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Lived Experiences of Barangay Council of Women Members on
Gender and Development Initiatives Implementation
Agnes T. Mijares
1*
, Mona L. Laya
2
1
Graduate School Department, Master of Arts in Education major in Sociology, Student, University of
the Immaculate Conception
2
Graduate School Department, Faculty, University of the Immaculate Conception
*Corresponding Author
DOI: https://dx.doi.org/10.47772/IJRISS.2025.91100097
Received: 16 November 2025; Accepted: 22 November 2025; Published: 01 December 2025
ABSTRACT
This study employed a qualitative approach specifically phenomenology to explore and understand the lived
experiences of Barangay Council of Women members on Gender and Development initiatives implementation.
In-depth Interviews (IDIs) and Focus Group Discussion (FGD) were conducted to gather the qualitative data.
Through thematic analysis, the lived experiences of the participants were described according to the following
themes: socio-cultural barriers, information dissemination gaps, budgetary implementation constraints,
constrained local autonomy, women’s expanding capacities, knowledge sharing opportunities, and community-
centered interventions. In addition, the following themes were generated as regards coping mechanisms of the
participants, including adaptive engagement strategies, strategic resource management, participatory program
evaluation, and resilient leadership commitment. Moreover, the following themes were extracted from the
insights shared by the participants to the academe and the community: Gender and Development is a knowledge-
driven empowerment, inclusive Gender and Development leadership practice, Gender and Development
promotes confidence through enterprise, Gender and Development advances intergenerational gender awareness,
and Gender and Development implementation requires collaborative institutional support.
Keywords: Sociology, Barangay Council of Women Members, Gender and Development, initiatives,
implementation, phenomenology, Philippines
INTRODUCTION
Gender and Development works to mainstream gender equality which guide development decisions and
reinforces women to do their role in generating development, rather than merely passive beneficiaries. It is
viewed as a development approach and a process that promotes participation, empowerment, equity,
sustainability, free from violence that respect human rights, and help the people to make their own choices and
achieve their potential (Philippine Guarantee Corporation, n.d.). Gender and Development initiatives were
ensured pursuant to the provisions of the Republic Act 9710 (Magna Carta of Women), which directed
government offices including Local Government Units to implement and formulate a Gender and Development
Code appropriate to the unique needs and issues of women in their locality (Philippine Commission on Women,
2009). However, the implementation of Gender and Development particularly in regional level was unsuccessful
(Hanani et al., 2025). It is also evident in the study of Mendoza et al. (2020) that despite the progress brought by
Gender and Development initiatives in city governments and barangay level, the implementation continues to
face significant challenges which include the underrepresentation of women in barangay governance.
Similar studies have been identified internationally, such as the study of Maduka (2024) in Nigeria which
revealed that the outcomes of the implementation of Gender and Development have been ineffective and far
from what is expected, as women still suffer limited opportunities for development, and the policy fails to deal
with the root structures that underpin gender inequality and disempowerment. Likewise, a study of Guragain and
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Pokharel (2024) in Nepal emphasized the persistent challenges including the gaps in the implementation of
Gender and Development, patriarchal norms, and economic disparities which hinder the promotion of
empowerment and equality. Besides, in East Africa, Ampaire et al. (2019) elaborated in their study that lack of
coherence in the implementation of Gender and Development initiatives particularly in gender mainstreaming
was observed and the allocations in addressing issues on gender remained low and inconsistent.
Meanwhile, in the Philippines, a study of Sagcal and Ramos (2024) cited that barangays have adopted Gender
and Development, but the initiatives often do not incorporate a clear gender-sensitive approach which limit their
ability to meet the various needs of both men and women. In addition, a study of Perigo and Mangila (2020)
highlighted that Gender and Development initiatives were already established but the effectivity of the
implementation was hindered with a challenge that include the shortcomings of the authorities to apply bottomup
approach particularly in the formulation of policy and execution. Not only that, a study of Rañon (2024)
mentioned that there were corruption practices and abuse of resources involved on the implementation that
weaken the process of Gender and Development initiatives and frameworks.
Notably, in Davao Region, a study of Aloba et al. (2024) asserted that the effective implementation of Gender
and Development was constrained with a lack of adequate trainings and resources despite evident efforts to
resolve gender inequalities. Also, a study of Palaniappan et al. (2017) noted that significant barriers of gender
issues such as traditional gender stereotypes, marginalization of women, and inequalities between men and
women continue to limit the implementation of Gender and Development initiatives particularly in gender
mainstreaming. Furthermore, research showed that the implementation of Gender and Development remained
limited in scope as Catubigan et al. (2023) confirmed that there are still women who have limited understanding
on the concept and essential provisions of women empowerment especially on their rights stated in the Republic
Act 9710 (Magna Carta of Women).
From the readings I accessed, numerous existing studies were identified such as the study of Moyani et al. (2023)
which employed a quantitative research design and focused on the assessment of GAD focal persons in terms of
their knowledge, commitment, and extent compliance on Gender and Development. Added on, a study of Karim
et al. (2016) utilized a qualitative approach and investigated on gendered design and practice of a development
initiative. Also, a study of Sotes et al. (2024) applied a qualitative design and explored about gender equality
barriers among maritime students. It was evident that prior studies have not examined the lived experiences of
the Barangay Council of Women members particularly on the challenges they faced, how they coped with the
struggles they experienced in the implementation of Gender and Development initiatives, as well as the
significant impacts these initiatives brought to their lives.
