Gender Equity Integration in Selected Government Agencies of Ilocos Sur

Abstract

Men and women in an organization have different needs and experiences. They should be treated equally in the organization, not only given equal access to opportunities and services. This study determined the gender equity integration and implementation in selected government agencies in the Province of Ilocos Sur, particularly in its programming and organizational processes. Employing the mixed methods of research, using the quantitative and qualitative research methods, 104 staff from support to senior management in five selected government agencies in the Province served as respondents. The chosen government agencies have integrated gender equity to a great extent, particularly on the programming of activities, but only to a moderate extent on organizational processes. Agencies used gender equity in their programs, plans, and activities. The agencies have focused more on the monitoring and evaluation of gender equity in their programming activities. In the organizational process, the selected agencies have extensively considered reinforcing the operation of gender-sensitive behavior and procedures to address sexual harassment. Regarding integrating gender equity in the organization, the selected government agencies successfully put into practice gender policies, strategies, and procedures in their programs, projects, and activities to provide equal access to services and opportunities for both men and women in the organization. The selected government agencies have also highly implemented gender equity in the hiring process and personnel evaluation/assessment and gender sensitivity in the organization's culture.