The Department of National Defense (DND) and its attached agencies have declared that it is fully gender equal and compliant, as the agency strengthened its push for more inclusive and responsive workplace policies.
Defense Secretary Gilberto Teodoro Jr. said the DND made the declaration during the agency-wide seminar titled “Advancing Gender-Inclusive Protection: Strengthening Laws and Policy for All” held on June 5, 2026 at Camp General Emilio Aguinaldo in Quezon City.
“On this day, which is June 5, I will declare that the Department of National Defense and all attached agencies are fully gender equal and compliant,” Teodoro said.
The Defense chief also reaffirmed the department’s commitment to pursue broader and more creative Gender and Development (GAD) initiatives beyond basic compliance.
Among the planned programs are supervised socialization activities, gender-responsive health interventions, mental health and wellness initiatives, retirement transition counseling, and information campaigns on age-related health concerns.
Teodoro said he hopes other government agencies will adopt similarly practical and innovative GAD programs that promote the welfare, professional growth, and overall well-being of their personnel.
Retired Supreme Court Associate Justice Angelina Sandoval-Gutierrez, who served as guest speaker, stressed the need to strengthen legal protection not only for women, but also for men and members of the LGBTQIA+ community who face abuse, discrimination, and stigma.
She also emphasized the importance of shared responsibility, mutual respect, and equal dignity regardless of gender or identity.
During the open forum, participants raised questions on current gender-related issues and sought clarification on existing GAD laws and policies.
The seminar was attended by DND senior officials, employees, and personnel from attached agencies, both on-site and through video conference. The activity highlighted the department’s effort to promote a more inclusive workplace and recognize the active role of all genders in building a fairer society.