Correspondingly, this study provided a huge contribution in improving and strengthening programs and
initiatives that aim to achieve women empowerment. Through the examined experiences of Barangay Council
of Women members on Gender and Development initiatives implementation, the study also provided valuable
information to help attain the 5th Sustainable Development Goal which aims to achieve gender equality and
empower all women and girls. In addition, the results of the study informed the authorities for community-based
interventions, supports, and policy enhancements to ensure that the implementation of GAD initiatives are
successful in promoting women empowerment and equality. It further amplified that barangay-level
organizations play an important role in societal norm-shaping, access to resources, and in providing inclusive
environment for women.
The findings of the study were disseminated to various local authorities in the province of Davao de Oro,Higher
Education Institutions (HEIs), and organizations through symposiums and seminars, as I firmly believed they
could help in educating the community regarding the awareness of Gender and Development initiatives and in
ensuring meaningful dialogue among stakeholders and implementers. In line with this, the findings of the study
were shared during the assembly of women in collaboration with the Municipal Women Development Council.
To ensure its greater significance, this research study was presented in the international research conferences to
reach a wider academic audience to contribute to global discussions on gender equality and women
empowerment. Further, to highlight its potential impact on gender-related research, this study was published in
a peer-reviewed journal for wider dissemination, reinforcing its contribution in the field.
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Research Questions
1. What are the lived experiences of the Barangay Council of Women in the implementation of Gender and
Development initiatives?
2. What are the coping mechanisms of the Barangay Council of Women in the implementation of Gender
and Development initiatives?
3. What insights can be shared to the academe and the community regarding the implementation of Gender
and Development initiatives?
Theoretical Lens
This study was seen through the lens of the theory of Women Empowerment Framework (Longwe, 1995). The
framework has five levels mainly the welfare, access, conscientization, participation, and control. The first level
is welfare which refers to the enhancement in socio-economic conditions that include better nutrition, improved
housing, or increased income. Besides, the second level focuses on the enhancement of the status of women by
having access to resources particularly land, labor, public services, and benefits. In addition, conscientization as
the third level involves the ability of women in recognizing that traditional roles between men and women are
not fixed and equality in gender is achievable. The succeeding level is participation where women believe that
they could also involve in making decisions and taking part in all programs and policyrelated activities. The final
level is control where women achieved equal power and authority in decision-making and managing resources.
The levels under the framework guided the study on the exploration of the lived experiences of Barangay Council
of Women members on GAD initiatives implementation by focusing on the third, fourth, and fifth levels:
conscientization, mobilization, and control. Conscientization was used to examine how GAD initiatives
influenced the perspectives of the BCOW members that challenges particularly inequalities in the community
can actually be addressed. Conversely, participation level guided the study by exploring how GAD initiatives
transformed the lives of women to move beyond silence, express their views, and assert their perspectives. Lastly,
control was employed to assess how GAD initiatives enabled women to recognize their power and capability to
make final decisions.
METHODOLOGY
This study employed a qualitative type of research which is appropriate for exploring complex human
experiences and social processes. According to Busetto et al. (2020), qualitative research is research into the
nature of things and it is useful for answering questions about why some phenomena take place (or do not occur),
evaluating complex, multi-faceted interventions, and determining how those interventions might be improved
by learning more about context and lived experience.
Additionally, this study utilized a phenomenological approach. As what Adeniran and Tayo-Ladega (2024)
elaborated, qualitative phenomenological research design aims to unravel the nature of reality through
uncovering of shared or common lived experiences, adding the researcher's perspective in regard to the
phenomenon as the event unfolds. This, in essence, allows the researcher to attain a new understanding of an
event.
Phenomenological studies in the field of women's leadership and community involvement have helped to
uncover complexities in the lived experiences of women. For instance, Johnson (2020) explored the experiences
of women participating in leadership development programs, demonstrating how such programs transform
women's leadership journeys. Another study by Boujaber-Diederichs (2023) which used a phenomenological
lens to explore challenges and supports experienced by grassroots women leaders when engaging in community
leadership roles. Such findings identified phenomenology as important method in unraveling the depth and
richness behind the experiences of women within the contexts of leadership and development.
From a methodological perspective, phenomenology focuses on how people or groups experience a particular
phenomenon. In this context, the method significantly contributed in gathering a broad range of perspectives
from the lived experiences, coping mechanisms, and insights of the Barangay Council of Women members on
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the implementation of Gender and Development initiatives. Hence, the approach mentioned above was well-
suited to achieving the purpose of this study, as it helped in identifying patterns, meanings, and shared
understandings that could lead to future practice and policy.
