By Harley G. Margallo
The Department of Science and Technology (DOST)-CALABARZON, through its Gender and Development (GAD) Unit, has taken a step forward in promoting gender equality and employee welfare with the launch of its Gender and Development (GAD) Multi-Purpose Help Desk on August 14, 2024, at the DOST-CALABARZON Regional Office in Los Baños, Laguna. The GAD Multi-Purpose Help Desk is designed to address various needs of the department’s employees, by consolidating several crucial functions under one roof.
This facility marks a major upgrade from the previous GAD corner setup, transitioning to a dedicated multipurpose space.
The launch of this new facility coincides with the anniversary of the Republic Act 9710 also known as the Magna Carta of Women, and National Breastfeeding Awareness Month. This alignment serves as a testament to DOST-CALABARZON’s commitment to mainstreaming GAD.
“Having a GAD help desk in our office only shows the commitment of our top management, since this helpdesk will serve as the frontline or the starting contact point for a safe space to relax, collaborate, and create an open dialogue for discussion, advice, and provide positive intervention to address gender-related issues and concerns,” said Ms. Lyn A. Fernandez, Assistant Regional Director for Finance and Administrative Services and GAD Executive Committee Vice-Chairperson.
The multipurpose space houses four key functions:
● GAD Help Desk: Offers advice and interventions on gender-related issues and provides technical assistance for GAD policies and planning.
● Committee on Decorum and Investigation (CODI) Mini-Conference Room: Provides a private space for deliberations and investigations on sensitive matters.
● Lactation Room: Complies with RA 10028 (Expanded Breastfeeding Promotion Act of 2009).
● Kumustahan Lounge: Fosters open dialogue between employees and HR personnel.
This initiative enhances the department’s gender-related services and promotes a healthier workplace environment. The facility aims to strengthen collaboration on GAD efforts and provide a safe and inclusive space for employees to address various concerns.
The GAD Unit is encouraging all staff members to actively utilize the new facility. “We request the active participation of our staff to use the facility because if we do not utilize it, the establishment of the facility will not achieve its intended purpose,” Mr. Ristian Aldrin C. Calderon, DOST-CALABARZON GAD focal person, added. “And with the Kumustahan Lounge, it’s now more inclusive and open for all staff members.”
As government agencies continue to adapt to the evolving needs of their employees, DOST-CALABARZON’s GAD Multi-Purpose Help Desk stands as a significant advancement in gender mainstreaming efforts.It demonstrates how thoughtful space allocation can address multiple needs while promoting important social initiatives.
The launch of this facility represents DOST-CALABARZON’s ongoing efforts to create a more inclusive and supportive work environment, setting a precedent for other government agencies to follow.
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