DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH

GENDER AND
DEVELOPMENT
SECTORAL AGENDA
2024 - 2028
Gender and Development Sectoral Agenda
Philippines 2024-2028
Department of Health, 2024

Published by
Health Policy Development and Planning Bureau
Department of Health
San Lazaro Compound
Rizal Avenue, Sta. Cruz
Manila 1003, Philippines

The mention of specific companies or of certain products does not imply preferential endorsement or
recommendation by the Department. This report may be reproduced in full or in part for non-profit purposes
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a copy of the reprinted or adapted version will be appreciated.

An electronic copy of this publication can be downloaded at: www.doh.gov.ph.

ISSN No.

Suggested Citation: Department of Health. (2024). Gender and Development Sectoral Agenda 2024-2028.
Manila, Philippines: Department of Health
FOREWORD
The Philippine health sector stands tall in its commitment
to foster a gender-responsive system that embraces
inclusivity, irrespective of age, sex, gender identity, or
disability. This commitment is bolstered by legislative
advancements in gender equality and women’s
empowerment such as the 2009 Magna Carta of Women
and the 2019 Universal Health Care Act.

The Department of Health is committed to establishing a

gender-responsive health system under my leadership.
Our medium-term strategic document, the Gender and
Development (GAD) Sectoral Agenda 2024-2028, as
aligned with our 8-Point Action Agenda, identifies key
gender issues and actionable recommendations, to pave
the way for a more inclusive health landscape.

Our country has made significant progress in this endeavor, being recognized as the
most gender-equal country in Asia in the 2023 World Economic Forum’s Global Gender
Gap Index report and ranking 16th globally for gender parity. This acknowledges that
sustained efforts are required to achieve true gender equality.

Central to our agenda is the Department’s commitment to ensure equitable access to

quality healthcare for all Filipinos, regardless of sexual orientation, gender identity and
expression, and sex characteristics (SOGIESC). We aim to translate the vision of
Universal Health Care into a tangible reality for every individual, reflecting our
commitment to safeguarding the health and well-being of every Filipino.

Let us persist in our endeavors with steadfast determination. May our collective voices
resonate loudly, ensuring that every individual is heard; dahil sa Bagong Pilipinas, bawat
buhay mahalaga.

Department of Health
GENDER AND DEVELOPMENT SECTORAL AGENDA 2024-2028 2
PREFACE
It is with great pleasure that I present the first Gender
and Development (GAD) Sectoral Agenda 2024-2028 of
the Philippine health sector, a significant milestone in
achieving a resilient and inclusive healthcare system that
addresses the diverse health needs of every Filipino.

The GAD Sectoral Agenda 2024-2028, aligning with the

National Objectives for Health 2023-2028, serves as a
framework guiding strategic interventions and
organizational mechanisms to ensure a gender-
responsive and people-centered health sector.

The collaborative efforts and unwavering commitments of

numerous stakeholders and partners have been
indispensable in the development of this publication in our pursuit of an inclusive
and gender-equitable health system.

I, thus, extend my heartfelt appreciation to all individuals and organizations whose input
has been invaluable in crafting the GAD Sectoral Agenda 2024-2028. Your expertise,
dedication, and advocacy have been pivotal in creating this comprehensive roadmap
towards a people-centered health system. Together, we can work towards a future where
all Filipino people, regardless of sexual orientation, gender identity and expression, and
sex characteristics (SOGIESC), enjoy equitable access to high-quality, accessible, and
gender-responsive healthcare services.

Let us continue working together towards a nation where no one is left behind dahil sa
Bagong Pilipinas, bawat buhay mahalaga.

Department of Health
GENDER AND DEVELOPMENT SECTORAL AGENDA 2024-2028 3
ACKNOWLEDGEMENT
The creation of the Gender and Development (GAD) Sectoral Agenda 2024-2028 is the
culmination of extensive consultations and collaborative efforts involving various
entities, including DOH offices, national government agencies, civil society organizations
(CSOs), key populations, and development partners.

We wish to extend our deepest appreciation to the U.S. Agency for International
Development (USAID) ReachHealth Philippines, led by Laurentiu Stan, for their
invaluable support in assembling experts and consultants to assist the Department of
Health (DOH) team in crafting the initial versions of this publication. A special
acknowledgment goes to the ReachHealth team, comprising Consuelo Anonuevo, Jose
Juan Dela Rosa, Fatima Verzosa, Samantha Eala, and Gabrielle Robin Sagun, for their
technical guidance during the groundwork for the GAD Agenda.

Our heartfelt gratitude is extended to the dedicated GAD focals and advocates from
various sectors within DOH, including Central Offices, Attached Agencies, Centers for
Health Development (CHDs), DOH-retained Hospitals, and Treatment and Rehabilitation
Centers (TRCs). Their active participation in consultations, document validation, and
vetting has been invaluable. Additionally, we recognize the contributions of key
informants and organizations such as the National Council for Disability Affairs,
LoveYourself Inc., and Bahaghari Philippines during the initial stages of this document.

Lastly, we acknowledge that the production and publication of this document would not
have been achievable without the steadfast support and efforts of the UHC Policy and
Strategy Cluster (UHC-PSC), led by Undersecretary Lilibeth C. David, and the DOH Health
Policy Development and Planning Bureau, under the leadership of OIC-Director IV Lester
M. Tan. We express our gratitude to the entire team, including Eileen Diane S. Cheng-
Fernandez, Dr. Adriel R. Pizarra, Ferna Criselda S. Viesca, Jojana Christine P. General, and
Jem Bettina G. Tan. Special thanks are extended to Director Frances Rose Elgo-Mamaril
for her constant support and guidance during her tenure as HPDPB director; and Nina
Fritzie P. Bruce for her contribution to the document layout.

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GENDER AND DEVELOPMENT SECTORAL AGENDA 2024-2028 4
TABLE OF CONTENTS
LIST OF TABLES AND FIGURES 7

LIST OF ACRONYMS 8

EXECUTIVE SUMMARY 11

BACKGROUND 16

METHODOLOGY
GAD Agenda Policy Framework 19
GAD Agenda Development Process 20
GAD Agenda Templates 22

GENDER MAINSTREAMING IN THE 8-POINT ACTION AGENDA 24

Para Sa Bawat Pilipino 26

Action Agenda 1: Bawat Pilipino Ramdam ang Kalusugan 27

Action Agenda 2: Ligtas, Dekalidad, at Mapagkalingang Serbisyo

1. Maternal Health 29
2. Children and Adolescent Health, Nutrition and Immunization 30
3. Non-Communicable Diseases 31
4. HIV and AIDS 32
5. Tuberculosis 33
6. Sexual and Reproductive Health 34
7. Gender-Based Violence 35

Action Agenda 3: Teknolohiya Para Sa Mabilis na Serbisyo 36

Para Sa Bawat Komunidad 37

Action Agenda 4: Handa Sa Krisis 38

Action Agenda 5: Pag-Iwas sa Sakit

1. Health-Seeking Behaviors 39
2. Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights 40
3. Gender-Based Violence 40
4. Road Safety 41

Action Agenda 6: Ginhawa ng Isip at Damdamin 42

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GENDER AND DEVELOPMENT SECTORAL AGENDA 2024-2028 5
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Para Sa Bawat Health Worker at Institusyon 44
Action Agenda 7: Kapakanan at Karapatan ng Health Workers 45

Action Agenda 8: Proteksyon sa Anumang Pandemya 46

Governance Mechanism 47
1. GAD Strategic Framework 48

Monitoring and Evaluation Framework 50

DOH GAD Strategic Plan 54

REFERENCES 78

ANNEX A: ENABLING MANDATES AND POLICY IMPERATIVES 86

ANNEX B: LIST OF DOH POLICY ISSUANCES SUPPORTING 92

8-POINT ACTION AGENDA AND UHC

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GENDER AND DEVELOPMENT SECTORAL AGENDA 2024-2028 6
LIST OF
TABLES AND FIGURES
FIGURE 1 Summary of Select Health Outcomes (NOH 2017-2022)

FIGURE 2 GAD Agenda Policy Framework

FIGURE 3 GAD Strategic Framework Template

FIGURE 4 GAD Strategic Plan Template

FIGURE 5 GAD Agenda Strategic Framework

TABLE 1 GAD Agenda Development Process

TABLE 2 Impact Indicators

TABLE 3 Action Agenda 1: Bawat Pilipino, ramdam ang kalusugan

TABLE 4 Action Agenda 2: Ligtas, dekalidad at mapagkalingang serbisyo

TABLE 5 Action Agenda 3: Teknolohiya para sa mabilis na serbisyo

TABLE 6 Action Agenda 4: Handa sa Krisis

TABLE 7 Action Agenda 5: Pag-iwas sa sakit

TABLE 8 Action Agenda 6: Ginhawa ng isip at damdamin

TABLE 9 Action Agenda 7: Kapakanan at karapatan ng health workers

TABLE 10 Action Agenda 8: Proteksyon sa anumang pandemya

TABLE 11 Governance Mechanism

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GENDER AND DEVELOPMENT SECTORAL AGENDA 2024-2028 7
LIST OF ACRONYMS
AIDS Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome
AO Administrative Order
BHWs Barangay Health Workers
CHD Center for Health Development
CHR Commission on Human Rights
CRVS Civil Registration and Vital Statistics
CSE Comprehensive Sexuality Education
CSO Civil Society Organization
CO Central Office
DBM Department of Budget and Management
DO Department Order
DOH Department of Health
DOST Department of Science and Technology
DOTr Department of Transportation
DPCB Disease Prevention and Control Bureau
DPO Department Personnel Order
DRRM-H Disaster Risk Reduction and Management in Health
DSWD Department of Social Welfare and Development
EB Epidemiology Bureau
ENNS Expanded National Nutritional Survey
EO Executive Order
FHSIS Field Health Services Information System
FNRI Food and Nutrition Research Institute
FP Family Planning
GAD Gender and Development
GAD AR GAD Accomplishment Report
GADSF GAD Strategic Framework
GADSP GAD Strategic Plan
GBV Gender-Based Violence
GFAST GFPS Functionality Assessment Tool
GFPS GAD Focal Point System
GMEF GAD Monitoring and Evaluation Framework
GPB GAD Plan and Budget
HEMB Health Emergency Management Bureau
HFDB Health Facility Development Bureau
HHRDB Health Human Resource Development Bureau
HIV Human Immunodeficiency Virus
HPB Health Promotion Bureau
HPDPB Health Policy Development and Planning Bureau

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GENDER AND DEVELOPMENT SECTORAL AGENDA 2024-2028 8
LIST OF ACRONYMS
HPFS Health Promotion Framework Strategy
HRH Human Resources for Health
KMITS Knowledge Management Information Technology Service
LGBTQIA+ Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer, Intersex, Asexual
LGUs Local Government Units
MAIP Medical Assistance for Indigent Patients
MC Memorandum Circular
MCW Magna Carta of Women
MMR Maternal Mortality Ratio
MSM Men Who Have Sex with Men
NCDs Non-Communicable Diseases
NDHS Philippine National Demographic and Health Survey
NEDA National Economic and Development Authority
NGA National Government Agency
NHIP National Health Insurance Program
NNC National Nutrition Council
NOH National Objectives for Health
PAPs Programs, activities, and projects
PCP Primary Care Provider
PCW Philippine Commission on Women
P/CWHS Province- and City-Wide Health System
PDP Philippine Development Plan
PhilHealth Philippine Health Insurance Corporation
PLHIV People Living with HIV
PMSMD Performance Monitoring and Strategy Management Division
PNHA Philippine National Health Accounts
PSA Philippine Statistics Authority
PWDs Persons with Disabilities
PWIDs People Who Inject Drugs
PWUDs People Who Use Drugs
RA Republic Act
RHU Rural Health Units
RPRH Responsible Parenthood and Reproductive Health
SDD Sex-Disaggregated Data
SDG Sustainable Development Goal
SOGIESC Sexual Orientation, Gender Identity and Expression, Sex Characteristics
SRHR Sexual Reproductive Health and Rights
STD Sexually Transmitted Disease / Infection
TB Tuberculosis

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GENDER AND DEVELOPMENT SECTORAL AGENDA 2024-2028 9
LIST OF ACRONYMS
TRC Treatment and Rehabilitation Center
UHC Universal Health Care
UNDP United Nations Development Programme
UNFPA United Nations Population Fund
UPPI University of the Philippines Population Institute
USAID United States Agency for International Development
VAWC Violence Against Women and Children
WCPU Women and Children Protection Unit
WGH Women in Global Health
WHO World Health Organization
WWD Women with Disability
YAFSS Young Adult Fertility and Sexuality Study

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GENDER AND DEVELOPMENT SECTORAL AGENDA 2024-2028 10
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
The Department of Health’s (DOH) Gender and Development (GAD) Sectoral Agenda
2024-2028 is a medium-term strategy formulated to integrate gender mainstreaming
within the DOH’s 8-Point Action Agenda. It aims to identify and implement gender-
responsive programs, projects, and activities (PAPs) in line with the DOH's annual GAD
Plan and Budget (GPB).

Informed by a comprehensive Gender Analysis, the Agenda underscores the necessity of

recognizing the distinct experiences, roles, and needs of women, men, and gender-
diverse individuals. The analysis highlighted that when health initiatives fail to recognize
these differences, gender inequality results. To foster gender equity across these
initiatives, Gender Mainstreaming is the approach utilized to achieve equality among
women, men, and people with diverse sexual orientation, gender identity and expression,
and sex characteristics (SOGIESC). Four (4) critical entry points exist for mainstreaming
gender in Universal Health Care (UHC) and developing and implementing the GAD
Sectoral Agenda: policies, people, enabling mechanisms, and programs/projects.
.
The priority gender considerations and the findings from the analysis of gender
mainstreaming entry points serve as the basis for developing the DOH GAD Sectoral
Agenda. Together with the DOH mandates, the GAD Strategic Framework’s vision,
mission and goals, and strategic thrusts were developed based on the 8-Point Action
Agenda Statements and forward-looking medium-term strategies provided by national
and sectoral development plans.

The GAD Strategic Framework (GADSF) defines the GAD mission, vision, and goals of the
DOH. The GAD vision reflects the projected direction to achieve gender equality and
empowerment of women and other sex and gender minorities based on the DOH
priorities and thrusts. The GAD mission articulates the agency’s purpose based on its
mandate as provided by law, such as the Republic Act No. 9710 or also known as the
Magna Carta of Women (MCW) Act of 2009. The GAD goals are based on the targeted
gender outcomes and results from actions or interventions that address the priority
gender issues identified in the gender analysis. As defined by the Philippine Commission
on Women’s (PCW) Memorandum Circular 2018-04, each agency shall set GAD goals that
it can achieve over six (6) years.

The GAD Strategic Plan (GADSP) outlines the GAD goals, priority gender issues that must
be addressed, and the actions required to address them over the medium term. The
GADSP serves as the blueprint that operationalizes the GAD Agenda and serves as the
principal reference in formulating the annual GPB, which is client-focused and
organization-focused. Supporting the implementation of the Agenda, the GAD
Monitoring and Evaluation Framework (GMEF) tracks the progress and effectiveness of
GAD activities. Utilizing gender-related indicators from national sources, the GMEF
ensures a robust approach to monitoring and evaluation, facilitating informed decision-
making and strategy adjustments.

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GENDER AND DEVELOPMENT SECTORAL AGENDA 2024-2028 11
In developing the GADSP 2024-2028, a gender analysis of client-based and organization-
based issues was conducted. The client-based issues were derived from the gender
analysis of the 8-Point Action Agenda. For each action statement, the gender issues were
identified with proposed gender actions and selected PAPs to address these issues.
Similarly, the organization-based gender issues were identified from interview data and
focus group discussions (FGDs), including the national and regional consultations done in
2019, 2022, and 2023.

Below are the main highlights of the GAD Strategic Plan:

GAD GOAL 1:
Women, men, children,
adolescents, people of
diverse SOGIESC, and
people with disabilities are
accessing, demanding for,
and receiving equitable
and quality health care.

Goal 1 addresses the gender issues by the life stages and population groups pertaining
to disparities in access and quality of health services and facilities.

GAD GOAL 2:
Women, men, children,
adolescents, people of
diverse SOGIESC, and
people with disabilities are
protected through resilient
and local health systems.

Goal 2 addresses the gender issues relating to protection of life stage and population
groups who are not currently protected by existing PhilHealth benefit packages, and
strengthens the institutional services through resilient health systems.

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GENDER AND DEVELOPMENT SECTORAL AGENDA 2024-2028 12
Every identified GAD Goal is aligned and can be encompassed under specific Action
Agenda/s, which is to be shown in the GAD Strategic Plan tables in the following
sections. The Action Agendas can be categorized under three (3) main categories (DOH,
2023a):

PARA SA
BAWAT
PILIPINO
(FOR EVERY FILIPINO)

Ensuring that every Filipino achieves the highest level of health by providing safe, high-
quality, and patient-centered services, utilizing modern technology for efficient service
delivery.