RESULTS
The Lived Experiences of the Barangay Council of Women Members in the Implementation of GAD
Initiatives
Presented in Table 1 are the experiences of the members of the Barangay Council of Women in Gender and
Development initiatives implementation. The following are the essential themes generated from the various
statements of the participants in this study: socio-cultural barriers, information dissemination gaps, budgetary
implementation constraints, constrained local autonomy, women’s expanding capacities, knowledge sharing
opportunities, and community-centered interventions.
Table 1 Lived Experiences of the Barangay Council of Women Members in the Implementation of Gender and
Development Initiatives
Essential Theme
Core Ideas
Socio-Cultural Barriers
Women cite domestic responsibilities, childcare, and work as reasons for
not attending the training.
Some women are discouraged by lack of incentives (no allowance, no
capital for livelihood projects).
Some women lack interest, feel embarrassed, or believe activities won’t
change their situation.
Some men resist their wives’ participation in activities.
Indigenous People (IP) women often excluded due to lack of information
or feelings of marginalization.
Information Dissemination Gaps
Ineffective information flow from purok leaders to members causes
missed opportunities.
Some women hesitate to ask questions about the activities.
Some women claim they were not informed about activities.
Budgetary Implementation
Constraints
Limited funds hinder the full implementation of livelihood and training
projects.
Pandemic-related reductions in the National Tax Allotment (NTA)
affected GAD allocations
Women leaders need to stretch resources, contribute personally, or rely
on external trainers.
Constrained Local Autonomy
BCW has little authority to propose local ordinances—policy suggestions
often depend on municipal/provincial approval.
Mostly adapt national laws and policies
(e.g., RA 9262, Magna Carta for Women).
Political alignments (e.g., barangay vs. municipal leadership) sometimes
affect support for women’s programs.
Women’s Expanding Capacities
Balancing multiple responsibilities-family, work, studies, barangay
service- GAD implementation.
Leadership positions (e.g., purok president, BCOW officer) give them a
platform to empower other women.
The position gives them the opportunity to go beyond being a housewife
and actively contribute to the community.
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Knowledge Sharing Opportunities
Attended regular seminars and trainings
(e.g., Magna Carta of Women, Gender Sensitivity, R.A. 9262, SOGIE,
livelihood, TESDA skills).
Women cascade their learnings to puroklevel members.
Topics on livelihood skills (e.g., handicrafts, food processing, massage,
candle-making, basket weaving) are prioritize in the training for women.
Community-Centered
Interventions
BCW leaders assist in counseling and referrals to Municipal Social
Welfare and Development.
They help in the IEC campaigns and coordinate with the police.
Women find the issues with teenage pregnancy, child labor, and youth
delinquency as a community concern.
Coping Mechanisms of the Barangay Council of Women Members in the Implementation of GAD
Initiatives
Shown in Table 2 are the coping strategies of the Barangay Council of Women members in implementing Gender
and Development initiatives. The following are the essential themes extracted from the narratives of the
participants such as adaptive engagement strategies, strategic resource management, participatory program
evaluation, and resilient leadership commitment.
Table 2 Coping Mechanisms of Barangay Council of Women Members in the implementation of Gender and
Development Initiatives
Essential Theme
Core Ideas
Adaptive Engagement Strategies
Personally visiting homes, one-on-one talks, or using purok leaders to
encourage women to join.
Inserting GAD topics in meetings, schools, or seminars to stress
importance.
Giving women specific tasks (snacks, chairs, assisting speakers) so they
feel involved and valued.
Small tokens (groceries, rice, lemons) are used to attract participation.
Strategic Resource Management
Carefully prioritizing essential programs
Seeking support from LGU, MSWD, TESDA, DOLE, DTI, PNP, NGOs,
private companies (e.g., mining firms), and even individual donors.
Rotating participants across puroks to stretch limited budgets.
Unimplemented activities get carried over to the next Annual Investment
Plan
Coordination with LGU & agencies for trainers and resource persons.
Participatory Program Evaluation
Yearly accomplishment reports, assemblies, and feedbacking sessions to
assess program success.
Checking if skills/livelihood trainings were applied (e.g., massage, ice
cream, business).
Replacing failed or impractical trainings (e.g., dishwashing) with more
relevant ones.
Incorporating suggestions of members, purok leaders, or participants for
better implementation.
Resilient Leadership Commitment
Believed that “every problem has a solution”
Leaders stress patience, time management and not giving up despite
challenges.
Leaders see GAD implementation as both a duty and advocacy, driven
by passion and love for their work.
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Insights Shared by the Barangay Council of Women Members to the Academe and Community regarding
the Implementation of GAD Initiatives
Demonstrated in Table 3 are the insights shared by the Barangay Council of Women members in implementing
Gender and Development initiatives. The following are the essential themes drawn from the participants in this
study: Gender and Development is a knowledge-driven empowerment, inclusive Gender and Development
Leadership practice, Gender and Development promotes confidence through enterprise, Gender and
Development advances intergenerational gender awareness, and Gender and Development implementation
requires collaborative institutional support.
Table 3 Insights Shared by the Barangay Council of Women Members to the Academe and Community regarding
the Implementation of Gender and Development Initiatives
Core Ideas
GAD builds self-confidence, courage, and leadership skills
among women.
