CEBU, Philippines - The Municipality of Liloan has created a commission for the welfare of women.
The Municipal Commission for the Welfare of Women will act as coordinator in the implementation of programs and activities for women.
Councilor Thelma Jordan authored the ordinance creating the body and designating the same as focal point of the Gender and Development in the municipality.
The ordinance was enacted to ensure that the rights of women and the belief in their worth and dignity as human beings are fully recognized and upheld.
“It mandates that women shall be recognized as full and equal partners of men in all family and community development efforts, including sharing equal role with men in all forms of productive and reproductive activities,” read the ordinance.
The body is also tasked to assist and monitor programs and activities of committee on women or of an equivalent commission at the barangay level.
It also serves as the official voice of women in the municipality and the liaison of the municipal government on matters and issues affecting women.
It will also conduct studies relating to problems and concerns affecting women and recommend solutions.
Mayor Vincent Franco Frasco, as chairman, will appoint officers and members of the Commission upon the recommendation of the Municipal Council’s committees on human rights, women and family and shall have a term of three years with only one re-appointment.
The sub-committees for Women and Gender-Response Cases/Situation, and Anti-Trafficking in Persons shall assist the MCWW.
An initial funding of P200,000 is appropriated for the operation of the body. (FREEMAN)