BAWAT PILIPINO
1 RAMDAM ANG KALUSUGAN
Every Filipino experiences health and well-being

Healthcare access and equity

LIGTAS, DEKALIDAD AT
2 MAPAGKALINGANG SERBISYO
Safe, high-quality and people-centered health services

Maternal health
Children and Adolescent Health, Nutrition, and Immunization
Non-communicable diseases
HIV and AIDS
Tuberculosis
Sexual and Reproductive Health
Gender-based Violence

TEKNOLOHIYA PARA SA
3 MABILIS NA SERBISYO
Technology for efficient health service delivery

Sex-disaggregated data and gender databases

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GENDER AND DEVELOPMENT SECTORAL AGENDA 2024-2028 13
 PARA SA
BAWAT
KOMUNIDAD
(FOR EVERY COMMUNITY)

Empowering communities and addressing determinants of health through health

promotion, preparing them for crises, and fostering mental health and well-being,
ensuring that each community thrives in the face of challenges.

HANDA SA
4 KRISIS
Ready for health crises and emergencies

Public health emergencies and crises

5 PAG-IWAS SA
SAKIT
Disease prevention and health promotion

Health-seeking behaviors
Sexual and reproductive health and rights
Gender-based violence
Road safety

6 GINHAWA NG ISIP
AT DAMDAMIN
Mental health and overall well-being

Mental health and well-being

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GENDER AND DEVELOPMENT SECTORAL AGENDA 2024-2028 14
 PARA SA
BAWAT HEALTH
WORKER AT
INSTITUSYON
(FOR EVERY HEALTHCARE WORKER AND
INSTITUTION)

Prioritizing health care workers’ welfare and rights, and strengthening our health
institutions against the threat of pandemics.

KAPAKANAN AT KARAPATAN
7 NG HEALTH WORKERS
Advancement and protection of health workers’ rights and well-being

Human resources for health

8 PROTEKSYON SA
ANUMANG PANDEMYA
Protection against any pandemics

Pandemic preparedness in resilient health systems

Furthermore, the inclusion of a Governance Mechanism category addresses operational

ambiguities within the GFPS, enabling more effective implementation of gender
mainstreaming strategies.

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GENDER AND DEVELOPMENT SECTORAL AGENDA 2024-2028 15
BACKGROUND
The country has implemented numerous health sector reforms, including the adoption of
decentralized health governance in 1991, the introduction of PhilHealth in 1995, and the
passage of the UHC Act in 2019. The UHC Act includes comprehensive and progressive
reforms to ensure that every Filipino has access to affordable, quality, and
comprehensive health services.

Health outcomes in the Philippines have improved as a result of the mentioned sectoral
reform efforts, but not enough to meet the targets set in the National Objectives for
Health (NOH) 2017-2022. This is evident across the representative health outcome
indicators, including maternal mortality ratio, infant mortality rate, incidence of
tuberculosis, and childhood stunting (Figure 1). Furthermore, the COVID-19 pandemic
has exacerbated pre-existing gaps and weaknesses in the health sector, including
unsupportive environments for healthy behavior, inadequate structures and systems for
public health emergencies, an underdeveloped and constrained primary care system,
limited capacity of institutions in emergency response, and an underpaid, overworked,
and mentally stressed workforce.
TARGETS
67 69 70 72
Increasing
Average Life
Expectancy
72
2000-2005 2005-2010 2010-2015 2015-2020

Slow decline in
Maternal 126 121 117 114 144 90
Mortality Ratio
2012 2013 2014 2015 2020

Slow decline in
Infant Mortality
25 24 23 21 22
15
Rate
2003 2008 2013 2017 2022

Slow decline in
Tuberculosis
Incidence
554 539 650
427
2018 2020 2021

Slow decline in
33.6 30.3 33.4 28.8 26.7
stunting among 21.4
children
2011 2013 2015 2019 2021

Figure 1. Summary of Select Health Outcomes (NOH 2017-2022)

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GENDER AND DEVELOPMENT SECTORAL AGENDA 2024-2028 16
The Health Sector’s 8-Point Action Agenda defines the country's vision, policy, direction,
and strategic objectives required to accelerate health sector improvements, focusing on
the tangible outcomes for every Filipino, every community, and every healthcare worker
and health institution. To accomplish high-impact improvements in health outcomes, the
framework emphasizes community involvement in health promotion and recognizes the
vital role of healthcare workers in our health sector. This document identifies key
strategic objectives in alignment with the Philippine Development Plan 2023-2028,
building on the accomplishments of past health sector strategies, and outlines the
strategies to make each Action Agenda statement gender-responsive, along with
attainable goals as represented by indicators as indicated below.

GAD GOAL 1:
Women, men, children, adolescents, people of diverse
SOGIESC, and people with disabilities are accessing,
demanding for, and receiving equitable and quality
health care.
Goal 1 addresses the gender issues pertaining to disparities in access and quality of
health services and facilities. It is supported by the following targeted outcomes:

1.1 Improved health literacy and health-seeking behavior among life stage and
population groups.

1.2 Accessible and equally-distributed primary care and specialist care providers.

1.3 Ensured safe and quality health facilities and services at all levels.

1.4 Boost national and local health financing on primary healthcare.

GAD GOAL 2:
Women, men, children, adolescents, elderly, people of
diverse SOGIESC, and people with disabilities are
protected through resilient national and local health
systems.

Goal 2 addresses the gender issues relating to the expanded PhilHealth coverage for
those who are not currently covered and the strengthening of institutional services. It is
supported by the following targeted outcomes:

2.1 Quality gender-responsive health services are appropriately and fairly financed
for all life stage and population groups.

2.2 Increased capacity and efficiency of health institutions to deliver gender-

responsive primary care services.

2.3 Increased protection of all life stage and population groups from disease
outbreaks, disasters, and emergencies.

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GENDER AND DEVELOPMENT SECTORAL AGENDA 2024-2028 17
Although health service provision is essential, clinical care accounts for only around
sixteen percent (16%) of health outcomes, whereas socioeconomic factors, health
behaviors, and physical environment account for forty-seven percent (47%), thirty-four
percent (34%), and three percent (3%), respectively (Hood et al., 2016). Thus, to have a
greater impact on our health outcomes, the health sector must recognize and prioritize
factors outside of healthcare. Gender is a crucial social determinant of health that cuts
across various aspects of healthcare. Adolescents, women, and gender-diverse
individuals face significant challenges in accessing family planning, reproductive health
services, and adequate care due to several factors, including gender-based violence, low
male involvement in reproductive health, early marriage, and the lack of women and
self-identified people of diverse SOGIESC in leadership roles (PCW, 2022; WHO, 2019a).
The Preliminary Results of the 2021 Young Adult Fertility and Sexuality (YAFS) Study
presented last October 2022 highlighted the need to address gender and other drivers of
inequality in health systems to achieve universal health coverage.

While the Philippines stand as one of the most gender equal countries in the world—
ranking 16th out of the 146 countries at the 2023 World Economic Forum’s (WEF) Global
Gender Gap Index report (GGGR), Filipino women still experience gender bias even from
among women themselves (World Economic Forum, 2023). In the recent United Nations
Development Programme (UNDP) report, it was found that 99.5% of Filipinos hold biases
against women. Filipino women who held biases against their own gender in the UNDP’s
Gender Social Norms Index (GSNI) report were just an increment higher – at 99.67%,
compared to men who had biases at 99.33% (UNDP, 2023; Enriquez, 2023).

Additionally, it is important to acknowledge the health disparities experienced by

members of the lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, questioning, intersex, asexual
(LGBTQIA+) communities due to stigma, discrimination, and lack of access to
appropriate healthcare services (Hafeez et al., 2017). Despite some progress in
improving critical health indicators, gender inequality remains a persistent challenge in
the healthcare sector.

In support of the implementation of the 8-Point Action Agenda and NOH 2023-2028, and
the attainment of the UHC vision, the DOH Health Policy Development and Planning
Bureau (HPDPB), in collaboration with USAID’s ReachHealth Project, spearheaded the
development of the DOH GAD Agenda 2024-2028, a six-year medium term strategy, to
ensure a gender-responsive perspective in their implementation. The GAD Agenda was
developed based on the guidance from PCW for national government agencies (NGAs)
to support the implementation of Republic Act No. 9710 Magna Carta of Women (MCW),
and serve as the basis for the preparation of the annual GPB, that is submitted by the
DOH to the PCW and the Department of Budget and Management (DBM) to utilize the
five percent (5%) budget allocation from the total agency budget for GAD-related PAPs.

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METHODOLOGY
The development process commenced with a gender analysis, examining sex-
disaggregated data to identify disparities affecting diverse gender identities, including
women, men, adolescents, children, and people of diverse sexual orientation, gender
identity and expression, and sex characteristics (SOGIESC). This analysis aimed to
generate actionable recommendations to address identified gaps, marking the first step
in gender mainstreaming. The methodology involved collecting sex-disaggregated data,
identifying gender-specific issues, formulating a gender action plan, implementing
strategies to address these issues, employing indicators for tracking progress, and
reporting outcomes.

A participatory approach characterized the development of the GAD Agenda, ensuring

inclusive engagement. The HPDPB, supported by USAID ReachHealth consultants,
prepared the initial report draft through extensive consultations. Internally, discussions
involved DOH Central Offices (COs), Centers for Health Development (CHDs), DOH
hospitals, and Treatment and Rehabilitation Centers (TRCs). Externally, consultations
included representatives from organizations advocating for SOGIESC and persons with
disabilities (PWDs).

With the DOH's shift towards the 8-Point Action Agenda, the GAD Agenda was
strategically aligned to support its implementation. This transition ensured the
integration of gender mainstreaming within the broader UHC framework, aiming for a
gender-responsive healthcare system.

I. GAD AGENDA POLICY FRAMEWORK

In support of the above objectives, the GAD Agenda Policy Framework in Figure 2
provides an overview of the approach for developing the GAD Agenda. The process
starts with a review and analysis of 1) selected national laws relating to gender, such as
the MCW, Magna Carta of Public Health Workers, and Women in Nation Building Act,
and laws on reproductive health, maternal and children’s health and nutrition, and teen
pregnancy; 2) national and sectoral plans, including the PDP 2023-2028, NOH 2023-2028,
Philippine Plan for Gender and Development (PPGD), among others; 3) PCW circulars on
gender and development; and 4) the Philippines’ international commitments on GAD,
such as the UN Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against
Women (CEDAW), Beijing Plan for Action (BPfA), and Sustainable Development Goal # 5
(Gender Equality).

In developing the GADSF, the team also conducted document reviews of the DOH’s 8-
Point Action Agenda, NOH 2023-2028, UHC Act, Health Promotion Strategy, DOH
Administrative orders (AO) and Department orders on GAD and other AOs related to
UHC implementation, and annual reports.

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GENDER AND DEVELOPMENT SECTORAL AGENDA 2024-2028 19
The review results provided the inputs into the formulation of the GAD Agenda, which
would then serve as the basis for developing the agency’s Annual GPB, and the Annual
GAD Accomplishment Report (AR). The GPB and the GAD Agenda provide the inputs in
preparing the GAD Agenda progress and end-term reports which are used for
monitoring and evaluation, and for reporting GAD outcomes and results.

MCW, women-related
laws, PPGD 1995-2025, UN
CEDAW, BPfA, SDGs &
other international
commitments

Philippine Development GAD Agenda Annual GAD Plan &

Plan & Sectoral Plans (GADSF & GADSP) Budget

1. Term Plan on Gender

Equality & Women
Empowerment

GAD Agenda Projects & Annual GAD

End-Term Reports Accomplishment Report

MONITORING & EVALUATION

Figure 2. GAD Agenda Policy Framework

Source: PCW Memorandum Circular No. 2018-04

II. GAD AGENDA DEVELOPMENT PROCESS

The development of the GAD Agenda followed the step-by-step process prescribed
under the PCW Memorandum Circular 2018-04 (Table 1). Initially, the DOH designated
GAD Focals from DOH COs and CHDs. This was followed by capacity building through
conducting GAD orientation training for the GAD Focals that focused on the GAD
Agenda Development process. Thereafter, the gender analysis was conducted through
desk reviews, key informant interviews with 21 DOH senior management and staff from
the DOH CO, and seven focus group discussions with the CHDs and provincial DOH
offices (PDOHO). The rest of the steps were completed following the prescribed GAD
Agenda development process, except for Step 7, which requires more participatory
discussions across offices to identify programs, projects, and activities (PCW, 2018).

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GENDER AND DEVELOPMENT SECTORAL AGENDA 2024-2028 20
Table 1. GAD Agenda Development Process

STEPS ACTIVITIES

1. Identify the members of the GAD Agenda

STEP 1: Organizing the Focals.
Planning Team 2. Issue memo on the creation of the GAD Agenda
Focals Group.

1. Desk review of secondary data and primary

data collection.
STEP 2: Conducting Gender 2. Analysis of sex-disaggregated data and GAD-
Analysis related indicators.
3. Prepare the Gender Analysis report, and
validate with DOH-GFPS.

1. Develop the DOH GAD mandate, vision (desired

future), and mission (objectives).
STEP 3: Setting the Agency’s 2. Review the UHC provisions/Theory of Change.
GAD Vision and Mission 3. Develop the GAD Strategic Framework – gender
mandate of the agency (as provided by law, e.g.
MCW).

STEP 4: Formulating the GAD 1. Define 2 GAD Goals (medium-term, gender

Goals equality results)

STEP 5: Prioritizing Gender 1. Identify the associated priority gender issues

Issues and/or GAD Mandates from the gender analysis per life stage group,
per GAD goal and the domains of gender analysis.

1. Identify the GAD outcomes in response to

gender issues.
STEP 6: Developing the
2. Develop the M&E framework and plan with:
Strategic Plan per GAD goal
Indicators, baseline, end-term target , and
responsible unit

1. Identify planned programs, projects and

STEP 7: Translating the GAD
activities that support the GAD goals and
Outcomes into GAD
outcomes.
Programs, Projects, and/or
2. Incorporate the PAPs into the GAD Plan and
Activities
Budget.

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 III. GAD AGENDA TEMPLATES
The templates for the GAD Agenda as prescribed by the PCW are presented in Figures 3
and 4 for the GADSF and the GADSP that spans six years.

The GADSF contains the following data elements: DOH mandate, GAD vision, mission,
and goals, while the GADSP is designed to support the achievement of the GAD goals.
The Strategic Plan defines the priority gender issues associated with the GAD goals,
targeted outcomes and results, measured by a set of indicators with baselines, targets,
the responsible agencies and strategies to achieve the GAD outcomes or results.

GAD STRATEGIC FRAMEWORK TEMPLATE

AGENCY

MANDATE

GAD VISION

GAD MISSION

GAD GOALS

Figure 3. GAD Strategic Framework Template

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 AGENCY

GAD GOAL:

Department of Health
Gender Issue / Outcome / Result Program / Project Responsible
Outcome / Result
GAD Mandate Statement / Activity Agency

Indicator Baseline / Source Target

GENDER AND DEVELOPMENT SECTORAL AGENDA 2024-2028

23
Figure 4. GAD Strategic Plan Template
GENDER MAINSTREAMING
IN THE 8-POINT ACTION AGENDA
Gender mainstreaming is a strategy to achieve equality between women and men,
people with diverse SOGIESC, girls and boys. There are four critical entry points to GAD
mainstreaming, namely: policies, people, enabling mechanisms, and programs/projects
(PCW, 2016).

POLICIES
Policy consists of enabling laws, official statements, and policy issuances that support
gender mainstreaming (PCW, 2016). The compilation and descriptions of the policies can
be found in Annex A.

Findings from the reviews showed provisions, references and strategies that build the
strong link between GAD and the health mandates of DOH, starting with the
Philippine Constitution and the national/international laws and policies on GAD and
health-related issues (including reproductive health, GBV, early marriage, teen
pregnancy and nutrition), and forward-looking national and sectoral plans and
development strategies. These findings served as inputs for developing the DOH
GADSF and the GADSP.

PEOPLE
People are the stakeholders on whose shoulders fall the task of gender mainstreaming,
such as the GAD Focals and members of the GFPS of DOH (PCW, 2016).
PEOPLE
The Magna Carta of Women (RA 9710 of 2009) or MCW mandated the creation and
strengthening of the GFPS to catalyze and accelerate gender mainstreaming in the
Philippines. The DOH first established the GFPS in 2013 in line with the provision of
the MCW to adopt gender mainstreaming as a strategy to promote women’s human
rights and eliminate gender discrimination in government systems, structures,
policies, programs, and processes (DOH, 2013). The guidelines were revised in 2020
using DO No. 2020-0518 and members for both the GFPS Steering Committee and
GFPS Secretariat were reconstituted last 2021 under DPO No. 2021-0903.

