personal growth, stressing that this approach contributes to becoming more gender-responsive professionals.
Teamwork emerged as a central theme, with Akrima Arap highlighted its importance in preventing burnout and maximizing the impact of the office’s efforts. She emphasized the value of training individuals to become leaders within the team, she stated that effective teamwork is essential for creating a positive office environment. “Teamwork must be valued: Dapat ma train maging isang leader.”
Lastly, Akrima Arap elucidated that gender responsiveness extends beyond acknowledging the needs of men and women; it also involves ensuring equal access to the programs initiated by the BARMM Government. In a call to action, she urged the employees of the Office of the Wali of Bangsamoro to become bridges connecting the Bangsamoro community with the Government, positioning them as agents facilitating communication and understanding. “Be an agent that connects the people and the Government.” as expressed by the resource person.
The commitment to support the Bangsamoro Government in recognizing the indispensable contributions of Bangsamoro men and women in nation-building and regional development underline the office’s dedication to fostering a more inclusive, gender-responsive, Office of the Wali of Bangsamoro. (OWB/Nur-Jihad Abbas)