INTEGRATION OF GENDER AND DEVELOPMENT (GAD) POLICIES AND PRINCIPLES ON GOVERNMENT INFRASTRUCTURE PROJECTS IN NEGROS ORIENTAL

This study assessed the integration of Gender and Development (GAD) policies and principles within government infrastructure projects managed by Local Government Units (LGUs) in Negros Oriental. The primary objective was to evaluate the level of GAD mainstreaming across different project phases and to determine its impact on promoting inclusivity and equality. Employing a quantitative approach, the study gathered data from 75 respondents, comprising engineering officers, planning officers, and GAD focal persons. An online survey and a sampling method were used to ensure comprehensive representation from all LGUs in the province. Data were analyzed using weighted mean calculations to determine the consistency and degree of GAD integration. The findings revealed a significant internalization of GAD policies and principles, with consistently high ratings indicating that gender sensitivity is now visibly embedded in local infrastructure governance. This reflects a pivotal shift from treating GAD as a mere compliance requirement to embracing it as a genuine conviction. The study uncovered institutional and operational hurdles that challenge the capacity of LGUs to convert knowledge into sustained action. It concluded that while a transformation is underway, this progress must be reinforced with systemic support, unwavering political will, and continuous innovation so that gender responsiveness becomes a permanent and active practice in development.