With designated GAD Focals from the CO, CHDs, DOH hospitals, and TRCs, the GFPS
will be the primary instrument in implementing the DOH GAD Agenda and its
Strategic Plan. Strengthening the GFPS will help ensure the gender-responsiveness of

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 its primary health care programs, and guide the DOH in mainstreaming gender at
the national and local levels. At the same time, building commitment and capacity on
mainstreaming gender must not be limited to the GFPS. To ensure that the gender
strategies are sustained, there is a need to create gender awareness/sensitivity
across DOH offices, develop the capacity of regular agency staff, and involve them
in gender-related activities.

ENABLING MECHANISMS
Enabling Mechanisms refer to the systems and processes that support GAD activities,
including GAD plans and budgets, tools for the collection of sex-disaggregated data and
PEOPLE
gender information, creation of GAD databases, and institutional coordination
mechanisms (PCW, 2016).

The MCW (2009) provided the enabling mechanisms for government agencies to
ensure the mainstreaming of gender in policies and PAPs.

These mechanisms consist of planning and budgeting systems (GPB and GAD AR, as
guided by PCW-NEDA-DBM Joint Circular 2012-01 and updated by PCW MC 2022-03),
gender tools for assessing gender-responsiveness of organizations and PAPs (GMEF,
as guided by PCW MC 2016-01; and Harmonized Gender and Development Guidelines
(HGDG), as guided by PCW MC 2021-04), and GAD Databases and collection of SDD,
as guided by PCW MC 2014-05.

As the DOH GADSP is implemented, these are the same set of systems and tools that
will be used to ensure gender-responsive implementation of the 8-Point Action
Agenda.

PAPs
PAPs refer to the flagship programs which are usually the strategic entry points for
implementing GAD initiatives, such as the activities that address priority gender issues
P Egaps,
and O Pand
L E are included in the GADSP (PCW, 2016).

PAPs are the most practical gender mainstreaming entry point, because it involves
the actual implementation of the mandate of an organization. For example, under
UHC, primary care is the flagship program of DOH, with a long-term vision of an
inclusive and equitable universal health care that meets the needs of all life-stage
and population groups of children, adolescents, women, men, elderly, and LGBTQIA+
communities. This vision brings gender and development into the mainstream of UHC
implementation. To make DOH a more gender-responsive organization, gender
mainstreaming should also be applied to other flagship health programs that directly
impact life-stage and population groups.

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 PARA SA

BAWAT
PILIPINO
Ensuring that every Filipino achieves the highest level of health
by providing safe, high-quality, and patient-centered services,
utilizing modern technology for efficient service delivery.

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 1 BAWAT PILIPINO
RAMDAM ANG KALUSUGAN

Mainstream and strengthen the primary health care approach, ensuring that every
Filipino has access to comprehensive health services without experiencing financial
hardship.

This agenda item is in support of the following GAD Goals:

GAD GOAL 1.2 Accessible and equally-distributed primary care and specialist
care providers

GAD GOAL 1.4 Boost national and local health financing on primary healthcare

GAD GOAL 2.1 Quality gender-responsive health services are appropriately and
fairly financed for all life stage and population groups

GAD GOAL 2.2 Increased capacity and efficiency of health institutions to deliver
gender-responsive primary care services

HEALTHCARE ACCESS AND EQUITY

Despite the National Health Insurance Program's (NHIP) goal of universal coverage,
2022 data from the Philippine National Health Accounts shows that Filipinos pay 41.8% of
health expenditures out-of-pocket (PSA, 2023), highlighting substantial financial barriers
to healthcare access. Additionally, only 90% of the population is registered with
PhilHealth, and just 15% have registered with a PhilHealth-contracted Primary Care
Provider (PCP), indicating significant gaps in health coverage (Sarao, 2022; DOH, 2023b).

Healthcare access varies significantly across demographics, especially for women aged
15-49, where 42% report financial constraints as a primary barrier to seeking treatment,
despite 70% having some form of PhilHealth coverage (PSA & ICF, 2023). This challenge
is more acute in rural areas, where healthcare coverage and access are notably lower
than in urban counterparts (PSA & ICF, 2023). Furthermore, 16% of women in this age
group cite the distance to healthcare facilities as a barrier, with rural residents facing
greater difficulties in accessing care (PSA & ICF, 2023).

The agenda also highlights the urgent need for equitable, affordable healthcare for
families with disabilities, who face higher healthcare expenses (Carraro et al., 2022).
Legal mandates like the Magna Carta for PWDs (RA 9442) and its amendment (RA No.
11228) aim to ensure PhilHealth coverage for all persons with disabilities, yet obstacles in
obtaining disability cards and accessing benefits remain, underscoring the system's
shortcomings in supporting vulnerable groups effectively (Carraro et al., 2022).

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To address the disparities in health insurance access and equity, the following strategies
need to be delivered: integrating primary health care within communities, schools, and
workplaces to make services widely accessible; streamlining the process for Filipinos to
register with PhilHealth-contracted PCPs by facilitating the licensing and accreditation
of more health facilities and simplifying enrollment in PhilHealth; and expanding
PhilHealth benefit packages to include services that address unique gender-specific
health needs. These focused efforts are designed to achieve universal healthcare
coverage, minimize out-of-pocket health expenses, and ensure that healthcare provision
is equitable and responsive to the diverse needs of the Filipino population.

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2
LIGTAS, DEKALIDAD AT
MAPAGKALINGANG
SERBISYO
Ensure the provision of high-quality, safe, and people-centered services, which include
access to affordable medicines, across the life stages.

This agenda item is in support of the following GAD Goals:

GAD GOAL 1.2 Accessible and equally primary care and specialist care providers

GAD GOAL 1.3 Ensured safe and quality health facilities and services at all levels

GAD GOAL 1.4 Boost national and local health financing on primary healthcare

GAD GOAL 2.2 Increased capacity and efficiency of health institutions to deliver
gender-responsive primary care services

MATERNAL HEALTH
Maternal health, encompassing the reduction of maternal mortality, maternal injury, and
disability, is crucial for the health and well-being of both mothers and children (WHO,
2019b). Despite improvements, the Philippines faces challenges in maternal health
outcomes. The 2022 Field Health Service Information System (FHSIS) report showed
progress, yet a significant rise in the maternal mortality ratio (MMR) to 144 per 100,000
live births in 2020 from 108 in 2018 was noted, partially due to pandemic-related
disruptions in accessing prenatal care and facility-based deliveries (NEDA, 2023;
Marquez et al., 2020). The pandemic exacerbated disruptions in family planning and
maternal and child care services, indirectly increasing annual maternal mortality and
unintended pregnancies (Regala, 2020).

Furthermore, the 2022 Philippine National Demographic and Health Survey (NDHS)
highlighted a decrease in women receiving antenatal care from skilled health personnel
and in the number of women receiving the recommended four or more antenatal visits
(PSA & ICF, 2023). Negative experiences with staff at Rural Health Units (RHUs), such as
ineffective communication and uninviting facility environments, have driven some
mothers to opt for private providers (Cagayan et al., 2022).

To tackle these maternal health challenges, strategies include enhancing facility-based

deliveries and prenatal care, improving healthcare provider training to ensure effective
communication and patient-centered care, and focusing on maternal nutrition to combat
childhood malnutrition. Notably, addressing maternal nutrition is essential, as evidenced
by the reduction of vitamin A and iron deficiencies among pregnant and lactating
mothers (PSA & ICF, 2023). Additionally, prioritizing maternal nutrition during the first
1,000 days from conception through the first two years of life has significant long-term
impacts on education, workforce participation, and productivity of children (Save the
Children, 2015).

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CHILDREN AND ADOLESCENT HEALTH,
NUTRITION, AND IMMUNIZATION
Children and Adolescent Nutrition
In the Philippines, the rise in exclusive breastfeeding rates from 29% in 1993 to 41% in
2022 marks significant progress, yet challenges remain. Gaps in healthcare support and
societal norms that discourage breastfeeding in public spaces and workplaces persist,
affecting the overall breastfeeding rates (PSA & ICF, 2023; UN, 2016a). Additionally, the
stagnation in addressing undernutrition is concerning, with approximately one in three
children under five experiencing stunting as of 2019, signaling a need for intensified
intervention programs, especially during the critical first 1,000 days of life. This period is
essential for preventing irreversible damage to cognitive and physical development
(Mbuya et al., 2021).

The issue of malnutrition presents a double burden, with a notable percentage of

children under five suffering from stunting, wasting, and obesity. The link between
maternal anemia and malnutrition during pregnancy to increased risks of adverse health
outcomes further underscores the urgency for targeted interventions, such as iron and
folic acid supplementation and enhanced obstetric care (Smith et al., 2019; Purandare,
2012). Furthermore, the escalating trend of overweight and obesity among adolescents,
attributed to unhealthy dietary habits, calls for immediate attention (DOST-FNRI, 2019;
DOST-FNRI, 2022).

Addressing these nutritional challenges necessitates a multifaceted approach. Enhancing

support for exclusive breastfeeding through better training for healthcare workers and
changing societal norms is critical. Equally important is prioritizing nutrition intervention
programs during the first 1,000 days to prevent stunting and promote optimal
development. The implementation of comprehensive nutritional strategies, as outlined in
legislative frameworks like the First 1,000 Days Law, is key to fighting malnutrition.
Additionally, specific nutritional needs of adolescents must be addressed to reverse the
trends of overweight and obesity, promoting healthier dietary habits.

Fully Immunized Children

The Philippines faces a significant challenge in maintaining consistent immunization
rates among children. Despite a comprehensive vaccination program that includes key
vaccines like BCG, HepB, OPV/IPV, Pentavalent, PCV, and MMR, the country has
experienced fluctuations in coverage. From achieving a peak of 80% coverage in 2008,
the rate of fully immunized children aged 12–23 months decreased to 72% in 2022.
Additionally, the Philippines has recorded an increase in the proportion of unvaccinated
children in this age group, rising from 4% in 2013 to 11% in 2022, marking it as the
country with the highest count of Zero-Dose Children in the Western Pacific Region from
2019 to 2022 (PSA & ICF, 2023). This data underscores the pressing need to address the
barriers hindering effective vaccine delivery and uptake.

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Delving into the socio-cultural dynamics, it becomes evident that gender barriers and
power dynamics within households significantly impact children's access to immunization
services. Immunization, while generally viewed as gender-neutral, is influenced by
factors such as resource allocation, decision-making authority, women's mobility, and
access to health centers, often constrained by time and household responsibilities
(UNICEF ROSA, 2019). A study conducted in 2022 highlighted the complex interplay of
gendered power within Filipino households, revealing that fathers' influence, along with
other family members, including senior women like mothers-in-law, plays a crucial role in
vaccination decisions. These decisions are shaped by factors such as physical presence
during decision-making, interest in vaccination matters, and previous experiences with
caregiving or vaccination, emphasizing the need for a nuanced approach in vaccination
campaigns like the Expanded Program on Immunization (EPI). This approach should
consider that Barangay Health Workers (BHWs) primarily engage with mothers who may
lack decision-making authority, making it essential to address these gender barriers to
improve vaccination efforts (Wachinger et al., 2022).

To enhance immunization coverage and address these gender-related challenges,

several strategies are essential. First, recognizing and addressing gender barriers that
affect vaccination access is crucial. This includes implementing awareness and
education campaigns that reach both parents and influential family members,
emphasizing the critical role of vaccinations in child health. Empowering women in
household decision-making by equipping them with information and support is also vital,
as it could lead to increased vaccine uptake. Moreover, adapting public health
campaigns to effectively engage with all family members, including senior women and
fathers, can create a more supportive environment for child vaccination. Lastly,
continuously monitoring vaccination coverage and the prevalence of Zero-Dose Children
is necessary to identify trends and adapt strategies accordingly, ensuring targeted
interventions in areas with low immunization rates.

NON-COMMUNICABLE DISEASES
Non-communicable diseases (NCDs) are responsible for 74% or 41 million global deaths
annually, 31.4 million of which are in low- and middle-income countries (WHO, 2023a).
Modifiable behavioral risk factors such as tobacco use, physical inactivity, harmful
alcohol consumption, and unhealthy diets contribute to NCDs, in combination with
genetic, physiological, and environmental factors (WHO, 2023b). Men have a higher
probability of premature death from NCDs than women (WHO, 2023b), possibly
attributed to the higher use prevalence of substances by men. Globally, men consumed
nearly four times more pure alcohol per capita than women did, while the male-to-
female ratio for tobacco use prevalence is at 4.7 (WHO, 2023b).

In the Philippine context, the latest country profile from the World Health Organization
reported that NCDs cause 70% of overall deaths, 72% of deaths among women, and 68%
of deaths among men (Gorayeb, 2023). Filipino men have disproportionately higher rates
of tobacco use, alcohol consumption, and high blood pressure (WHO, 2019c). Specifically,
40% of Filipino men smoke tobacco, in stark contrast to only 5% of women. The alcohol
consumption among men is significantly higher, with an average of 11.3 liters of alcohol
consumed per capita annually — six times the average for women, which is only 1.9 liters.

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Additionally, high blood pressure affects 20% of men, slightly higher than the 18% of
women affected (WHO, 2019c). On the other hand, Filipino women face a higher risk due
to physical inactivity and obesity. The data shows that 53% of women are physically
inactive, compared to 30% of men. Furthermore, obesity is more prevalent among
women, affecting 35%, as opposed to 27% of men (WHO, 2019c).

Investing in NCD prevention and intervention policies, strategies, and plans are found to
be highly cost-effective, beneficial, and highly desirable (WHO, 2019c). Possible
intervention packages for tobacco control, harmful use of alcohol, unhealthy diets, and
physical activity include the following: creation and/or update of strategic action plans
and policies for NCD prevention and control; and integration of NCDs in primary care
benefit packages.

HIV and AIDS

Despite the global decrease in HIV cases and AIDS-related deaths, the Philippines faces
a significant and growing HIV epidemic, marked by a 411% increase in daily new HIV
diagnoses from 2012 to 2023 (Gangcuangco et al., 2023). June 2023 reported 1,518 new
HIV cases, contributing to a cumulative total of 117,946 since January 1984
(Gangcuangco et al., 2023). This rise in cases has been predominantly among men who
have sex with men (MSM), shifting from the earlier trend of heterosexual transmission
(Gangcuangco et al., 2023). Yet, transgender individuals are often not accounted for due
to the binary nature of sex data reporting, highlighting a gap in the inclusivity of
HIV/AIDS data (Gangcuangco et al., 2023).

The epidemic's growth, though modest compared to the country's population of 110
million, is significantly aggravated by stigma, socio-political challenges, and barriers to
healthcare access, particularly affecting marginalized groups. To address this, the DOH
launched the 7th AIDS Medium Term Plan in December 2022, aiming for equality-driven,
rights-based, community-led, and evidence-based HIV services. Despite these efforts,
the Philippines has become the fastest-growing HIV epidemic in the Asia-Pacific region,
with a 418% increase in annual new infections and a 538% rise in AIDS-related deaths
from 2010 to 2022. Projections suggest the number of people living with HIV (PLHIV)
could more than double by 2030, reaching 401,700 (Gangcuangco et al., 2023).

Key populations, identified for 92% of new infections in 2022, and various vulnerable
demographics face disproportionate challenges . Stigma and discrimination against
these groups hinder effective intervention efforts, with MSM representing a significant
majority of HIV cases. However, the uptake of HIV testing among key populations
remains low, exacerbated by pandemic restrictions that disrupted access to testing
services (Gangcuangco et al., 2023).

People who inject drugs (PWID) and prison populations are also at increased risk of HIV
due to risky behaviors and socio-political challenges. Women prisoners, in particular,
face heightened socio-economic disadvantages and risks of HIV infection (Simbulan et
al., 2001; Palma and Parr, 2019; Cabal, 2016). Transactional sex, influenced by patriarchal
norms and gender inequalities, further exposes individuals to STDs and HIV/AIDS risks.

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Transgender individuals, traditionally grouped under MSM, face barriers in accessing
appropriate HIV testing and healthcare services, underscoring the need for more
inclusive data reporting and healthcare provision (Regencia et al., 2022; Eustaquio et al.,
2022). Moreover, adolescents' lack of comprehensive knowledge about STIs, HIV, and
AIDS underscores the necessity for enhanced educational initiatives (UPPI, 2022).

In response to these issues, the strategy encompasses expanding testing and treatment
access to counteract the pandemic-induced disruptions in healthcare services,
enhancing educational programs to improve HIV transmission and prevention
understanding, and fostering a reduction in stigma and discrimination. It calls for
inclusive data collection practices to accurately capture the epidemic's impact on all
demographics, including transgender individuals. Legal and policy reforms are needed
to ensure healthcare access without discrimination and to address criminalization issues
that affect PWID and hinder public health responses. Community-led interventions and
harm reduction programs for PWID, including safe needle exchanges and substance use
disorder treatments, are essential components. By adopting these strategies, the
Philippines aims to stem the tide of its rapidly growing HIV epidemic, ensuring a
comprehensive and inclusive approach to safeguarding public health.

