The Gender Research and Policy Journal (GRPJ) is proud to present its inaugural issue, featuring five papers from esteemed gender advocates and scholars in the Davao Region and beyond. Published by the Region XI Gender and Development Advocates Network (RGAN XI), this journal is our response to the ever-growing need to address gender issues in the local context, while contributing to global gender equality goals.
The journal aims to contribute to international scholarship and the attainment of Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly on SDG 5: Gender Equality, by providing locally grounded evidence and insights. This initiative seeks to inspire scholars within the Region to mainstream gender perspectives in their respective disciplines, highlighting the cross-disciplinary nature of gender and development (GAD). GRPJ serves as a platform for disseminating advocacy-driven research through a rigorous yet constructive review process.
A communication paper by Jhonnel P. Villegas, Milton Norman D. Medina, and Emily S. Antonio honors Dr. Analyn A. Cabras, a leading Filipina Coleopterist, for her contributions to beetle taxonomy and biodiversity conservation in the Philippines. It highlights the persistent gender disparity in science, especially in specialized fields like Coleopterology. Her work included naming new beetle species and establishing international collaborations, benefiting Filipino scholars and boosting scientific productivity in the country. Despite health challenges, she remained active in research and mentorship until her passing in 2024. Her legacy includes over 100 scientific publications and the description of at least 94 new beetle species. The paper describes her as a role model for women in science and a symbol of empowerment, resilience, and excellence.
In the second paper, Ingrid Natalie Rose D. Jaugan and Orencita V. Lozada explore how men and women perceive intimacy, passion, and commitment, highlighting the need to bridge perceptual divides for marriage harmony. Women view passion through emotional connection, while men prioritize physical and recreational bonding. Commitment for women centers on emotional endurance and family well-being, while men see it as fulfilling obligations. The emotional toll of marital breakdown is heavier on women, necessitating tailored post-marriage psychological support. Conflicts often stem from gendered misalignments, with women focusing on emotional neglect and men stressing on financial strain and miscommunication. These tensions underscore the importance of gender-sensitive guidance programs to counteract ingrained marital stereotypes. The study culminates in the development of “On the Same Page”, an intervention program promoting equality and mutual understanding, advancing SDG 5 by fostering mutually beneficial and sustainable partnerships.
Another study by Rodolfo Ruelo Jr. and Sadie D. Law-ay reports that Republic Act 11861, also known as the Expanded Solo Parent Welfare Act, enhances support for solo parents, aiming to alleviate poverty and improve their circumstances as they continue to support their children. The paper reveals that the internet is the frequently utilized communication channel, while radio is the least, highlighting the importance of digital media in disseminating government programs. The use of communication channels and awareness levels are found to be interlinked. Enhancing digital literacy among solo parents is crucial for better understanding and access to benefits. The study aligns with global gender goals by empowering solo parents, particularly women, and promoting gender equality through improved access to support systems. This proactive approach fosters social equity and contributes to the overall well-being of families, echoing the commitment to sustainable development.
The paper of Kristine Joy G. Calilung, Althea A. Ladia, Raquel F. Laday, and Joanaros P. Fahit explores the lived experiences of women evacuees during flood disasters. Women face challenges including overcrowding, lack of necessities, and no breastfeeding spaces. Despite these difficulties, they demonstrate resilience and cope with challenges by optimizing aid from the government and donors, reaching out for help on social media, resource networking among evacuees, using improvised materials, and maintaining strong faith in God. The study further suggests capacitating crisis managers and improving disaster response infrastructures for better service delivery. This resonates with the global gender equality discourse by highlighting the overlooked experiences of women in disaster contexts and advocating for inclusive, rights-based approaches to disaster management that address their specific needs.
The last paper by Jeff John Y. Hiyas, Joanna Rose E. Ramos, Camelle Fuerzas, and Sadie D. Law-ay investigates university students' perceptions and support for inclusive dress codes in state universities and colleges. An inclusive dress code allows students to dress according to their gender
identity, promoting safety, comfort, and self-expression. Students, particularly LGBTQIA+ and women, strongly agreed that such policies enhance confidence, self-esteem, and a sense of belonging in school. The study identifies a gap in existing dress code policies that often reinforce gender binaries and marginalize non-conforming students. It is suggested that inclusive dress codes align with SDGs 4 and 5, promoting quality education and gender equality. The authors recommend policy reforms in state-funded tertiary schools to institutionalize inclusive dress codes, fostering a more equal and respectful academic environment.
These papers collectively underscore the importance of recognizing and addressing genderbased disparities through scholarly discourses and inclusive policies. The insights gathered from the published studies emphasize the multifaceted dimensions of gender equality and the critical
importance of addressing local gender-related challenges to advance SDG 5. This amplifies the voices of women in various fields, including science, human development, communication, disaster response, and education. It is fundamental to continue fostering inclusive practices and policies that empower individuals and abolish the barriers hindering gender equality. With this initiative, GRPJ hopes to forge a more just and gender equal society, paving the way for a thriving future for all.