Women became more knowledgeable about their rights
GAD opened their awareness that both men and women can
share responsibilities at home and in leadership.
Leadership is viewed as a service-oriented role, not one of
superiority.
Good leaders should set an example and serve as role models
for other women.
Leaders act as voices for the voiceless, advocating for those
who cannot speak out.
Leadership also strengthened unity and inclusivity among
women of different backgrounds.
Livelihood programs (gardening, handicrafts, candle-making,
soap-making, pig-raising, food processing, massage, etc.)
provided practical income opportunities.
Economic empowerment boosted women’s self-confidence and
decision-making role in the family.
Skills gained from livelihood training were shared with family
members, multiplying the benefits.
Some women were able to sustain small businesses from what
they learned.
GAD knowledge and values were shared at home, improving
relationships within families.
Children were taught early respect for equality, helping to break
gender stereotypes at a young age.
Husbands became more supportive and cooperative, especially
in allowing wives to join activities.
Many women emphasized that youth should be included in
GAD trainings for stronger intergenerational awareness.
Strong financial, technical, and moral support from LGUs,
barangay officials, and partner agencies is essential.
Consistent trainings, seminars, and campaigns are needed to
deepen women’s understanding of GAD.
Effective information dissemination ensures more women can
participate.
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Partnerships with TESDA, DOLE, DTI, MSWD, PNP, NGOs,
and private companies help supplement limited resources.
Leaders stressed the importance of unity and cooperation to
sustain GAD activities.
DISCUSSION
The Lived Experiences of the Barangay Council of Women Members in the Implementation of GAD Initiatives
This study delved with the experiences of the Barangay Council of Women members in Gender and Development
initiatives implementation. The following are the essential themes generated from the various statements of the
participants in this study: socio-cultural barriers, information dissemination gaps, budgetary implementation
constraints, constrained local autonomy, women’s expanding capacities, knowledge sharing opportunities, and
community-centered interventions.
Socio-Cultural Barriers. The result of the study revealed that the BCOW members struggled in encouraging
women in the communities to participate due to social and cultural norms that include domestic responsibilities,
patriarchal resistance, and cultural identity. The participants highlighted that these barriers continue to shape the
behavior and confidence of women in participating. This implies that there is a limited participation of women
which hinders the inclusive and effective implementation of the BCOW members in gender-responsive activities,
programs, and livelihood trainings, reducing the overall impact of GAD initiatives towards the attainment of
empowerment and equality at the grassroot level. This finding affirms the study of Manalu et al. (2022) which
revealed that due to cultural norms, the participation of women was affected and disparities still remain as the
challenge of the government in implementing community-based management programs since there are still
women who are often marginalized in access and management. The finding also aligns with the study of Charway
and Strandbu (2024) which found that the lack of women participation was also affected by some cultural norms
which continue to restrict their engagement in community activities making the gender-inclusive policies weak.
In addition, this finding agrees to the study of Hussain and Hussain (2018) which showed that even if
development processes and programs mobilize Women’s Community Organizations, the impact is still limited
because of the socio-cultural norms that limit active participation of women. According to Gyan et al. (2021)
women particularly in rural societies experienced significant challenges in introducing community development
processes because of the limited participation of women and decision-making brought by patriarchal values that
excluded them from taking an active role and empowerment. Moreover, Bazaanah and Ngcobo (2024)
emphasized how the persistence of cultural factor limit the rights of movements of women in attaining gender
equality and empowerment and how it impacts the collective participation of women against gender-based
violence.
Information Dissemination Gaps. The finding of the study showed that the BCOW members experienced
challenges in ensuring effective dissemination of information towards women in the community. The participants
revealed that there is a weak communication processes between purok leaders and women members, resulting in
unequal access to GAD initiatives opportunities. This indicates that communication barriers restrict the efforts
of BCOW members in mobilizing women participation and in sustaining their engagement in GAD activities,
empowerment programs, and livelihood trainings. This result is in accordance with the study of Limbong et al.
(2025) which asserted that efforts of gender mainstreaming introduced by women-led organization have started,
however they are still limited due to barriers in communication, as the information only works well within the
circle of bureaucracy and does not get delivered to the rest of society where it is most required to encourage
participation of women. The result also supports the study of Syamsidar et al. (2025) which emphasized that
despite the effort of women to encourage other women in the community to actively participate and contribute
to development planning, their participation is still limited due to limited information access which hinder their
maximum participation in decision-making processes.
Also, the result expands the study of Maranditya et al. (2025) which stated that despite using thorough
communication measures that includes intrapersonal techniques, public engagement, online media, and the
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8convergence model, the implementation of gender-based stunting prevention acceleration program still has gaps
in participation. Likewise, Dwipayanti et al. (2025) indicated that women’s empowerment programs face barriers
because the awareness of women on the implementation is limited. Thus, Asanwana and Ulo (2025) highlighted
the importance of the increased spread of policies and the active participation of women in organizations
designed to effectively achieve the true empowerment.
Budgetary Implementation Constraints. The finding of the study identified that the BCOW members encountered
with limited funds and inadequate resources. The participants underscore that budget constraints affect the
implementation of GAD initiatives. This signifies that BCOW members could only implement limited number
of gender-responsive programs, activities, and livelihood trainings, resulting in reduced opportunities for
participation and engagement of women, and limit the effective execution of GAD initiatives in the community.