TUBERCULOSIS
In the context of National TB Programs (NTPs), it's evident that gender dynamics
significantly influence access to TB diagnostic and treatment services. Studies have
shown that in many countries, including the Philippines, men and women encounter
different barriers due to cultural norms, gender roles, and economic constraints
(Mendoza-Hisey et al., 2023). The Philippines, identified as a high TB burden country and
ranking as the fourth major contributor to global TB cases in 2021, presents a stark
gender disparity in TB incidence, with men being disproportionately affected compared
to women (Mendoza-Hisey et al., 2023). This discrepancy is not just a matter of biology
but is deeply rooted in cultural norms that dictate gendered roles, such as men being the
primary earners, which often leads to neglecting health in favor of work. On the other
hand, women, despite theoretically having more opportunities to seek healthcare, face
limitations due to economic dependence and gendered responsibilities that restrict their
access to health facilities (Mendoza-Hisey et al., 2023).

Further complicating the issue, the "macho" image prevalent in Filipino culture
discourages men from seeking healthcare, perpetuating a cycle of untreated TB due to
reluctance to appear vulnerable or admit to illness. This scenario underscores the
necessity for TB programs to address the unique challenges faced by transgender and
gender-diverse individuals, who are often overlooked in binary health strategies
(Mendoza-Hisey et al., 2023). Current policies, including the TB Law (Republic Act No.
10767), PhilSTEP1, and the Filipino Manual of Procedures (MOP), provide guidance for TB
management but only briefly touch upon gender issues, indicating a gap in addressing
TB through a gender-sensitive lens.

To bridge these gaps, strategies must include collaborative messaging by government

agencies and the private sector to challenge traditional gender norms and disseminate
TB information (Mendoza-Hisey et al., 2023). Training healthcare staff to understand the

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impact of gender dynamics on health service accessibility is crucial, as is reaching out to
communities through Barangay health workers to encourage proactive health-seeking
behavior across all genders (Mendoza-Hisey et al., 2023). Additionally, adapting clinic
schedules to accommodate the work hours of occupations predominantly held by men
and including activities in national TB strategic plans that directly address gendered
barriers can significantly improve access to TB care (Mendoza-Hisey et al., 2023).
Emphasizing the importance of early diagnosis and treatment, especially to men, and
incorporating considerations of gendered power dynamics in health decisions are steps
towards changing the norms that currently hinder effective TB management (Mendoza-
Hisey et al., 2023). By adopting these comprehensive approaches, the Philippines can
make significant strides in combating TB with a gender-sensitive strategy that
acknowledges and addresses the diverse needs and barriers faced by its population.

SEXUAL AND REPRODUCTIVE HEALTH

Despite the presence of laws, policies, and programs on sexual and reproductive health
in the Philippines, such as the UHC Act of 2019 and Executive Order 12, Filipinos still face
difficulties in advancing their sexual and reproductive health and rights. The challenges
to the full implementation of the RPRH Act were exacerbated by the COVID-19
pandemic, with access to SRH information and services severely impacted (Center for
Reproductive Rights, 2022). Among the issues was the reassignment of staff and
facilities dedicated to SRHR to prioritize COVID-19 responses and restricted access to
family planning and contraception due to shorter operating hours and limited
transportation options (Center for Reproductive Rights, 2022).

While the Comprehensive Sexuality Education (CSE) of the Department of Education

teaches about condoms and contraception to reduce the risk of unintended pregnancy
and of infection with STDs, it also teaches about abstinence as the best method for
avoiding STDs and unintended pregnancy (DOH, 2017). However, recent trends show that
more adolescents are engaging in sexual activity, with 14.7% of teenage girls aged 15-19
reported ever having sex, from just 9.1% in 1993 (Melgar et al., 2018), rising to 27% in 2021
(UPPI, 2022). While modern contraceptive use for this age group also rose, the
prevalence rate is still low compared to the proportion of adolescents already having
sex, making adolescents particularly at risk for adverse consequences such as
unintended pregnancies, abortion, childbirth and untreated STIs because they have less
access to contraceptive services (Melgar et al., 2018).

In addition to the youth population, evidence suggests women with disability (WWD)
have greater unmet health needs, particularly in SRH, due to barriers in accessing
screening, prevention and care services (Lee et al., 2015). The restricted economic
participation of WWDs, compounded by a lack of locally available services and costly,
inaccessible transport, reduces their ability to access health services. Service providers
also lack appropriate equipment and training on providing SRH services for women with
disability (Lee et al., 2015).

To overcome these challenges, effective strategies to remove obstacles to contraception

among marginalized groups entail several key initiatives: establishment of more
aaa

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cost-effective, easily accessible, and youth-friendly clinics; integration of contraceptive
services with other RH services; and incorporation of adolescents and women with
disabilities into PhilHealth benefits packages for SRH (Finer and Hussain, 2013).
Furthermore, it's imperative to provide SRH service providers with comprehensive
training in delivering care that is sensitive to gender and disability issues. This training
should equip them with knowledge about available resources and how to facilitate
access to them. Moreover, the recent positive shift in attitudes towards involving men in
family planning also provides an opportunity to develop evidence-based approaches
that improve the integration of men into FP services by addressing care delivery from a
family-focused perspective as men’s participation in comprehensive FP services is
crucial to ensuring successful FP programs that promote women’s empowerment and
positive outcomes in reproductive health (Lantiere et al., 2022).

GENDER-BASED VIOLENCE
The 2022 NDHS reveals that 13% of women aged 15–49 have experienced physical
violence since age 15, and 4% have encountered sexual violence, with 2% of these
incidents perpetrated by someone other than a husband or intimate partner (PSA & ICF,
2023). Alarmingly, 42% of women who have experienced intimate partner physical or
sexual violence in the past year sustained injuries, underscoring the severe physical toll
of GBV (PSA & ICF, 2023).

Despite these harrowing experiences, only 34% of women who have suffered from
physical or sexual violence have sought help to stop the violence, indicating significant
barriers to accessing support and justice for survivors such as limited resources,
inaccessible or unavailable facilities, restricted mobility and transportation, or refusal by
responders to assist victim-survivors due to fear of liability (PSA & ICF, 2023; Santos,
2009; Berse et al., 2021). KIIs and stakeholder consultations also highlighted the
inconsistencies among WCPUs in terms of staff knowledge and skill training, client
inclusion and exclusion criteria, among others.

In order to address these barriers, strategies include the establishment of more

functional WCPUs, training of WCPU staff on the recognition, handling, and referral of
victim-survivors, and the creation of a PhilHealth benefits package for GBV. It is also
vital to consider and include people with diverse SOGIESC in discussions on gender-
based violence.

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3 TEKNOLOHIYA PARA SA
MABILIS NA SERBISYO
Leverage digital health and technology for efficient and accessible health service
delivery.

This agenda item is in support of the following GAD Goal:

GAD GOAL 2.2 Increased capacity and efficiency of health institutions to deliver
gender-responsive primary care services

SEX-DISAGGREGATED DATA AND GENDER

DATABASES
Accurate assessment and addressing of disparities in health-seeking behaviors and
healthcare access across demographic groups necessitate the collection and analysis of
sex-disaggregated and gender-specific data. This involves distinguishing data by sex
(male or female) and gender, including gender-diverse and intersex populations, to
ensure comprehensive and well-maintained records (Morgan et al., 2016). The absence of
sex and gender differentiation in data collection can obscure the specific needs and
experiences of various groups, such as the overlooked higher prevalence of certain
conditions among men due to societal norms (UN, 2016b).

Key Informant Interviews (KIIs) and consultations have identified significant gaps in
collecting Sex-Disaggregated Data (SDD) and Gender-Disaggregated Data (GDD),
impeding the development of gender databases crucial for monitoring and evaluating
gender-specific health outcomes. The lack of explicit GAD indicators in relation to
General Program of Work (GPW) and GAD Annual Reports complicates the assessment
of the gender-responsiveness of Programs, Activities, and Projects (PAPs) and the
integration of GAD into strategic planning and policy formulation. This underscores the
necessity of establishing a robust monitoring system to track budget allocations and
GAD outcomes in GPW, alongside a comprehensive database to facilitate evidence-
based gender mainstreaming efforts and the inclusion of GAD indicators in the agency’s
Strategic Performance Management System (SPMS).

To bridge these gaps, it is crucial to ensure that all personal data, statistics, and
indicators are appropriately disaggregated by sex and gender and consolidated into a
gender database. This database will play a pivotal role in the analysis and application of
data in gender-responsive planning and decision-making. Health institutions must be
equipped to develop gender databases, utilizing Electronic Medical Records (EMR) as a
primary data source to capture vital information about different life stages and
population groups. Furthermore, members of the GFPS and GAD focals should receive
specialized training to enhance their skills in gender analysis, including the effective
collection and analysis of SDD and GDD in the design, implementation, monitoring, and
evaluation of health initiatives.

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GENDER AND DEVELOPMENT SECTORAL AGENDA 2024-2028 36
 PARA SA

BAWAT
KOMUNIDAD
Empowering communities and addressing determinants of
health through health promotion, preparing them for crises, and
fostering mental health and well-being, ensuring that each
community thrives in the face of challenges

Department of Health
GENDER AND DEVELOPMENT SECTORAL AGENDA 2024-2028 37
4 HANDA SA
KRISIS
Ensure a responsive and resilient health system and communities that can effectively
prevent, prepare for, respond to and recover from public health emergencies and crises

This agenda item is in support of the following GAD Goal:

GAD GOAL 2.3 Increased protection of all life stage and population groups from
disease outbreaks, disasters, and emergencies

PUBLIC HEALTH EMERGENCIES AND CRISES

During emergencies, gender-based vulnerabilities intensify significantly. For instance,
studies from Aklan and Leyte in 2018 revealed an increase in gender-based violence
(GBV) following disasters, with women and girls facing heightened risks of sexual abuse,
exploitation, and domestic violence due to inadequate facilities and security measures in
evacuation centers (Bhalla, 2018). The COVID-19 lockdown further exacerbated these
risks, leading to a 260% increase in reports of online sexual abuse and exploitation,
including instances where parents were the perpetrators (France-Presse, 2020). Post-
Typhoon Yolanda, communities reported increased risks of child abuse and sexual
violence, highlighting the chaos and scarcity that contribute to these issues (PSA, 2014).

Women's access to resources during disasters is likewise notably limited compared to

men's, affected by societal norms that place women in a position of greater vulnerability
during crises. Cultural norms that view women primarily as victims rather than as crucial
actors in disaster response contribute to their exclusion from decision-making processes
and risk reduction activities (Amaratunga, 2022).

To address these challenges, strategies include the establishment of WCPUs within

healthcare facilities to offer specialized support to GBV victims. Moreover, the
development of GAD practitioners and trainers in health is essential for enhancing the
capacity of health institutions to deliver gender-responsive and culturally sensitive care.
This approach involves training healthcare workers in GBV awareness and survivor-
centered service provision, aiming to strengthen the local GBV response infrastructure.
Additionally, ensuring access to essential resources and challenging cultural norms that
amplify women's vulnerability in crisis situations is pivotal. This includes implementing
gender-sensitive disaster preparedness and recovery measures and recognizing
women's significant roles in disaster resilience.

Through these strategies, this agenda endeavors to create a more inclusive and
equitable approach to crisis preparedness and response. It seeks to ensure the
empowerment and protection of all individuals, particularly women and girls, during
public health emergencies and crises.

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GENDER AND DEVELOPMENT SECTORAL AGENDA 2024-2028 38
5 PAG-IWAS
SA SAKIT
Address determinants of health and improve healthy behaviors through the promotion of
health-enabling settings, implementation of healthy public policies, and enhancement of
health literacy

This agenda item is in support of the following GAD Goal:

GAD GOAL 1.1 Improved health literacy and health-seeking behavior among life
stage and population groups

HEALTH-SEEKING BEHAVIORS
Health seeking behavior is any activity undertaken by individuals to access consultation
and health services to promote one’s health, as well as prevent and treat any illness. In
the Philippine Development Plan 2023-2028, it was recorded that targeted communities,
schools, and workplaces recognized as Healthy Settings are yet to be determined but are
targeted to increase to 60% by 2028. In 2021, 35% of Filipinos with sufficient or excellent
comprehensive health literacy are targeted to increase to 69% by 2028 (DOH, 2023b).

The COVID-19 pandemic has notably shifted the landscape of health-seeking behaviors
in the Philippines. Reports from CHDs highlighted a marked hesitancy among individuals
to seek in-person medical advice or hospital visits, driven by fears of exposure to the
virus. This period of uncertainty, however, did not diminish the public's awareness of
health issues. The NDHS-PSA 2022 report points to a widespread understanding of
chronic and infectious diseases. Over 96% of Filipinos are aware of cancer, though a
surprisingly small fraction has participated in screenings—only 3.7% of males and 5.3% of
females (PSA & ICF, 2023).

Similarly, the awareness on tuberculosis is high, with 97% familiarity (PSA & ICF, 2023).
Despite this knowledge, the response to seeking treatment or consultations for
tuberculosis remains limited, with an average engagement of only 43.5% (PSA & ICF,
2023). This gap underscores the significant barriers of stigma and lack of social trust that
deter individuals from pursuing health services, particularly for stigmatized conditions
such as tuberculosis, HIV/AIDS, and COVID-19 (PSA & ICF, 2023). The challenge also
extends to screenings for breast and cervical cancer among women aged 15-49, where
rates are alarmingly low at 10% and 9%, respectively (PSA & ICF, 2023).

Thus, it becomes evident that enhancing health-seeking behaviors in the Philippines

requires a multifaceted approach. This strategy must not only increase awareness and
access to healthcare services but also address the underlying societal and psychological
barriers that inhibit individuals from seeking care. Through targeted interventions,
improved health literacy, and efforts to dismantle stigmas, the Philippines can make
significant strides toward achieving its desire for a healthier, more informed population.

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GENDER AND DEVELOPMENT SECTORAL AGENDA 2024-2028 39
SEXUAL AND REPRODUCTIVE HEALTH AND
RIGHTS
The UNFPA's 2022 State of World Population Report highlighted the critical issue of
unintended pregnancies, defining them as those occurring sooner than desired or when
no further children were planned. In the Philippines, this issue is particularly alarming,
with statistics indicating high rates of teenage pregnancies, intimate-partner violence,
and unintended pregnancies among women aged 15 to 49.

Furthermore, the 2022 NDHS revealed a significant gap between desired and actual
number of children, pointing to the urgent need for more inclusive sexual and
reproductive health and family planning (SRH and FP) services (PSA & ICF, 2023).
Despite progress in reducing the total fertility rate, challenges persist, including a
predominance of women-centric SRH and FP services that overlook the critical role of
men's involvement and shared responsibility in family planning (Lantiere et al, 2022). The
National Family Planning Program's objectives to increase the use of modern
contraceptives among women and decrease the unmet need for modern FP are hindered
by barriers such as gaps in health literacy, religious beliefs, and societal norms that
restrict access to care and contraception (Grimes et al, 2022).

Addressing the challenges in SRHR in the Philippines requires a comprehensive strategy.

This includes fortifying evidence-based comprehensive sexuality education that
incorporates human rights and gender equality, improving access to information to
enable individuals to make informed SRHR choices, enhancing awareness to prevent and
address sexual violence from a rights-based perspective, and advocating for education
on contraception, safe abortion care, and STI/HIV prevention. It also entails upgrading
caregiver and parenting skills to positively impact adolescents' sexual and reproductive
health behaviors. By focusing on creating supportive environments and developing
personal skills, this approach aims to confront the underlying causes of SRHR issues and
cultivate a society where everyone can access the necessary resources and knowledge
for making healthy and informed sexual and reproductive decisions.

GENDER-BASED VIOLENCE
Historically, only data on intimate partner violence experienced by ever-married women
has been collected but the adaptation of the NDHS questionnaire to more
comprehensively capture intimate partner violence, including among never-married
women, has provided a broader understanding of GBV's impact (PSA & ICF, 2023). This
expansion in scope is crucial in addressing the persistent challenges GBV presents,
particularly highlighted during the pandemic when movement restrictions and lockdowns
likely reduced reporting, obscuring the true extent of GBV (Berse et al., 2021). While a
majority of women ages 15-49 are aware of available assistance from the Barangay
VAW Desk (88%), DSWD Regional Center for Women or Girls (87%), and the PNP WCP
Desk (85%), only 34% of women sought help (PSA & ICF, 2023). In addition to barriers in
access, few women seek help because of cultural gender norms wherein women are
expected to be submissive and self-sacrificing for the sake of family; and defiance of
gender norms can result in shame, guilt, discrimination, and harassment (Valdez et al.,
2022).

