The city government, through its Gender and Development (GAD) Office, has established a Local Media Board (LMB) to strengthen efforts in promoting gender-sensitive policies and programs.

This initiative aims to address gender biases and stereotypes through collaborative efforts involving the academe, media practitioners, and other stakeholders within the city.

During an organizational meeting held Wednesday at Monte Vista Hotel and Resort here, the LMB’s foundational structure was formalized. The event brought together local and national media practitioners, university professors from communication programs, city information officers, and representatives from non-governmental organizations (NGOs).

Jasmin Siman, the supervising administrative officer of Calamba City’s GAD Office, facilitated the discussions.

The LMB will be chaired by Mayor Roseller Rizal, with City Councilors Lian Aldabe-Cortez and Alvin Manguiat serving as vice chairpersons.

The Information, Investment Promotions, and Employment Services Office (IIPESO) will oversee program linkages, training, and development initiatives. The academe will focus on research, policy formulation, and evaluation, while media practitioners will take the lead in information dissemination and monitoring.

Siman shared that an initial budget of PHP1 million has been allocated for the LMB under the city’s Annual Investment Plan (AIP) for 2025. This funding is part of the PHP250-million GAD appropriation for the year.

“Beyond our mandates from international commitments, laws, and policies, we are custodians of the people’s trust and resources,” Siman emphasized. “With our power, knowledge, skills, and resources, we can ensure that development works for everyone in the city.”

This initiative highlights Calamba City’s commitment to gender equality and inclusivity, creating a platform for collaboration and accountability in achieving development goals. (PNA)