The Forest Management Bureau (FMB), through its Gender and Development (GAD) Focal Point System, conducted an “Assessment-Workshop on FMB Gender Mainstreaming Initiatives Using the Gender Mainstreaming Evaluation Framework (GMEF)” from 02-03 July 2025 at Microtel by Wyndham UP Technohub, Quezon City.

The GMEF is a comprehensive tool used to assess the levels of GAD mainstreaming in four key areas: Policy, People, Enabling Mechanisms, and Programs, Activities, and Projects. It also features five levels, representing the different stages at which an organization may stand in its gender mainstreaming efforts.

During its 2024 self-assessment, the FMB scored 47.45 out of 100 points, placing it at Level 2. This indicates that while strategic mechanisms are in place, stronger integration is required to deliver measurable impacts for both women and men.

To validate the results of the initial assessment, the Bureau organized this activity with technical support from a certified member of the Philippine Commission on Women National GAD Resource Pool. Beyond validation, it aimed to further build the participants’ capacity in utilizing the GMEF and to formulate action points addressing key gaps and challenges.

Over the course of the workshop, participants reviewed and refined the organizational assessment questionnaires covering FYs 2022 to 2024. This led to a recalibrated GMEF score of 66.38, successfully elevating the FMB to Level 3. This milestone marks a significant step toward institutionalizing gender responsiveness within the Bureau and underscores its continued commitment to inclusive governance and sustainable development.