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GENDER AND DEVELOPMENT SECTORAL AGENDA 2024-2028 40
Moreover, the surge in online gender-based violence during the pandemic, indicated by
increased searches related to violence against women and help-seeking behaviors,
reflects the exacerbated vulnerabilities among economically insecure women (Berse et
al., 2021). The absence of comprehensive legal protections, such as the SOGIESC Equality
Bill, leaves LGBTQIA+ Filipinos particularly vulnerable to GBV (Maguddayao, 2019; CHR,
2023).

In response to these issues, strategies include enhancing health literacy with focused
campaigns, particularly in digital spaces, and bolstering GBV reporting mechanisms can
support victims and reduce incidents of violence. Collaborative efforts among NGAs,
LGUs, and international organizations are crucial for fostering safer, more informed, and
supportive environments for all Filipinos, particularly those most at risk of GBV. These
strategies aim not only to address the immediate impacts of GBV but also to tackle its
root causes, ensuring a holistic and sustainable reduction in gender-based violence and
its effects on public health.

ROAD SAFETY
The Philippines has seen a worrying rise in road traffic fatalities, with a 39% increase
from 7,938 in 2011 to 11,096 in 2021, where males accounted for 84% of these deaths,
indicating a significant gender disparity in road traffic impacts (DOTr, 2023). This trend
places road traffic injuries as a leading cause of mortality among young Filipino children
aged 5-14 years, with motorcyclists, pedestrians, and bicyclists identified as particularly
vulnerable groups (DOTr, 2023). Online national Electronic Injury Surveillance System
(ONEISS) analysis reveals that a vast majority of road traffic injury victims are men,
often intoxicated at the accident time, reflecting the gendered nature of transportation
and its differing effects on men and women's injury trends and recovery outcomes (Lu,
Herbosa, and Lu, 2021).

Furthermore, societal roles and economic factors influence women's likelihood of being
involved in road accidents (Lu and Lu, 2022). Employment status, for instance, has a
notable impact, with a significant number of women not in the workforce and thus,
potentially more exposed to road traffic injuries as pedestrians or passengers due to
their reliance on public transportation, attributed to lower income levels compared to
men (Lu and Lu, 2022). This reliance is intensified by the inadequate pedestrian
infrastructure in urban areas like Manila, where unsafe walkways contribute to
pedestrian vulnerabilities (Leather et al., 2011; Debnath et al., 2021).

To effectively tackle gender disparities in road safety and promote public health, the
strategy involves development of healthy public policies through the implementation of
an integrated Safe System Approach. This approach will be anchored in key
components, including speed management, leadership in road safety, infrastructure
design and improvement, adherence to vehicle safety standards, strict enforcement of
traffic laws, and ensuring survival post-crash. By prioritizing these elements, the
approach aims to create a comprehensive and cohesive framework that addresses the
multifaceted aspects of road safety. Such policies would not only mitigate the risks
associated with road traffic injuries and fatalities but also foster a safer and more
inclusive environment for all road users.

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GENDER AND DEVELOPMENT SECTORAL AGENDA 2024-2028 41
6 GINHAWA NG
ISIP AT DAMDAMIN
Enhance Filipinos’ well-being and ensure quality mental health services

This agenda item is in support of the following GAD Goal:

GAD GOAL 1.3 Ensured safe and quality health facilities and services at all levels

MENTAL HEALTH AND WELL-BEING

The COVID-19 pandemic has significantly exacerbated mental health issues globally,
with the World Health Organization estimating that mental and behavioral disorders
account for 14% of the global disease burden (DOH, 2020). In the Philippines, a WHO
Special Initiative for Mental Health in 2020 identified that at least 3.6 million Filipinos
suffer from mental, neurological, and substance use disorders, with actual figures likely
higher due to the survey's scope limitations (Crisostomo, 2020; DOH, 2020). Further, the
DOH study revealed that one in three COVID-19 patients developed a mental health
condition within six months of infection (URC, 2021).

Mental health challenges span across all life stages, with younger individuals aged 16 to
35 exhibiting higher symptoms of depression, anxiety, and stress compared to older
groups (Hechanova et al., 2022). The 2021 YAFS Study highlighted concerning rates of
suicide ideation and attempts among Filipino youth, with disparities between female and
male youths (UPPI, 2022). Sexual minority youths face even greater mental health
challenges, with higher rates of suicide ideation and attempts compared to their
heterosexual counterparts (Alibudbud, 2023a; Manalastas, 2013; Manalastas, 2016).
Discrimination and negative attitudes towards LGBTQIA+ community members further
exacerbate these issues, contributing to higher instances of depression, anxiety, and
stress (Alibudbud, 2023b). Further, the persistence of childhood mental and
developmental disorders into adulthood underscores the necessity of early identification
and intervention (Malolos et al., 2021).

Addressing these multifaceted issues necessitates strategies that integrate gender

mainstreaming to cater to the mental health needs of the Filipino people. This includes
building capacities for mental health across communities, schools, and workplaces to
foster environments supportive of mental well-being, ensuring that gender
considerations inform the development and implementation of mental health initiatives.
Innovative delivery models are crucial for bringing information and services closer to
people, particularly those in hard-to-reach areas, tailoring approaches to different
gender and age groups for maximum impact. Health facilities must integrate gender
considerations, offering services that are sensitive to the unique mental health concerns
of men, women, and sexual and gender minorities. The development of community-
centric, evidence-based treatment protocols will ensure that interventions are both
scientifically grounded and culturally relevant.

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GENDER AND DEVELOPMENT SECTORAL AGENDA 2024-2028 42
Finally, enhancing the accessibility of outpatient services is key to providing flexible,
gender-sensitive care options, facilitating continued support and treatment for those in
need.

By implementing these strategies, the Philippines commits to a gender-inclusive

approach in mental health care, aiming to reduce the prevalence of mental health issues,
mitigate the impact of substance abuse, and lessen the vulnerability of individuals and
communities to mental health challenges. These strategies underscore the importance of
early identification, intervention, and the promotion of mental well-being, aligning with
the country's pledge under the recently enacted Mental Health Act to respond effectively
to the gendered needs of those with mental health concerns.

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GENDER AND DEVELOPMENT SECTORAL AGENDA 2024-2028 43
 PARA SA

BAWAT HEALTH
WORKER AT
INSTITUSYON
Prioritizing health care workers’ welfare and rights, and
strengthening our health institutions against the threat of
pandemics

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GENDER AND DEVELOPMENT SECTORAL AGENDA 2024-2028 44
7
KAPAKANAN AT
KARAPATAN NG
HEALTH WORKERS
Ensure an adequate, competent, and committed health workforce by providing fair
compensation, decent work conditions, and opportunities for career development
aligned with the National Human Resources for Health Master Plan 2020-2040

This agenda item is in support of the following GAD Goal:

GAD GOAL 2.2 Increased capacity and efficiency of health institutions to deliver
gender-responsive primary care services

HUMAN RESOURCES FOR HEALTH

The health sector has long been dominated by women, who represent 70% of health
workers worldwide and 62% in the Philippines. Yet, they face stark inequities:
underrepresentation in leadership roles, wage disparities, and a high prevalence of
workplace sexual harassment and violence (WGH, 2022, 2023; DOLE-ILS, 2022). These
challenges have been intensified during the pandemic, placing an undue burden on
women in healthcare, further stressing the urgent need for targeted interventions (WGH,
2022).

The pandemic has not only increased the workload on healthcare workers but also
highlighted the critical vulnerabilities within the system, such as shortages of PPEs and
elevated stress levels, leading to increased burnout among healthcare professionals
(Elmaco, 2022). This situation is compounded by the fact that, despite women's
substantial representation in the healthcare workforce, they are often paid less than
their male counterparts and are marginalized in decision-making positions (WGH, 2022).
Moreover, the sector has witnessed a significant exodus of nurses, driven by untenable
working conditions and low compensation, with the Philippines seeing a notable decline
in nurse numbers due to resignation and the search for better opportunities abroad
(Alibudbud, 2022).

Addressing these issues requires a multi-faceted strategy that includes ensuring fair
compensation and safe working conditions to mitigate wage disparities and provide
essential PPE. Promoting women's career development and leadership within healthcare
is crucial for correcting gender imbalances in leadership roles. Establishing robust
mechanisms to report and address sexual harassment and violence is essential for
safeguarding healthcare workers. Additionally, the collection of sex-disaggregated data
is vital for developing informed policies and interventions to address these gender
inequities effectively.

By prioritizing these strategies, the aim is to foster a more equitable, safe, and
supportive healthcare environment. This approach acknowledges the indispensable role
of women in healthcare and the necessity of systemic changes to ensure their protection,
fair compensation, and opportunities for professional growth, ultimately leading to a
more resilient and motivated workforce capable of delivering quality care.

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GENDER AND DEVELOPMENT SECTORAL AGENDA 2024-2028 45
8 PROTEKSYON SA
ANUMANG PANDEMYA
Strengthen health systems and structures to prevent, manage, and recover from disease
outbreaks and potential pandemics

This agenda item is in support of the following GAD Goal:

GAD GOAL 2.3 Increased protection of all life stage and population groups from
disease outbreaks, disasters, and emergencies

PANDEMIC PREPAREDNESS IN RESILIENT

HEALTH SYSTEMS
The pandemic has intensified pre-existing gender disparities, spotlighting the unique
challenges faced by women and girls in areas such as health, unpaid care work, gender-
based violence, and accessibility to services. Reports from the United Nations
Department of Economic and Social Affairs and United Nations Women in June 2020
have illustrated the heightened risks posed to women and girls during the pandemic.
Lockdown measures significantly escalated the dangers for those in abusive settings,
with domestic violence cases increasing by 30% in certain regions. In the Philippines, the
vulnerability of women and girls to gender-based violence has been reported to exceed
the global average. Additionally, female health workers, forming the bulk of the frontline
response, encountered occupational risks. The disproportionate burden of unpaid
domestic and care work also predominantly fell on women, who spent three times as
many hours on these tasks compared to men (CHR, 2020).

Key to establishing a resilient, gender-responsive health system is the training of health

workers in providing care that is both gender-responsive and culturally sensitive,
especially targeting specific population groups and areas affected by conflicts and
disease outbreaks. The relationship between health workers' cultural competence and
patient-perceived care quality (Barral et al., 2023) highlights the necessity for such
training. Moreover, grasping the gendered implications of disease outbreaks is
fundamental. Insights from COVID-19 regarding the disparate impact on diverse life
stages and population groups underpin the strategy for crafting gender-responsive
health initiatives. DRRM-H guidelines are pivotal in ensuring that responders are well-
equipped to deliver gender-responsive health services during disasters.

By embedding gender mainstreaming into pandemic preparedness and response

strategies, the initiative seeks to safeguard all individuals' health and well-being, with a
particular focus on mitigating the vulnerabilities of women and girls. Training health
workers in gender-responsive and culturally sensitive care, coupled with a deep
understanding of the gendered effects of pandemics, positions the health system to
better manage and recover from future health crises.

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GENDER AND DEVELOPMENT SECTORAL AGENDA 2024-2028 46
GOVERNANCE
MECHANISM
In addressing gender mainstreaming within the Department of Health (DOH), several
significant issues have come to the forefront, emphasizing the challenges in effectively
integrating GAD principles. A critical issue is the insufficient prioritization of women and
people of diverse SOGIESC whose specific needs are often overlooked in GAD planning
and implementation processes. This oversight undermines the broader goal of inclusivity
and equity in health services. Additionally, the operational effectiveness of the GFPS
within the DOH is hampered by its limited functionality. This limitation manifests in PAPs
focused more on compliance with mandates rather than the proactive and dynamic
integration of gender mainstreaming in health policies and programs.

Complicating these challenges is the inadequate training and understanding of gender

issues among GFPS members. This gap in knowledge and awareness significantly
diminishes the capacity for effective gender mainstreaming, as members are ill-
equipped to integrate gender perspectives into their work or to advocate for gender-
responsive PAPs. Furthermore, the missed opportunities to improve utilization for GAD
points to a systemic issue in identifying and implementing PAPs with clear gender
dimensions. This also reflects a broader misunderstanding or neglect of the importance
of gender considerations in health programming.

To tackle these issues, a multifaceted strategic approach is necessary. The DOH's efforts
to institutionalize the GFPS and revitalize its steering committee are steps in the right
direction, aimed at embedding gender mainstreaming more deeply within the
organization's culture and operations. The introduction of a GFPS functionality
assessment tool by the PCW is another positive development, offering a mechanism to
evaluate and enhance the effectiveness of gender mainstreaming efforts. However,
beyond structural reforms, there is an urgent need for continuous education and
engagement of GFPS members. This includes comprehensive training on gender
concepts, responsive planning, and the critical importance of gender mainstreaming, to
equip members with the knowledge and skills required to drive gender-responsive
initiatives.

Moreover, ensuring the strategic involvement of GFPS members in planning and

development processes is crucial for the substantive integration of gender perspectives
across all levels of health governance. To address the issue of GAD budget
underutilization, regular updates and training on gender analysis and gender-responsive
budgeting are essential. These efforts should be complemented by the establishment of
a dedicated GAD office with corresponding personnel in the different DOH units ensuring
a sustained and focused approach to gender mainstreaming.

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GENDER AND DEVELOPMENT SECTORAL AGENDA 2024-2028 47
 VISION Filipinos are among the healthiest people in Asia by 2040.

Department of Health
Lead the country to promote gender-responsive healthy settings and people-
MISSION centered health system

CLIENT-FOCUSED ORGANIZATIONAL-FOCUSED

Women, men, children, adolescents, people of Women, men, children, adolescents, people of
diverse SOGIESC, and people with disabilities diverse SOGIESC, and people with disabilities
are accessing, demanding for, and receiving are protected through resilient and local health

GENDER AND DEVELOPMENT SECTORAL AGENDA 2024-2028

equitable and quality health care. systems.

GAD GOALDS
8-POINT ACTION AGENDA
Sa Healthy Pilipinas, Bawat Buhay Mahalaga

BAWAT PILIPINO BAWAT KOMUNIDAD BAWAT HEALTH WORKER

AT INSTITUSYON

STRATEGY

48
Figure 5. GAD Agenda Strategic Framework
In support of the DOH mandate as the overall steward and technical authority on health
and its vision for Filipinos to become among the healthiest in Asia by 2040, the DOH
mission in the GAD Strategic Framework is to lead the country in promoting and
implementing a gender-responsive people-centered health care system. This is
consistent with its mandated role as the lead agency for a) promoting the health and
well-being of every Filipino; b) preventing and controlling diseases among populations at
risk; c) protecting individuals, families and communities exposed to hazards and risks
that could affect their health; and d) treating, managing and rehabilitating individuals
affected by disease and disability (EO 102, 1999).

Additionally, as mentioned above, the GAD goals were drawn from the findings of the
gender analysis and the gender entry points to mainstream gender in the Health Sector’s
8-Point Action Agenda.

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GENDER AND DEVELOPMENT SECTORAL AGENDA 2024-2028 49
MONITORING AND
EVALUATION
FRAMEWORK
The GMEF has the following objectives:

Track the progress of implementation of GAD activities and its

1 targeted outcomes under the GAD Agenda, particularly its
component GADSP;

2 Propose the adoption of gender-related indicators to measure

results under each of the three GAD Goals ; and

Define the roles and responsibilities of the implementers of the

3 GMEF in monitoring and evaluation.

The GMEF is anchored on the GADSF, and informed by the gender analysis of the 8-Point
Action Agenda. A desk review was conducted to analyze M&E systems and mechanisms
used by various organizations, which were adopted in this report. Examples include the
Indicator Reference Sheets used by development partners that are useful and may be
used as reference tools in creating a database of indicators.

A comparative analysis of selected gender-related indicators was also conducted to

identify those that are commonly reported with available sources and reports from both
national data sources (PSA), Field Health Services Information System (FHSIS), National
Demographic and Health Survey (NDHS); and sectoral surveys such as the Expanded
National Nutrition Survey (eNNS), Philippine Action Plan for Nutrition (PPAN), Philippines
Nutrition Facts and Figures, Young Adults Fertility and Sexuality Survey (YAFS), HIV-
ART Registry (HARP); and annual report (DOH Annual Report, NOH Annual Report, RPRH
Annual Report, Health Promotion Bureau Annual Report, Philippine Development Plan,
PCW Compendium of Monitoring Indicators], and international data sources [World
Health Organization (WHO), World Bank Group (WBG), UNICEF, Save the Children,
World Economic Forum, and UNDP-Sustainable Development Goals]. In addition to
these sources, administrative data from the DOH were also analyzed, including data
from the Philippine National Police Women’s Desk on reported cases of violence against
women and children.

