Diverse Voices and Initiatives: Reducing the Gaps of Women Invisibility with Their Contribution to Managing Protected Areas

This study aims to determine the roles of women in protected area management across selected sectoral stakeholders' organizations involved in the protected area management of Mt. Kitanglad Range Natural Park, Bukidnon, Philippines. Using a qualitative descriptive study design with key informant interviews, the results revealed that women played multi-faceted roles in different sectoral stakeholders' organizations that were operating in the interest of the park management. They serve as administrators, local barangay executives, capability and network builders, forest guards, mediators, and knowledge holders. They take initiatives or participate in conservation efforts in the communities, supporting park management and producing positive conservation outcomes. This study, therefore, concludes that women matter in protected area governance. It implies that to strengthen inclusive governance, women should not only be recognized but also be included in the management system processes of protected areas.

Women Roles and Contribution, Conservation and Protected Area management

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