THE EASTERN Mindanao Command (EastMinCom) inaugurated its new Gender and Development (GAD) Office and a water refilling station on Aug. 27.
Lt. Gen. Luis Rex D. Bergante, EastMinCom chief, led the blessing and ribbon-cutting ceremony as a pre-anniversary activity at its headquarters.
The establishment of the GAD Office aligns with the Magna Carta of Women (Republic Act No. 9710), a key legal framework promoting women’s rights and empowerment.
The new office will be instrumental in integrating gender-sensitive programs and policies into the command’s operations, ensuring the concerns of women are addressed and their roles are empowered within the organization.
Complementing this initiative is the newly built water refilling station, a donation from Laak, Davao de Oro Mayor Mark Anthony “Honeyboy” S. Libuangan.
This facility aims to enhance the well-being of EastMinCom personnel by providing a reliable source of safe drinking water. It also contributes to environmental sustainability by reducing plastic waste and offers long-term cost savings for the command.
In his address, Bergante highlighted the collaborative spirit behind these projects. “These projects are the product of collective effort, collaboration, and the unwavering commitment of individuals who worked tirelessly to turn vision into reality,” he stated.
He underscored how the new facilities are a testament to EastMinCom’s commitment to advancing the welfare of its personnel and promoting a more equitable and sustainable future for the organization.
Photo courtesy of EastMinCom