The targets can serve as a monitoring and evaluating tool to track the progress of these
gender indicators and measure the effectiveness of gender strategies and actions that
address gender issues or close gender gaps.

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MONITORING
INDICATORS
Tables 2-11 present health indicators and annual plan targets on selected common
gender-related and people-level indicators with baseline data, data sources, estimated
targets, and responsible units. These data can serve as the reference in tracking
progress towards targeted results and outcomes. It is important to note that some of the
data are sex disaggregated, but the majority are not, making gender analysis more
challenging.

EVALUATION
The other part of the M&E Framework is evaluation – the process of determining the
effectiveness of an intervention, initiative, program, project or activity; what works well,
what could be improved if the intervention or activity is ongoing, and what lessons have
been learned to enable mid-course correction or improve the design of programs and
interventions.

EVALUATION PLAN
Two evaluations are proposed to assess the implementation of the GAD Agenda, using
the GAD Strategic Plan as an evaluation reference point.

Annual Review
The annual review is proposed as an internal review by the DOH GAD Secretariat and
the GAD Focals of the DOH units (CO, CHDs and PHOs), DOH hospitals, and TRCs to
determine the priority gender issues that will be addressed by these offices, in line with
GADSP. Identifying the priority gender issues is the first step to the preparation of the
GPB at all levels. As mandated by PCW and audited by the COA, the annual GPB should
be based on priority gender issues that are both client-based (using the life stage
approach) and organization based.

The internal review allows the DOH GAD Focals to meet and agree on the strategies that
the DOH can implement using the five percent GAD budget, in response to the priority
issues. Operationally, the internal review is envisioned as an annual workshop among the
DOH GFPS, GAD Focals and GAD Secretariat in time with the preparation of the GPB.
The logistical needs for the workshop can be a line item budget in the GPB. The
workshop can provide an opportunity to (1) identify priority gender issues to be
addressed by the GPBs, both client and organization-based; (2) adopt gender-related
indicators to measure progress in addressing the issues, and (3) mainstream gender
across the DOH units and its flagship projects through the use of HGDG.

The internal review can also use the self-administered GAD Focal Point System
Functionality Assessment Tool to examine the performance and level of compliance with
existing guidelines and to assess functionality of the DOH GFPS. The result of the
assessment can serve as a baseline to track the performance of the GFPS.

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GENDER AND DEVELOPMENT SECTORAL AGENDA 2024-2028 51
Mid-term Review
On the third year of the implementation of the DOH Strategic Plan, the annual workshop
for the GPB preparation can include an internal mid-term review that responds to the
question of (1) what progress has been made in mainstreaming gender and in
addressing the priority gender issues that were selected in the GPB, and (2) what are the
outcomes or results of the actions taken to respond to the client-based issues, and
organization-based issues. In the mid-term review, external stakeholders from women’s
groups and other population groups could be invited to get their feedback on the
responsiveness of the strategies and actions of DOH to address issues and close gender
gaps, as well as recommend actions to improve the next three years of the GAD
Strategic Plan.

An operational approach could take the Stop-Start-Continue paradigm in evaluating

what should Stop (not working); Start (new initiatives that should be taken); and
Continue (what works well). At the organizational level, the internal review The review
may also involve the application of the GMEF to assess the level of organizational
maturity of the DOH in mainstreaming gender. The result of the midterm review is to
identify areas for improvement and for mid-course adjustments.

Final Evaluation
The final evaluation will be an internal performance evaluation by the DOH Secretariat
and GFPS Focals to be conducted at the end of the GAD Agenda for 2024-2028. The
purpose is to assess the extent the GAD goals were achieved as a result of implementing
the GADSP. The focus would be to examine the actual results vis-à-vis the end-of-period
targets, and their contribution to achieving the GAD mission/vision/goals of the DOH
GAD Agenda.

The Evaluation Plan could be guided by the main questions below.

EVALUATION QUESTIONS
For DOH GFPS and GAD Focals:
1. What are the significant accomplishments of the GADSP? How did it contribute to
meeting the vision/mission/goals of the GAD Strategic Framework?
2. To what extent have the strategies and activities in the Strategic Plan been
implemented?
3. What are the outcomes that have resulted from the implementation of these
activities?
4. What are the biggest constraints and obstacles faced in implementing the GAD
Strategic Plan?
5. What gender issues have been addressed in the various life stages and what are the
results and outcomes?
6. To what extent has the annual GAD Plan and Budget adopted and implemented the
Strategic Plan?
7. What lessons and learnings have been gained?
8. How functional is the Gender Focal Point System in DOH and its various offices and
units, following the use of the GAD Focal Point System Functionality Assessment Tool
that was developed by PCW?

Department of Health
GENDER AND DEVELOPMENT SECTORAL AGENDA 2024-2028 52
For external partners who have participated in any projects or activities under the GPB
that address client-based issues, the following questions could be asked in an FGD to
gather feedback during a mid-term evaluation. Examples of activities could include
promotion of health settings in select LGUs, gender training for BHWs, training of RHUs
on SOGIESC, mental health programs for health workers (M/F), work-life balance
programs for health providers, or CQI in social hygiene clinics and other facilities that
provides services to members of the LGBTQIA+ communities.

1. Filter: Did you participate in the [DOH activity]? Can you describe the specific
activity that you participated in?
2. What are the major problems that you faced which were addressed by the activity?
3. What benefits, if any, did you receive from your participation?
4. What are the changes that you observed or results that may be attributed to the
[DOH activity]?
5. What are some good practices that you experienced? What improvements can you
recommend?

ROLES AND RESPONSIBILITIES FOR GAD MONITORING AND EVALUATION

The conduct of monitoring and evaluation of the implementation of the GAD Agenda
using the evaluation questions should be spearheaded by the members of the GFPS and
GAD Focal Points, preferably with an external evaluator to ensure that the process is
objective and unbiased. Evaluation can be conducted annually in time with the
preparation of the GPB. It can also be an initiative with the PCW as part of their
mandate in implementing the Magna Carta of Women.

Department of Health
GENDER AND DEVELOPMENT SECTORAL AGENDA 2024-2028 53
 DOH GAD
STRATEGIC
PLAN

Department of Health
GENDER AND DEVELOPMENT SECTORAL AGENDA 2024-2028 54
 Table 2: Impact Indicators

END OF TERM
REPORTING
NO. HEALTH IMPACT INDICATORS BASELINE TARGET DATA SOURCE
UNIT
(2028)

Department of Health
BETTER HEALTH OUTCOMES

Male 70
(2020) Male 71
1 Average Life Expectancy (years) CRVS PSA
Female 76 Female 77
(2020)

Prevalence of stunting among children under five 27

2 13.5 ENNS FNRI
years of age (2021)

GENDER AND DEVELOPMENT SECTORAL AGENDA 2024-2028

Mortality Rates:

22
Infant mortality rate per 1,000 live births 11.52 NDHS PSA
(2022)

144
Maternal mortality ratio per 100,000 live births <111 CRVS PSA
3 (2020)

34 WHO Global
Tuberculosis Mortality Rate per 100,000 population 0 WHO
(2023) TB Report

Death rate due to road traffic injuries per 100,000 8

4.80 CRVS PSA

55
population (2020)
 END OF TERM
REPORTING
NO. HEALTH IMPACT INDICATORS BASELINE TARGET DATA SOURCE
UNIT
(2028)

Department of Health
Premature mortality rate attributed to non-
communicable diseases (cardiovascular disease, 5
3 3.46 CRVS PSA
cancer, diabetes, or chronic respiratory disease) per (2020)
1,000 population

STRONGER HEALTH SYSTEMS

UHC Service

GENDER AND DEVELOPMENT SECTORAL AGENDA 2024-2028

58
4 UHC Service Coverage Index 63 Coverage WHO
(2021)
Index

ACCESS TO ALL LEVELS OF CARE

Responsiveness score
(Respect for persons’ dignity, Autonomy to participate in health- UHC
93
5 related decisions, Confidentiality, Prompt attention, Adequate >93 Household DOH-PMSMD
(2019)
quality of care, Communication, Access to social support Survey
networks, Choice of health care providers)

Household out-of-pocket health spending as percent 44.7

6 28 PNHA PSA
of current health expenditure (2022)

56
 Table 3: Action Agenda 1 - Bawat Pilipino, ramdam ang kalusugan

END OF
GENDER ISSUE OUTCOME /
OUTCOME TERM PROGRAM, PROJECT, RESPONSIBLE
/ GAD OUTPUT BASELINE
STATEMENT TARGET ACTIVITY UNIT

Department of Health
MANDATE INDICATOR
(2028)

PhilHealth coverage for

mental health
conditions, maternal
healthcare, GBV cases,
Percent of Filipinos
Financial and Every Filipino rehabilitation of
registered to a PCP*
access will have access 15 PWUDs, etc.
90 DOH
disparities in to social health (2022)
Reporting Unit:
healthcare insurance. Gender-responsive
PhilHealth
Social Health Protection

GENDER AND DEVELOPMENT SECTORAL AGENDA 2024-2028

Program and medical
expense assistance
through MAIP

Note: Those with * = aligned with NOH indicators, ** = vetted by respective bureaus, ; = with SDD

57
 Table 4: Action Agenda 2 - Ligtas, dekalidad at mapagkalingang serbisyo

END OF
GENDER ISSUE OUTCOME /
OUTCOME TERM PROGRAM, PROJECT, RESPONSIBLE
/ GAD OUTPUT BASELINE
STATEMENT TARGET ACTIVITY UNIT

Department of Health
MANDATE INDICATOR
(2028)

Proportion of Delivery of nutrition

nutritionally at-risk programs and services
pregnant women; including procurement
16.4
13.2 of commodities and DOH
(2021)
Reporting Unit: better targeting for IEC
NNC campaigns on family
health and nutrition

GENDER AND DEVELOPMENT SECTORAL AGENDA 2024-2028

Rise in MMR Prevalence of
Improved
and disruptions anemia among Delivery and
nutrition levels
in accessing women of 23.0 compliance monitoring
among
essential reproductive age; (2018- 17.2 of micronutrient DOH
pregnant
maternal 2019) supplementation
women and
healthcare Reporting Unit: programs.
young girls.
services NNC

Percentage of Adherence to RA 10028

exclusively and relevant policies,
breastfed infants including availability of
60.1
less than 6 months 84.3 lactation stations in DOH
(2021)
workplaces and public
Reporting Unit: places, provision of
NNC lactation breaks, etc.

59
 Table 4: Action Agenda 2 - Ligtas, dekalidad at mapagkalingang serbisyo

END OF
GENDER ISSUE OUTCOME /
OUTCOME TERM PROGRAM, PROJECT, RESPONSIBLE
/ GAD OUTPUT BASELINE
STATEMENT TARGET ACTIVITY UNIT

Department of Health
MANDATE INDICATOR
(2028)

Efficient and inclusive

implementation of the
National Safe
Motherhood Program
(NSMP), including the
provision of maternal
health services to
In providing mothers, pregnant
holistic care, Percent of women women, and lactating

GENDER AND DEVELOPMENT SECTORAL AGENDA 2024-2028

high-quality, aged 15-49 who mothers
Rise in MMR
safe, and received antenatal
and disruptions Training of health care
affordable care from skilled
in accessing workers in the gender-
services health personnel for 86
essential 92.7 responsive provision of DOH
through the life the most recent (2022)
maternal maternal care, such as
stages should birth*;
healthcare Basic Emergency
be ensured Maternal, Obstetrics, and
services
starting from a Reporting Unit: Newborn Care (BEMONC)
mother’s PSA and Lactation
pregnancy. Management Education

Maternal death
surveillance and
response

Mother-Baby Friendly
Health Initiative

58
 Table 4: Action Agenda 2 - Ligtas, dekalidad at mapagkalingang serbisyo

END OF
GENDER ISSUE OUTCOME /
OUTCOME TERM PROGRAM, PROJECT, RESPONSIBLE
/ GAD OUTPUT BASELINE
STATEMENT TARGET ACTIVITY UNIT

Department of Health
MANDATE INDICATOR
(2028)

Prevent and
address all
forms of
diseases
Proportion of fully Expanded Programme
preventable
Low immunized children* on Immunization
through 72
immunization 95 DOH
vaccination by (2022)
rates Reporting Unit: Inclusive access to
improving
PSA immunization programs
children’s

GENDER AND DEVELOPMENT SECTORAL AGENDA 2024-2028

access to safe
immunization
programs.

By 2030, reduce
Age-standardized
by one third
prevalence of
premature
Increased current tobacco use Integrated Training on
mortality from
premature among persons Philippine Package of
NCDs through 19.5
mortality rate aged 15 years and 15% Essential Non- DOH
prevention and (2021)
attributed to older*; Communicable Diseases
treatment and
NCDs Interventions (PhilPEN)
promote mental
Reporting Unit:
health and well-
DOH-EB
being.

60
 Table 4: Action Agenda 2 - Ligtas, dekalidad at mapagkalingang serbisyo

END OF
GENDER ISSUE OUTCOME /
OUTCOME TERM PROGRAM, PROJECT, RESPONSIBLE
/ GAD OUTPUT BASELINE
STATEMENT TARGET ACTIVITY UNIT

Department of Health
MANDATE INDICATOR
(2028)

HIV/AIDS counseling
Percent of people and screening or
living with Human testing, baseline
Immunodeficiency diagnostic and
Virus (PLHIV) on laboratory tests
Rise of HIV and 62%
Antiretroviral 95% DOH
AIDS (2022)
Treatment (ART)*; Provision of
antiretroviral

GENDER AND DEVELOPMENT SECTORAL AGENDA 2024-2028

By 2030, the
Reporting Unit: medication to PLHIV
end of
DOH-EB and target key
epidemics of
populations
HIV/AIDS,
tuberculosis,
and other
communicable
diseases.

Tuberculosis Case
Notification Rate, All Conduct of consultative
forms (per 100,000 meetings with relevant
TB gender 382
population)* 523 stakeholders and key DOH
disparities (2022)
affected groups for TB
Reporting Unit: and HIV programs
DOH-DPCB

61
 Table 4: Action Agenda 2 - Ligtas, dekalidad at mapagkalingang serbisyo

END OF
GENDER ISSUE
OUTCOME OUTCOME / OUTPUT TERM PROGRAM, PROJECT, RESPONSIBLE
/ GAD BASELINE
STATEMENT INDICATOR TARGET ACTIVITY UNIT

Department of Health
MANDATE
(2028)

Modern Contraceptive
Prevalence Rate (MCPR)
disaggregated by age,
urban/rural (all women
24.3 Family Planning
of reproductive age 15- 31 DOH
(2022) Competency Based
49 years old)
Training (FPCBT) for
Reporting Unit: health care workers
DOH-DPCB
Delivery of

GENDER AND DEVELOPMENT SECTORAL AGENDA 2024-2028

comprehensive SRH
Improved Proportion of women of services, particularly to
access of reproductive age (aged those farthest behind in
Barriers in 15–49 years) who have
women and access due to their
accessing SRH their need for family
girls to 58.1 location, ability, and
services planning satisfied with 70 DOH
comprehensive (2022) age among the poor
modern methods
SRH services. and marginalized
Reporting Unit: sectors.
DOH-DPCB
Available and
accessible
Unmet need for family contraceptive methods
planning (FP) for men, including
disaggregated by
vasectomy
urban/rural DOH

Reporting Unit:
DOH-DPCB

62
 Table 4: Action Agenda 2 - Ligtas, dekalidad at mapagkalingang serbisyo

END OF
GENDER ISSUE OUTCOME /
OUTCOME TERM PROGRAM, PROJECT, RESPONSIBLE
/ GAD OUTPUT BASELINE
STATEMENT TARGET ACTIVITY UNIT

Department of Health
MANDATE INDICATOR
(2028)

Provision of assistance
in medicines,
diagnostic/ laboratory
testing and processing
of medico-legal
certificates to victims of
VAWC
Number of reported

GENDER AND DEVELOPMENT SECTORAL AGENDA 2024-2028

All Filipinos,
Challenges in abuse cases, Purchase of drugs and
regardless of Women:
accessing disaggregated by medicine to be
SOGIESC, are 12,543
healthcare age and sex seen at distributed to WCPU
protected and Children: TBD DOH
services for WCPUs clients
safe from 16,966
GBV victim-
gender-based (2021)
survivors Reporting Unit: Training of WCPU staff
violence.
DOH-DPCB and other personnel on
4Rs (Recognition,
Recording, Reporting,
and Referral)

Regular conduct of
consultative meetings
for the RIACAT-VAWC

63
Note: Those with * = aligned with NOH indicators, ** = vetted by respective bureaus, ; = with SDD
 Table 5: Action Agenda 3 - Teknolohiya para sa mabilis na serbisyo

END OF
GENDER ISSUE OUTCOME /
OUTCOME TERM PROGRAM, PROJECT, RESPONSIBLE
/ GAD OUTPUT BASELINE
STATEMENT TARGET ACTIVITY UNIT