This finding confirms the study of Brosas et al. (2025) which demonstrated that some programs related to Gender
and Development initiatives which focused on gender-based violence and promoting equality were not extended
to all barangays because of the continuing challenge in resource allocation. The finding also concludes the study
of Purnama et al. (2024) which showed that the integration of gender really fosters progress toward development
goals through greater engagement of women however, policy makers and experts experienced struggles in
designing gender mainstreaming due to limited resources.
Similarly, the finding concurs the study Chaudhuri and Morash (2019) which illustrated that empowerment
schemes for women tend to remain limited or not sustained because of their reliance on external support and the
declining financial priority given to gender equality initiatives. Correspondingly, Devkota et al. (2022) stated
that due to the inadequacy of financial resources, implementation of gender mainstreaming at the local level still
fails to produce meaningful change. Hence, as Adem and Mohammed (2020) highlighted, effective gender
mainstreaming involves the satisfaction of primary conditions, such as the availability and mobilization of
adequate resources.
Constrained Local Autonomy. The finding of the study revealed that the BCOW members also faces notable
challenges particularly in their ability to make independent decisions. The participants revealed that they operate
with limited-decision making power due to structured and centralized policies. This means that their limited
authority constraints its ability to initiate gender-responsive policies, programs, and trainings, or adapt GAD
initiatives to local needs which in turn discourages women from participating and becoming actively involved.
This finding is parallel to the result of the study authored by Chaney (2015) which showed that political leaders
have involved civil society in the policy making process towards gender mainstreaming, but collaborative
process was not achieved, as the process is more likely to take a top-down and expert-led bureaucratic approach.
A similar result found in the study of Das et al. (2021) which reported that centralized power relations and
tokenistic decision-making within local government organizations delay the actual participation of women and
undermine gender sensitivity and accountability. The finding also corresponds to the study of Ertugal and
Bagdadi (2024) which revealed that the engagement of political party ideology and individual views of mayors
creates the chances of gender mainstreaming however, inter-governmental disputes hamper the transformative
processes. While Reeta (2024) highlighted the relevance of decentralization as an agent of change that increases
participation and decision-making of women in community projects, Shrestha et al. (2025) on the other hand,
asserted that the absence of institutional adaptation impedes the process of successful implementation of
genderinclusive policies.
Women’s Expanding Capacities. The findings of the study indicated that in implementing Gender and
Development initiatives, the capacities of women are expanding through their involvement in leadership position
that gives them the opportunity to lead and participate meaningfully beyond traditional household
responsibilities. This implies that the BCOW members experience work-life balance challenges while
empowering other women in the community, and actively contributing and encouraging them to engage in the
implementation of GAD initiatives. This finding confirms the study of Lumintao & Baulete (2025) which found
that women leaders particularly in politics manages work-life balance through maintaining personal
commitment, effective time management, and ensuring the well-being of their family while holding on to a firm
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sense of purpose. In addition, this supports the analysis of Wang (2018) which revealed that despite facing
difficulties in balancing family and work lives, women plan their way out of these multiple roles to gain freedom,
fulfilment, and play a significant role in the society.
This finding also concurs the study of Boateng (2025) which showed that the position and civic participation of
assemblywomen inspired and empowered other women so that they could also actively provide to their own
necessities. Aside from that, Fevre et al. (2024) provided strong evidence which stated that women faced barrier
which include the pressures of family responsibilities where they experienced having great difficulty in giving
sufficient time to their families despite trying to balance the demands of work and home. Meanwhile, Mabasa
and Maluka (2025) pointed out that as the work is evolving, it brought many challenges to women leadership
where they must juggle their professional responsibilities with their personal lives.
Knowledge Sharing Opportunities. The result of the study showed that in the implementation of GAD initiatives,
the BCOW members equipped themselves with the necessary knowledge and skills by attending in various
trainings and seminars and shared what they learned to the women in the community. This indicates that while
they enhanced the awareness of women in the community through capacity building initiatives, they are also
challenged in prioritizing GAD activities, trainings, and programs that would ensure that women gain essential
knowledge and practical skills to enhance their empowerment and participation in community development. This
result validates the study of Varsha et al. (2019) which showed that what contributes to the empowerment of
women are the various capacity-building initiatives that include technology-based livelihood support. The
finding also affirms the study of Siddiqui and Pande (2025) which demonstrated that training programs which
include jute bag making, embroidery, poultry, fisheries, pickle production, stitching, handicrafts, cloth bag
making, and others definitely enable women specifically in rural areas to be self-reliant, increase their self-
confidence which socially and economically empower them.
This result echoes the findings of Pandit (2025) which showed that, vocational trainings really help women
improve their technical skills, enhance confidence, strengthen decision-making, and uplift their social status in
families and communities. Additionally, Garbuja and Pasa (2016) elaborated the crucial role of technical and
vocational education and training which serve as important drivers towards social and economic development
and women empowerment at the community level. Apart from that, Caban (2022) highly emphasized the
significance of comprehensive understanding of R.A 9262 which is necessary to protect women and children.
