PCW Urges Government Agencies:Do Not Sideline Programs for Women Amid Energy Crisis

To navigate the national energy emergency without sidelining women’s rights, the Philippine Commission on Women has released Advisory No. 2026-001, on ‘Safeguarding Gender and Development (GAD) Implementation Amid Mandatory Austerity and the National Energy Emergency.’   

Under its latest advisory, the Commission calls on agencies to adjust their project modalities for greater energy efficiency, while ensuring that GAD mandates remain fully implemented. The Commission’s message is clear: conserve energy, without compromising progress on gender equality and women empowerment.

Under the Magna Carta of Women (RA 9710) and its Implementing Rules and Regulations, agencies are reminded of their duty to protect women across every phase of relief, recovery, and reconstruction. Even in times of crisis, GAD budgets remain protected and strictly for their intended purpose. Ensuring the proper utilization of this budget is imperative, as it underpins the continuous delivery of essential services for women.

Call for Gender-Responsive Crisis Management

The Advisory states that all responses to the national energy emergency must remain gender-responsive, with a primary focus on safeguarding access to justice, essential services, and safety for marginalized women. Since emergencies like rising oil prices disproportionately impact women by worsening existing inequalities, agencies are urged to apply a gender lens to all planning and austerity measures. By prioritizing gender-responsive strategies, the government ensures that the path to energy stability promotes resilience without leaving the most vulnerable behind.

PCW emphasizes that all operational shifts must be transparently documented – agencies are directed to reflect these readjusted activities in their GAD Accomplishment Reports, providing a clear narrative on how modified programs continued to champion gender equality during the energy crisis.

Upholding this commitment ensures that gender-responsive governance remains the backbone of inclusive public service. Energy stability and gender equality must progress together, ensuring that crisis management consistently upholds and strengthens the rights and empowerment of women.