Department of Health
MANDATE INDICATOR
(2028)

0 out of 11 GAD monitoring system

Percentage of people- 11 out of through reports (GPB
All applicable
existing health level 11 people- and GAD AR)
people-level
Gaps in Sex outcome indicators outcome level
data, statistics,
Disaggregated that are indicators outcome Creation of GAD
and indicators
Data and disaggregated by indicators database DOH
will be
Gender sex 3 out of 9
disaggregated
Databases people- 9 out of 9 Collection and
by sex and impact
Reporting Unit: level consolidation of already
gender

GENDER AND DEVELOPMENT SECTORAL AGENDA 2024-2028

DOH-HPDPB impact indicators existing sex and gender
indicators data

Note: Those with * = aligned with NOH indicators, ** = vetted by respective bureaus, ; = with SDD

64
 Table 6: Action Agenda 4 - Handa sa Krisis

END OF
GENDER ISSUE OUTCOME /
OUTCOME TERM PROGRAM, PROJECT, RESPONSIBLE
/ GAD OUTPUT BASELINE
STATEMENT TARGET ACTIVITY UNIT

Department of Health
MANDATE INDICATOR
(2028)

Procurement of basic
health commodities,
such as hygiene kits, for
Province-Wide Health
Systems during
emergencies and
disaster

Number of Disaster Provision of safe and

GENDER AND DEVELOPMENT SECTORAL AGENDA 2024-2028

Risk reduction and appropriate spaces for
Women and Management in continued breastfeeding
Gender-based children are Health Programs during emergencies
Vulnerabilities protected from that are reported to
TBD TBD DOH
Related to sexual abuse be gender- Technical assistance to
Gender Norms and responsive** LGUs and health
exploitation. partners for gender-
Reporting Unit: responsive health
DOH-HEMB service delivery and
disaster resilience at the
community level

Capacity building of
women and girls on
disaster resilience, in
addition to men and
boys

65
Note: Those with * = aligned with NOH indicators, ** = vetted by respective bureaus, ; = with SDD
 Table 6: Action Agenda 4 - Handa sa Krisis

END OF
GENDER ISSUE OUTCOME /
OUTCOME TERM PROGRAM, PROJECT, RESPONSIBLE
/ GAD OUTPUT BASELINE
STATEMENT TARGET ACTIVITY UNIT

Department of Health
MANDATE INDICATOR
(2028)

Assessment of DOH
Percent of Hospitals using Green
government Viability Rating System
hospitals recognized
as safe, green, and Provision of quality,
climate resilient 7% gender-responsive
50% curative and DOH
hospitals* (2022)
rehabilitative healthcare
Men, women, services in DOH-
managed health facilities

GENDER AND DEVELOPMENT SECTORAL AGENDA 2024-2028

and people of Reporting Unit:
diverse DOH-HFDB
Technical assistance to
Gender-based SOGIESC will
LGUs on the
Vulnerabilities have equal
institutionalization of a
Related to participation in
gender-sensitive DRRM-
Gender Norms the community’s
H system
risk reduction
and disaster Percent of LGUs
Transformation of
resilience. with evident DRRM-
gender norms that
H system for large reinforce the idea of
scale health 0 women as victims and
100%
emergencies* (2022) men as rescuers

Reporting Unit: Inclusion of women, girls,

DOH-HEMB and diverse stakeholders
in the decision-making in
disaster resilience

66
Note: Those with * = aligned with NOH indicators, ** = vetted by respective bureaus, ; = with SDD
 Table 7: Action Agenda 5 - Pag-iwas sa sakit

END OF
GENDER ISSUE OUTCOME /
OUTCOME TERM PROGRAM, PROJECT, RESPONSIBLE
/ GAD OUTPUT BASELINE
STATEMENT TARGET ACTIVITY UNIT

Department of Health
MANDATE INDICATOR
(2028)

Full implementation of
Percent of Filipinos
KonsulTayo program
with Good Health
Seeking Behavior* 79% Information, Education,
100%
(2021) and Communication (IEC)
Reporting Unit: campaigns and materials
DOH-HPB on health concerns, such
as maternal, child, and
adolescent health and
All Filipinos nutrition, NCDs, substance

GENDER AND DEVELOPMENT SECTORAL AGENDA 2024-2028

have increased use, among others
health literacy
Poor health and positive Observation and
promotion of healthy
literacy and health-seeking
Percent of Filipino habits and practices DOH
health-seeking behaviors
adults 18 years old through celebration
behavior regardless of activities
and above with
health and
sufficient or
disease Promotion of gender-
excellent 35%
concerns. 69% responsive health
comprehensive (2021) programs in healthy
health literacy*; settings, such as but not
limited to orientations on
Reporting Unit: Health Promotion
DOH-HPB Framework Strategy
(HPFS) and Health
Literacy on Knowledge,
Attitudes, and Practices
(HL-KAP)

67
 Table 7: Action Agenda 5 - Pag-iwas sa sakit

END OF
GENDER ISSUE OUTCOME /
OUTCOME TERM PROGRAM, PROJECT, RESPONSIBLE
/ GAD OUTPUT BASELINE
STATEMENT TARGET ACTIVITY UNIT

Department of Health
MANDATE INDICATOR
(2028)

Percent of healthy
settings recognized
Capacity building to
as*:
PCWHS through
Healthy
technical assistance on
Communities
N/A 60% Healthy Settings and
Healthy Workplaces
Health Promotion
Healthy Schools
Playbook
All Filipinos

GENDER AND DEVELOPMENT SECTORAL AGENDA 2024-2028

have increased Reporting Unit:
Strengthening of
health literacy DOH-HPB
interventions on the
Poor health and positive
seven Priority Areas
literacy and health-seeking
through conduct of DOH
health-seeking behaviors
consultative or
behavior regardless of
evaluation meetings
health and Percent of Filipino
disease adults 18 years old
Awareness and
concerns. and above with
transformation of
sufficient or
gender norms that
excellent 35%
69% reinforce poor health
comprehensive (2021)
outcomes for women,
health literacy*;
girls, and gender-
diverse individuals
Reporting Unit:
DOH-HPB

68
 Table 7: Action Agenda 5 - Pag-iwas sa sakit

END OF
GENDER ISSUE OUTCOME /
OUTCOME TERM PROGRAM, PROJECT, RESPONSIBLE
/ GAD OUTPUT BASELINE
STATEMENT TARGET ACTIVITY UNIT

Department of Health
MANDATE INDICATOR
(2028)

Workshop on the
Proportion of women
Comprehensive Sexuality
aged 15–49 years who
Education (CSE) and
make their own
Adolescent Reproductive
informed decisions
Health (ARH)
regarding sexual
82.3%
relations, contraceptive 90%
(2022) Training of Trainers on
use, and reproductive
adolescent health such as
health care increased*;
the Adolescent Health and
Development Program
Reporting Unit:
Manual of Operations and
DOH-DPCB

GENDER AND DEVELOPMENT SECTORAL AGENDA 2024-2028

the USAPAN Serye
All Filipinos have
access to inclusive,
Sexual and comprehensive, Modern Contraceptive
Reproductive accessible, and Prevalence Rate (MCPR)
DOH
Health and Rights affordable sexual disaggregated by age,
Challenges and reproductive urban/rural (all women
24.3 Awareness campaigns on
health and rights of reproductive age 15- 31
(2022) family planning and use of
information. 49 years old)
modern contraceptives,
including teens to prevent
Reporting Unit:
adolescent pregnancy
DOH-DPCB
Increased awareness
raising campaign on men’s
Adolescent aged 15- 19
involvement and/or
years birth rate per
participation in family
1,000 women in that
12 planning.
age group 16
(2022)
Reporting Unit:

69
DOH-DPCB
 Table 7: Action Agenda 5 - Pag-iwas sa sakit

END OF
GENDER ISSUE OUTCOME /
OUTCOME TERM PROGRAM, PROJECT, RESPONSIBLE
/ GAD OUTPUT BASELINE
STATEMENT TARGET ACTIVITY UNIT

Department of Health
MANDATE INDICATOR
(2028)

Number of reported
All Filipinos,
abuse cases,
regardless of Women:
disaggregated by Awareness campaigns on
SOGIESC, are 12,543
Gender-Based age and sex seen at GBV and VAW, such as
protected and Children: TBD DOH
Violence WCPUs the 18-day campaign to
safe from 16,966
end VAW
gender-based (2021)

GENDER AND DEVELOPMENT SECTORAL AGENDA 2024-2028

Reporting Unit:
violence.
DOH-DPCB

Note: Those with * = aligned with NOH indicators, ** = vetted by respective bureaus, ; = with SDD

70
 Table 8: Action Agenda 6 - Ginhawa ng isip at damdamin

END OF
GENDER ISSUE OUTCOME /
OUTCOME TERM PROGRAM, PROJECT, RESPONSIBLE
/ GAD OUTPUT BASELINE
STATEMENT TARGET ACTIVITY UNIT

Department of Health
MANDATE INDICATOR
(2028)

Gender responsive
psychosocial and
wellness programs,
Percent of LGUs including mental health
providing services for PWUDs
ambulatory
Prevalence of Mental health (primary) care Training of health care
mental health needs of each mental health TBD 100% workers on Basic Mental DOH
issues Filipino is met. services* Health and

GENDER AND DEVELOPMENT SECTORAL AGENDA 2024-2028

Psychosocial Support
Reporting Unit: Services (MHPSS) and
DOH-KMITS Community-Based
Mental Health Global
Action Program
(mhGAP)

Note: Those with * = aligned with NOH indicators, ** = vetted by respective bureaus, ; = with SDD

71
 Table 9: Action Agenda 7 - Kapakanan at karapatan ng health workers

END OF
GENDER ISSUE OUTCOME /
OUTCOME TERM PROGRAM, PROJECT, RESPONSIBLE
/ GAD OUTPUT BASELINE
STATEMENT TARGET ACTIVITY UNIT

Department of Health
MANDATE INDICATOR
(2028)

Deployment of Human
Healthcare
Resources for Health
workers are
(HRH) in identified
adequately and Percent of cities and
priority areas
equitably provinces with
Physician: Physician
distributed adequate Human
Protection and 3% : 72% Provision of health care
across the Resources for
compensation Nurse: 2% Nurse: services for health care
country to Health to population DOH
for health care Midwife: 72% workers, including
improve health ratio*
workers 82% Midwife: gynecological care for
service

GENDER AND DEVELOPMENT SECTORAL AGENDA 2024-2028

(2022) 100% female staff
coverage and Reporting Unit:
achieve better DOH-HHRDB
Paid maternity,
health
paternity, and solo
outcomes.
parent leaves

Note: Those with * = aligned with NOH indicators, ** = vetted by respective bureaus, ; = with SDD

72
 Table 10: Action Agenda 8 - Proteksyon sa anumang pandemya

END OF
GENDER ISSUE OUTCOME /
OUTCOME TERM PROGRAM, PROJECT, RESPONSIBLE
/ GAD OUTPUT BASELINE
STATEMENT TARGET ACTIVITY UNIT

Department of Health
MANDATE INDICATOR
(2028)

Percent of regions Disease Surveillance

Health facilities and Training/Data
and service provincial/city/muni Management Training
Gender providers are cipality LGUs with
Disparities resilient and functional 41% Establishment of
100% DOH
during equipped to epidemiology and (2020) quality, gender-
pandemic provide gender surveillance unit* responsive health

GENDER AND DEVELOPMENT SECTORAL AGENDA 2024-2028

responsive facilities and regular
services. Reporting Unit: conduct of inspections
DOH-EB and monitoring visits

Note: Those with * = aligned with NOH indicators, ** = vetted by respective bureaus, ; = with SDD

73
 Table 11: Governance Mechanism

END OF
GENDER ISSUE OUTCOME /
OUTCOME TERM PROGRAM, PROJECT, RESPONSIBLE
/ GAD OUTPUT BASELINE
STATEMENT TARGET ACTIVITY UNIT

Department of Health
MANDATE INDICATOR
(2028)

Adoption of GAD Agenda

and Strategic Framework

Integration of GAD
perspective to sectoral
plans, policies, and goals is
The GFPS is supported by top
functional and management
proactive in
Capacity building of GFPS
mainstreaming

GENDER AND DEVELOPMENT SECTORAL AGENDA 2024-2028

members to serve as GAD
gender in
resource persons
health. GMEF Level At least
3 (2014)
81 points Reflection of GAD
Unclear 3 (2017)
GFPS members Reporting Unit: or functions in the TORs of
functionality of DOH
and GAD focals DOH GFPS Steering equivalen designated staff members
the GFPS Source:
are capacitated Committee and t to level
PCW Utilization of SDD and
in gender Secretariat 4 by 2028
gender statistics to
concepts and
calibrate GAD PAPs and
tools such as
address emerging gender
GPB, issues
monitoring, and
evaluation. Equal participation of all
stakeholders in planning
and implementation of
GAD PAPs

Attribution of at least 5%

74
of GAA to GAD
 Table 11: Governance Mechanism

END OF
GENDER ISSUE OUTCOME /
OUTCOME TERM PROGRAM, PROJECT, RESPONSIBLE
/ GAD OUTPUT BASELINE
STATEMENT TARGET ACTIVITY UNIT

Department of Health
MANDATE INDICATOR
(2028)

Institutionalization of
GFPS with clear
designation of members
and their roles

The GFPS is Involvement of high level

functional and officials in the GFPS
proactive in
Designation of staff to a
mainstreaming Level of
GFPS Secretariat
gender in Functionality in the

GENDER AND DEVELOPMENT SECTORAL AGENDA 2024-2028

At least
health. GFPS Functionality Gender responsive policies
66 or
Assessment Tool and mandates issued by
Unclear equivalen
GFPS members (GFAST) No data agency head or GFPS
functionality of t to a DOH
and GAD focals yet Chair
the GFPS grade of
are capacitated Reporting Unit:
Function Regular meetings of the
in gender DOH GFPS Steering
al GFPS ExeCom with GFPS
concepts and Committee and
members and GAD focals
tools such as Secretariat
to identify priority gender
GPB, issues and how to address
monitoring, and them
evaluation.
Regular and timely
submission of GPB and
GAD AR signed by the
agency head or GFPS
Chair

75
 Table 11: Governance Mechanism

END OF
GENDER ISSUE OUTCOME /
OUTCOME TERM PROGRAM, PROJECT, RESPONSIBLE
/ GAD OUTPUT BASELINE
STATEMENT TARGET ACTIVITY UNIT

Department of Health
MANDATE INDICATOR
(2028)

Regular monitoring and

evaluation of GPB and
The GFPS is inclusion of GAD indicators
functional and in the SPMS
proactive in
Establishment of an
mainstreaming Level of
incentives system for GAD

GENDER AND DEVELOPMENT SECTORAL AGENDA 2024-2028

gender in Functionality in the
At least initiatives
health. GFPS Functionality
66 or
Assessment Tool Establishment of a GAD
Unclear equivalen
GFPS members (GFAST) No data Knowledge Management
functionality of t to a DOH
and GAD focals yet System
the GFPS grade of
are capacitated Reporting Unit:
Function Evaluation of GFPS
in gender DOH GFPS Steering
al members using the GAD
concepts and Committee and
Knowledge, Attitude and
tools such as Secretariat
Practice Survey
GPB,
monitoring, and Regular training and
evaluation. orientation of GFPS
members on GAD concepts
and tools.

76
 Table 11: Governance Mechanism

GENDER ISSUE OUTCOME / PROGRAM,

OUTCOME END OF TERM RESPONSIBLE
/ GAD OUTPUT BASELINE PROJECT,
STATEMENT TARGET (2028) UNIT
MANDATE INDICATOR ACTIVITY

Department of Health
The GFPS is
functional and
proactive in
mainstreaming
gender in
Recognition in GAD At least Bronze

GENDER AND DEVELOPMENT SECTORAL AGENDA 2024-2028

health.
related awards in the
Unclear GADtimpala
GFPS members
functionality of Reporting Unit: None Awards (at DOH
and GAD focals
the GFPS DOH GFPS Steering least 70 points
are capacitated
Committee and each in GMEF
in gender
Secretariat and GFAST)
concepts and
tools such as
GPB,
monitoring, and
evaluation.

77
Note: Those with * = aligned with NOH indicators, ** = vetted by respective bureaus, ; = with SDD
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https://docs.google.com/document/d/1PF8xSSo3urNDrSQfJBvvQG6EJyEd5944PB5f3B
SmEig/edit#heading=h.gjdgxs

Barral, N., Corpuz, A. C., Lagcao, J. A., Poblete, M.-L., Seno, R., Paler, E., & Ramel, Q. J.
(2023). Cultural Competency and Quality of Care of Nurses in a Public Hospital in
Southern Philippines. The Malaysian Journal of Nursing (MJN), 15(2), 10-20.
https://doi.org/10.31674/mjn.2023.v15i02.002

Office of the President of the Philippines. (1999). [Executive Order Nos. : 1 – 338]. Manila :
Presidential Management Staff.