The same author mentioned the need for training on the rights of women, seminars on child protection, and
livelihood programs where the implementation should be initiated by DSWD, PNP, DOH, and State Universities
and colleges.
Community-Centered Interventions. The result of the study reflected that the BCOW members are taking active
roles in addressing community concerns and this demonstrates a solid basis for community-centered
interventions. This reveals that the BCOW members also faces difficulties brought by social issues in the
community which needs to be addressed through the integration of GAD initiatives. This result supports the
evidence of Hernández-Flórez and Klimenko (2023) which discovered that there is a need to respond to women's
needs by not ignoring social justice and gender equity because criminality is based on structural inequality, social
roles, stereotypes, and gender violence. The result reflects the conclusion of Talib-Bauda et al. (2025) which
reported that GAD principles would help in addressing social gender issues like violence, inequality, and
stereotypes with the focus on the contribution of GAD programs to resolving large-scale community social
issues.
This observation is in line with Moyani et al. (2023) which emphasized that in order to solve social issues related
to gender, a call for properly informed and committed application of gender and development programs is vital
and the success of GAD programs relies on the information, dedication, and adherence of local authorities. Goetz
(2014) stated that the collective action of women is needed to eliminate social issues that involve gender
inequalities such as sexual violence, female infanticide, child marriage, female genital mutilation, sexual
violence, and denial of equal access to health care, education, property, employment and remuneration.
Moreover, Daher et al. (2021) added that the integration of gender-specific community programs empower
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women to challenge social issues such as gender stereotypes and develop empowerment through collective action
and shared experience.
Coping Mechanisms of the Barangay Council of Women Members in the Implementation of GAD
Initiatives
This study provided an in-depth exploration on the coping strategies of the Barangay Council of Women
members in implementing Gender and Development initiatives. The following are the essential themes emerged
from the different mechanisms, approaches, and perspectives of the participants in this study: adaptive
engagement strategies, strategic resource management, participatory program evaluation, and resilient
leadership commitment.
Adaptive Engagement Strategies. The result of the study indicated that the BCOW members come up with
adaptive engagement strategies to cope with the limited engagement of women in community activities. This
implies the resourcefulness and adaptability of BCOW members in raising awareness among women in the
community regarding the implementation of GAD activities, empowerment programs, and livelihood trainings.
This finding affirms the study of Yulianti et al. (2025) which demonstrated that adaptive communication that
involves face-to-face persuasion and informal meetings were important in building participation and trust of
women. The same evidence found in the study of Belaid et al. (2024) which reported that adaptive engagement
strategies which encompass home visitation program played an important part in gender equity.
The finding is also consistent with the study of Yanti and Amaliah (2024) which showed that adaptive
engagement strategies like using communication styles appropriate in local settings including participatory and
collaborative ones effectively engage communities. According to Harun et al. (2023), adaptive engagement
approaches that involve dialogue improve the motivation of women to participate actively in village development
planning. Similarly, Boucher (2015) also explained the significance of providing a small financial incentive
which greatly improves the response rates and participation of women.
Strategic Resource Management. The evidence of the study found that the BCOW members captures the essence
of strategic resource management to ensure the continuity and sustainability of GAD initiatives. This
demonstrates that the BCOW members exercise careful planning, coordination, and prioritization to effectively
carry out the implementation of GAD activities, empowerment programs, and livelihood trainings. This result
supports to the study of Howes and Preston (2024) which showed that success of gender-responsive policing
programs rely on strategic coordination and partnerships, which promote collaboration among stakeholders.
Additionally, the finding confirms the study of Mulema et al. (2022) which revealed that working in coordination
with influential stakeholders who have the capacity and commitment to work on gender issues results in more
effective and sustainable results.
This finding concurs with the study of Vélez et al. (2020) which found that successful gender mainstreaming
requires an appropriately planned and transformational strategy that is developed and executed in collaboration
with national women's organizations, civil society, and in support of relevant external institutions. Nevertheless,
Mangubhai et al. (2022) presented that the effectiveness of strategic partnerships largely rests on the ability and
willingness of stakeholders to work together in pursuing gender equality. Likewise, Odero et al. (2025) asserted
that gender integration can be effective based on the strategic framing of gender issues and active leadership of
key actors.
Participatory Program Evaluation. The findings of the study determined that to ensure successful
implementation of GAD initiatives, the BCOW members emphasized the impact of participatory program
evaluation. This indicates that the BCOW members adopt a collaborative and responsive approach to navigate
the challenges in the implementation of GAD activities, empowerment programs, and livelihood trainings. This
finding confirms the study of Mbuvi and Gekara (2019) which identified the impact of monitoring and evaluation
planning and stakeholder participation as the critical factors that improve the performance of gender
mainstreaming activities. This finding resonates with the conclusion of Mollard et al. (2015) which underscored
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the effectivity of regular monitoring and evaluation over the project cycle in gender mainstreaming to determine
gaps and opportunities.