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ANNEX A. ENABLING MANDATES AND POLICY IMPERATIVES

LAWS, POLICIES &

ENABLING MANDATES
STRATEGIES

NATIONAL LAWS

Article II Section 14 recognizes the role of women in

nation-building and fundamental equality before the law
of women and men. Section 15 cites the protection and
promotion of the right to health of the people and instills
health consciousness among them.
Article XIII Section 11 states the adoption of an
integrated and comprehensive approach to health
development which shall endeavor to make essential
goods, health and other social services available to all
the people at affordable cost, and giving priority to the
needs of the underprivileged, sick, elderly, disabled,
Philippine 1987 Constitution women, and children, and provide free medical care to
Article II Sections 14 and 15; paupers.
Article XIII Sections 11, 12, 14.
Section 12 sought to establish and maintain an effective
food and drug regulatory system and undertake
appropriate health, manpower development, and
research, responsive to the country’s health needs and
problems.
Section 14 reiterates that the State shall protect working
women by providing safe and healthful working
conditions, taking into account their maternal functions,
and such facilities and opportunities that will enhance
their welfare and enable them to realize their full
potential in the service of the nation.

All government agencies shall adopt Gender

Mainstreaming as a strategy to promote women’s human
rights; eliminate gender discrimination, and integrate
GAD into government policies, programs, projects and
activities; and mandates national agencies and local
government units (LGUs) to prepare an annual GAD Plan
and Budget (GPB), through the provision of at least for
five percent allocation of agency and LGU budgets for
GAD activities, including the creation and strengthening
of a GAD Focal Point System (GFPS) as an institutional
mechanism to catalyze and accelerate gender
mainstreaming.
RA 9710 or the Magna Carta of
Women Act of 2009 Section 20 (Women’s Right to Health) provides for
comprehensive health services for all stages of a
woman's life cycle with the major goal of reducing
women’s health risks, particularly those resulting from
complications of pregnancy and childbirth as well as
gender-based violence.
Other DOH-related services include 1) provision of
“Minimum Initial Service Package for Reproductive
Health (MISP)” during the onset of emergencies due to
conflict situations or natural disasters; and 2) formulation
of the standards and guidelines in the establishment of
the VAW desk, capability building, and monitoring and
evaluation, in collaboration with PCW, DILG and DSWD.

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 LAWS, POLICIES &
ENABLING MANDATES
STRATEGIES

RA 11936 or the General Mandates national agencies as well as local government

Appropriations Act FY 2023 units to prepare an annual GAD Plan and Budget (GPB).

Integrates women as full and equal partners of men in

development; provides that 30% of official development
RA 7192 or the Women in assistance fund shall be used by agencies concerned to
Development and Nation support gender-responsive programs; ensures women’s
Building Act of 1992 active participation in the project cycle, collection of sex-
disaggregated data and development of tools for
gender integration.

RA 9262 or the Anti-Violence Violence against women and children is classified as a

Against Women and their public crime, and all forms of abuse and violence within
Children Act of 2004 the family and intimate relationships are penalized.

Covers all forms of gender-based sexual harassment

RA 11313 or the Safe Spaces Act committed in public spaces, educational or training
of 2018 (Bawal Bastos Law) institutions, workplace and online space, with prescribed
penalties for offenses committed.

Provides universal access to reproductive health care

RA 10354 or the Responsible services, family planning methods, sexual education,
Parenthood and Reproductive and maternal care. The Act contains challenging
Health Act of 2012 provisions on accessing FP commodities and services by
adolescents, and women’s body autonomy in accessing
bilateral tubal ligation.

Provides health insurance coverage and ensures

RA 10606 or National Health affordable, acceptable, available, and accessible health
Insurance Act of 2013 care services for all citizens. The gender analysis of this
Act and its implementing rules and regulations showed
that it is largely gender-blind.

RA 7305 or the Magna Carta of Promotes and improves the social and economic well-
Public Health Workers of 1992 being of public health workers, their living and working
conditions and terms of employment.

Declares child marriages of those below 18 years old as

illegal and imposes penalties for violations; and
RA 11596 or Prohibition of Child abolishes all traditional and cultural practices and
Marriages Law of 2021 structures that perpetuate discrimination, abuse and
exploitation of children such as the practice of child
marriage.

Scales up national and local health and nutrition

RA 11148 - 1,000 Days Act or the programs through a strengthened integrated strategy
“Kalusugan at Nutrisyon ng for maternal, neonatal, child health and nutrition in the
Mag-Nanay” of 2018 first 1,000 days of life, when the children’s brain, body
and immune system grows and develops significantly.

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 LAWS, POLICIES &
ENABLING MANDATES
STRATEGIES

Amending for the Purpose Act No. 3815, as amended,

RA 11648 - An Act - Promoting otherwise known as "The Revised Penal Code," Republic
for Stronger Protection Against Act No. 8353, also known as Act No. 7610, as amended,
Rape and Sexual Exploitation otherwise known as the "Special Protection of Children
and Abuse, Increasing the Age Against Abuse, Exploitation And Discrimination Act".
for Determining the Commission
of Statutory Rape This new law raises the minimum age of sexual consent
from 12 to 16

This law provides for the increase in the maternity leave

period to one hundred five (105) days for female workers
RA 11210 or the 105-Day with an option to for an additional thirty (30) days
Expanded Maternity Leave Law without pay, and granting an additional fifteen (15) days
for solo mothers.

Amending for the Purpose Republic Act No. 8972, entitled

"An Act Providing for Benefits and Privileges to Solo
Parents and Their Children, Appropriating Funds
RA 11861 or an Act Granting Therefore and for Other Purposes.
Additional Benefits to Solo
Parents This law aims to ensure the rights of Filipino Solo Parents
to receive adequate social protection programs from the
government.

Amending for the Purpose Article One Hundred Thirty-

RA 6725 or An Act Strengthening Five Of The Labor Code, As Amended.
the Prohibition on Discrimination
Against Women with Respect to This law disallows employers' discrimination against
Terms and Conditions of female employees, with respect to terms and conditions
Employment of employment solely on account of their gender.

This law provides for special protections to children from

all forms of sexual violence, abuse and exploitation
RA 11930 or Anti-Online Sexual especially those committed with the use of information
Abuse Exploitation of Children and communications technology (ICT) as well as
(OSAEC) and Anti-Child Sexual formulating programs for the prevention, deterrence and
Abuse or Exploitation Materials intervention in all situations of online sexual abuse and
(CSAEM) Act exploitation of children in the digital and non-digital
production, distribution or possession of child sexual
abuse or exploitation material.

Acknowledges the root causes teen pregnancy are

“endangered patterns of discrimination, deep-seated
Executive Order No. 141 (s. norms and attitudes that normalize and justify violence
2021)- Adopting as a National against women and children, lack of information and
Priority the Implementation of education, and the vulnerability and exclusion of women
Measures to Address the Root and children living in remote and rural areas,” and
Causes of the Rising Number of provides for a whole of government approach in
Teenage Pregnancies implementing measures to curb the increase of teen
pregnancies.

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 LAWS, POLICIES &
ENABLING MANDATES
STRATEGIES

DOH Administrative Order No. Provides a strategic framework for men’s involvement
2021- 0025 or the “National and responsibility in reproductive health which is
Policy and Strategic Framework anchored on the RPRH Law
on the Men’s Health Program”

Emphasizes the need for sustainable and resilient food

DOH-DILG Joint Administrative systems, safe neighborhoods from violence, and
Order No. 2021-0002 or the available and accessible essential health services,
National Policy Framework on among others; indicates that an LGU shall be recognized
the Promotion and as a “healthy community” if it is able to foster a health
Recognition of Healthy promoting environment and ensure a responsive local
Communities health system, following the WHO’s settings-based
approach to health promotion.

NATIONAL AND SECTORAL PLANS

Provides a 25-year long term vision as a guide for

development planning across at least four
administrations. Health is one of the nine priority sectors
Ambisyon Natin 2040 with the greatest potential to contribute to realizing
Ambisyon. Its vision is a long and healthy life for all
Filipinos, which includes good primary care, access to
public healthcare facilities and protection from costs of
catastrophic illnesses.

Ensuring that Filipinos are healthy is fundamental to the

transformational goals of the current administration’s
socioeconomic agenda. By 2028, Filipinos will enjoy
longer and healthier lives, will be guided to make healthy
Philippine Development Plan choices; and will be assured access, with financial
(PDP) 2023-2028 protection, to quality health services when needed. The
new PDP targets the following outcomes: (a) social
determinants of health improved; (b) healthy choices and
behavior enabled; (c) access, quality, and efficiency of
health care improved; and (d) health systems
strengthened.

Compendium of Indicators for Monitoring and

Monitoring and Evaluation of Evaluation of GEWE is a compilation of pre-selected but
Gender Equality and Women’s wide-ranging lists of indicators based on a sectoral and
Empowerment in the Philippines: thematic framework for measuring the results of GEWE
A Compendium of Indicators. initiatives in the Philippines. It presents a menu of GEWE
Volume 1 and 2 indicators in various sectoral and thematic areas of
concerns, including the health sector.

Provides a dedicated chapter on health and nutrition

with overall strategic outcome for women and girls for
Updated GEWE Plan (2019-2025) improved access to sexual and reproductive health,
nutrition and family planning; and describes the health
impacts of the pandemic on gender equality issues.

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 LAWS, POLICIES &
ENABLING MANDATES
STRATEGIES

A 30-year long-term plan that carries the Philippines’

long-term vision of women’s empowerment and gender
equality and serves as a vehicle for implementing the
Beijing Declaration and the Platform for Action to pursue
Philippine Plan for Gender- gender mainstreaming and prioritize government action
Responsive Development (1995- in 12 critical areas of concern and different sectors of
2025) development. In view of the PPGD’s long-term goal of
fully integrating gender and development (GAD)
concerns in the whole development process, the
mainstreaming of the GAD perspective was entrusted to
the heads of the agencies, supported by their respective
GAD Focal Points to ensure institutionalization.

The National Objectives for Health (NOH) serve as the

medium-term road map of the Philippines towards
achieving Universal Health Care (UHC). The NOH details
the strategic objectives, formulated goals, and strategies
Philippine National Objectives that guided the national government, local government
for Health 2023-2028 units (LGUs), and health partners in policy/program
development and implementation; intervention
prioritization; and resource allocation, towards achieving
the vision of Filipinos being among the healthiest in Asia
by 2040.

JOINT CIRCULARS AND MEMORANDA (PCW)

Defines 1) essential elements to consider in preparing the

PCW-NEDA-DBM Joint Circular GPB; 2) institutional mechanisms to implement the MCW;
2012-01 or The Guidelines in 3) programs, projects, and activities that can and cannot
Preparing GAD Plan and Budget be charged to the GAD Budget; and 4) submission
(GPB) and GAD Accomplishment process of GPB and GAD AR.
Report (AR) to Implement the
MCW Updated in PCW MC 2022-03: Preparation and Online
Submission of Fiscal Year (FY) 2023 Gender and
Development (GAD) Plans and Budgets.

Provides the guidelines and procedures in the

PCW MC 2018-04 on the Revised formulation, implementation, monitoring, and evaluation
Guidelines for the Preparation of the multi-year GAD Agenda as basis for the annual
of the GAD Agenda GAD Plans and Budgets of agencies, and in identifying
programs, activities, and projects to be undertaken to
achieve the GAD goals and outcomes.

Self-assessment tool that measures the extent of an

PCW MC 2016-01 on the Use of agency’s gender mainstreaming efforts in line with the
the Enhanced GMEF Tool provisions of the MC. Serves as an organizational gender
analysis and monitoring tool in assessing agency
progress in gender mainstreaming.

Sets the guidelines for the creation, strengthening, and

PCW MC 2011-01 on the Creation institutionalization of the GFPS. The purpose of the
of the GFPS guidelines is to clarify the composition and structure as
well as roles and responsibilities of the GFPS on gender
mainstreaming.

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 LAWS, POLICIES &
ENABLING MANDATES
STRATEGIES

Provides a self-assessment GAD Focal Point System

PCW MC 2022-02 on the Use of Functionality Assessment Tool to examine the
the GFPS Functionality performance and level of compliance with existing
Assessment Tool guidelines and to assess GFPS functionality of
government entities.

INTERNATIONAL COMMITMENTS

Promotes equality in all fields; affirmative action for

women; non-discrimination in work on the grounds of
UN Convention on the marriage, maternity or pregnancy, and in access to
Elimination of All Forms of health care services including those related to FP, RH,
Discrimination Against Women and adequate nutrition during pregnancy and lactation;
(CEDAW), 1981 protection of women from violence; elimination of
prejudices and customary and all other practices which
are based on the stereotyped roles for men and women;
among others.

Calls for actions on the 12 areas of concern affecting all

women and girls or children; requires the integration of
equality concerns into the analyses and formulation of
Beijing Plan for Action (BPfA) policies, programs, and projects to ensure positive
impacts on women and reduce gender disparities; and
includes the interests, needs, and visions of women in the
development of policies, programs and overall
development agenda.

SGD 3: Health and well-being includes targets to ensure

universal access to sexual reproductive health care
services including family planning.
Sustainable Development Goal 3
(Good Health and Well-Being) SDG 5: Achieve gender equality and empower all women
and Goal 5 (Gender Equality) and girls. Its targets take into consideration unpaid care
and domestic work, women’s equal rights to economic
resources, all forms of violence against women, early
marriage and participation of women in all decision-
making processes.

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 ANNEX B: LIST OF DOH POLICY ISSUANCES SUPPORTING
8-POINT ACTION AGENDA AND UHC
1 DOH AO No. 2023-0015: Adoption of the 8-Point Action Agenda as the Medium-
Term Strategy of the Health Sector for 2023-2028.

2 DOH AO No. 2021-0026: Monitoring and Evaluation Framework for Republic Act
11223 (Universal Health Care Act).

3 DOH AO No. 2017-0014: Framework for Redefining Service Delivery Networks

(SDN) to enhance the operation and organization of SDNs.

4 DOH AO 2020-0018: Guidelines on Contracting P/CWHS, which sets standards for

HCPNs and apex hospitals.

5 DOH AO 2020-0019: Guidelines on the Service Delivery Design of Health Care

Provider Networks (HCPN), which specifies the scope and minimum level of
functionality of an integrated Local Health Systems.

6 DOH AO 2020-0019-A: Amendment to AO 2020-0019 entitled Guidelines on the

Service Delivery Design of HCPNs.

7 DOH AO 2020-0021: Guidelines on the Integration of Local Health Systems (LMS)

into P/CWHS, which provides the legal instrument for contracting P/CWHS

8 DOH AO No. 2020-0024: Primary Care Policy Framework and Sectoral Strategies to
strengthen primary care and delineate roles and responsibilities.

9 DOH AO 2020-0037: Guidelines on the Implementation of LHS Maturity Levels,

defining the levels of progression and building blocks, mechanisms and key result
areas.

10 DOH AO 2020-0063: Health Promotion Framework Strategy in Province-wide and

City-wide Health Systems (P/CWHS), which provides guidance in the development,
and implementation of health promotion policies, programs, plans, and activities.

11 DOH AO No. 2023-0003: Policy Framework for Private Sector Engagement for the
ProvinceWide and City-Wide Health Systems in Support of Universal Health Care

12 DOH, DBM, DOF and PhilHealth Joint Memorandum Circular (JMC) 2021-0001:
Guidelines on the Allocation, Utilization and Monitoring of and Accountability for
the Special Health Fund.

13 DOH and PhilHealth Joint AO 2020-0001: Guidelines on the Registration of Filipinos

to a Primary Care Provider, defining the roles and responsibilities of DOH,
PhilHealth, LGUs and primary care providers.

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 14 PhilHealth Circular No. 2020-0020: Guidelines on the Costing of Health Services
that will be provided by its contracted health care providers.

15 DOH and DILG JAO No. 2021-0002: National Policy Framework on the Promotion
and Recognition of Health Communities.

16 DOH and DILG JAO 2020-0001: Policy Framework on Leadership and Governance
for Health Towards a Functional Local Health Board to help catalyze the
integration of the local health systems and implement the provisions of the UHC
Act.

17 CHED-TESDA-DOH-PRC-DOST JAO No. 2021-0001 or the “Guidelines for Expanding

Health Professional and Health Worker Scholarships and Return Service
Agreements for UHC.

18 DOH AO No. 2021-0006: International Health Partners Support to Local Health

System Integration which provides guidance on assistance to UHC-IS by
development partners.

19 DOH AO No. 2019-0046: Guidelines on the Institutionalization of Disaster Risk

Reduction and Management in Health (DRRM-H) in Province-wide and City-wide
Health Systems.

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