This finding also echoes the study of Barker et al. (2023) which reported about the possibility of responsive
feedback leading to timely intervention of changing conditions of the implementation which led to strategic
changes in the program that helped improve the community engagement and support of the project. In the same
way, Segone (2019) demonstrated that evaluation on gender-responsive activities is crucial to consider
interventions that would affect gender and power relations and determine structural causes of inequality and
discrimination. In addition to this, West et al. (2019) recommended the importance to conduct community interest
meetings in which prospective participants may ask questions, get acquainted with fellow individuals, and decide
if the activity is appropriate for their interests.
Resilient Leadership Commitment. Despite the challenges experienced during the implementation of GAD
initiatives, the BCOW members strongly reflected about commitment on resilient leadership. This signifies that
the BCOW members demonstrates emotional strength and a deep sense of responsibility in implementing GAD
activities, empowerment programs, and livelihood trainings successfully. This finding agrees to the study of
Ngubane et al. (2025) which showed that when facing with personal and systemic challenges, women leaders
are illustrative of resilience and persistence. Similarly, the result concurs with the study of Pillay-Naidoo and
Nel (2022) showed that resilient leadership in women facilitates persistent advocacy and effective program
execution.
This finding also echoes the study of Lwamba et al. (2022) which revealed that women's resilience enhances
through institutional and programmatic support combined with leadership development which facilitates
genderoutcome results. Likewise, Duchek et al. (2022) asserted that the resilience of women leaders occurs in
distinctive stages based on the personal, career, and contextual resources that help them to endure and guide them
to overcome gendered obstacles. Bridges et al. (2021) also added that resilience is part of what enables women
to thrive and maintain long-term in their careers.
Insights Shared by the Barangay Council of Women Members to the Academe and Community regarding
the Implementation of GAD Initiatives
This study carried out a broad-based analysis on the insights shared by the Barangay Council of Women members
in implementing Gender and Development initiatives. The following are the essential themes identified from the
participants in this study: Gender and Development is a knowledge-driven empowerment, inclusive Gender and
Development Leadership practice, Gender and Development promotes confidence through enterprise, Gender
and Development advances intergenerational gender awareness, and Gender and Development implementation
requires collaborative institutional support.
Gender and Development is a Knowledge-Driven Empowerment. The result of the study determined that GAD
initiatives contribute a huge impact on the lives of many particularly women in the community. This reflects how
BCOW members were empowered with GAD initiatives and how they harnessed their empowerment to
strengthen and uplift others. This finding agrees to the study of Yadav and Ojha (2024) which states that gender
and development initiative particularly gender sensitization, empowered women, combat discrimination
structures, and enhanced gender equality. This finding is in accordance with the study of Silor (2024) which
showed that upon the end of the training of gender responsive program, participants showed a dramatic increase
in confidence in their own leadership skills. The same author mentioned that responsibility and other important
traits were enhanced through the program.
In contrary, the result disconfirms the study of Indriyany et al. (2020) which revealed that despite the
implementation of gender-based development, there are women who are still subject to gender-based stereotypes
which continue to hinder their empowerment. In addition, Gil (2021) also observed that even with the efforts of
the school to put in place Gender and Development programs, gender discrimination and stereotyping still exist
which contribute to the difficulty of achieving empowerment. That is why Firdaus et al. (2024) emphasized that
Gender and Development initiatives like gender mainstreaming should aim to safeguard the protection of women
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by ensuring that their rights to growth, development, and active participation in accordance with human dignity
are guaranteed, while protecting them from economic and sexual exploitation.
The theory of Women Empowerment Framework proposed by Longwe (1995) guided the study in
contextualizing the finding through the levels of conscientization, mobilization, and control. Conscientization
level was reflected particularly on how GAD initiatives empowered the BCOW members, helping them realize
their potential to contribute in addressing various issues and needs of the women in the community. The
participation level was evident focusing on how these empowered BCOW members engaged in decision-making
specifically in contributing ideas and suggestions to effectively strengthen the implementation of GAD-related
activities, trainings, and livelihood programs. Finally, the control level was also demonstrated through the impact
of empowerment brought by GAD initiatives which influenced the perspectives of women in understating their
rights, power, and authority in making decisions.
Inclusive Gender and Development Leadership Practice. The finding of the study highlighted that the BCOW
members wanted to emphasize how inclusive leadership practice help them to successfully introduce GAD
initiatives. This highlights how GAD initiatives brought positive impact to leadership styles of BCOW members
in fostering collaborative leadership among women with differences in background, status, and experiences. This
is consistent with the study conducted by Kuteesa et al. (2024) which found that collaborative leadership fosters
a culture of inclusivity and flexibility alongside accelerating more innovation. The result also supports the finding
of the study conducted by Perry et al. (2020) which revealed that collaborative leaders are typically those leaders
that promote supportive environment where people feel more well-being and where equity exist.
This result also aligns with the study of Alang et al. (2022) which reflected that collaborative leadership played
a significant role in acknowledging and respecting the unique identity of people with different background by
giving them a strong voice in their work, valuing their contributions, and respecting their cultural differences.
Along with this, Smith (2025) implied that collaborative leadership is needed to drive gender equality in
organizations, particularly in creating environments that offer women equal opportunities. Similarly, Rami et al.
(2017) pointed out that community leaders serve as drivers of transformation in the community particularly in
social, economic, and cultural, influence the mindset of people specifically in rural areas.
Gender and Development Promotes Confidence Through Enterprise. The outcome of the study emphasized that
the BCOW members are empowered with GAD initiatives as they build confidence through enterprise. This
signifies that GAD initiatives empowered the BCOW members economically to become self-sustaining and
influential actors in community development. This result is in line with the evidence of Abukari et al. (2022)
which showed that undertaking training and income-generating activities related to Gender-based Initiatives
enhanced women's ability to participate in productive livelihoods, raising their economic independence and
selfconfidence. The finding reflects with the study of Jeeva et al. (2019) which emphasized that through
livelihood interventions in gender mainstreaming, women in the communities were empowered with basic
knowledge and leadership, allowing them to engage in sustainable income-generating activities.
This study reinforces the conclusion of Patil (2023) which showed that this development in entrepreneurship can
enable a woman to earn not only an income for her family but also achieve freedom of choice, build
selfconfidence and self-efficacy, educate her children, and transform her own life. Khatiwada et al. (2018)
reported that Gender and Development initiatives particularly gender mainstreaming is significant because it
stimulates inclusive economic growth where men and women shifted their livelihood activities away from just
subsistence to generating incomes. Further, Mushumba and Mulyungi (2020) agreed to the statement by
highlighting that GAD initiatives have improved livelihood of women considerably.
Gender and Development Advances Intergenerational Gender Awareness. The result of the study identified that
the BCOW members highlighted the importance of how GAD initiatives raise intergenerational awareness. This
conveys that the BCOW members have internalized and applied GAD principles to influence positive change at
home and in the community. This finding aligns with the study of Azzahra et al. (2024) which highlighted the
impact of Gender and Development that help parents in educating gender equality to raise consciousness of
children particularly on their rights and defied classical gender stereotypes. This observation echoes the work of
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Rahma et al. (2020) which demonstrated that an initiative particularly gender awareness education shapes and
reinforces the thinking, attitudes, and action of families towards the promotion of justice, equality, and equitable
relationships between men and women.
This supports the conclusion drawn by the study of Moura and Goncalves (2023) which illustrated that by means
of education, gender-sensitive programs seek to provide people with the knowledge and ability to challenge and
overcome the gender stereotypes and their negative implications. Encouragement of gender equality at a young
age will help instill values of respect, compassion, and justice in the younger generation. As a complement to
this, Gazta (2022) expressed that by means of Gender and Development intervention initiatives, children's
knowledge, attitudes, and behaviors can be influenced to promote and attain gender equity. Emfimo et al. (2024)
also noted that incorporating the values of gender education, long-standing prejudices are dismantled that clears
the path for the future where discriminatory behaviors do not exist.
Gender and Development implementation requires collaborative institutional support. The result of the study
stressed that the BCOW members highlighted the need for collaborative institutional support in implementing
GAD initiatives. This means that collective effort among various organizations played a significant role which
enhances the capacity of BCOW members to successfully implement GAD initiatives. This finding is in line
with the research conducted by Brion and Reginaldo (2021) which indicated that with clearly defined policies
and strong organizational support, a number of programs were effectively implemented to promote and safeguard
the rights and well-being of women. This evidence relates to the finding of the study of Steccolini (2019) which
presented those additional efforts are needed for it to be totally institutionalized. The commitment of practitioners
and policymakers are vital.
In contrary, the finding of the study of Hidayahtulloh and Hutami (2019) highlighted that there is limited
partnership among government, civil society, and private sector, but progress in adopting gender mainstreaming
policies can still be seen. Meanwhile, Albaladejo (2016) stated that one of the barriers that hinder the successful
implementation of Gender and Development is the limited collaboration of institutions on Gender and
Development-related activities. Thus, Abnory et al. (2024) elaborated that improvement of collaborative support
is a critical strategy in the establishment of resilient gender-sensitive systems that support the active participation
of women in different sectors.
CONCLUSION
This study explored and understand the lived experiences, coping mechanisms, and insights of Barangay Council
of Women members in implementing Gender and Development initiatives. The findings revealed that despite
successful implementation, challenges continue to limit the effectivity of Gender and Development activities,
trainings, and livelihood programs introduced at the barangay level. Through adaptive strategies and approaches,
the BCOW members were able to sustain the implementation to help women become aware of their rights,
achieve equality, and develop empowerment.
The findings of the study also highlighted the importance of resilience in times of struggles and hardships, which
motivated the BCOW members in performing their duties and responsibilities. Behind challenges, these women
still found fulfillment in serving the community. The finding showed that women persevere and do not easily
give up.
Ultimately, the study contributed in-depth understanding how Gender and Development initiatives brought
significant change to the lives of many, particularly, the women in the community. It is evident that these
initiatives empower women in so many ways, thus, the study emphasized the need for collaborative support from
various institutions, organizations, and government agencies. Further, the study concluded that the attainment of
women empowerment and gender equality becomes more feasible when GAD initiatives are adequately
supported and maintained.
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