DOLE Region 6 revives GAD-MOVE anti-violence drive

The Department of Labor and Employment Regional Office 6 revitalized its Gender and Development–Men Oppose Violence Everywhere, or GAD-MOVE, to strengthen men’s involvement in eliminating violence against women and children and to promote a culture of respect and equality.

DOLE-6 reconstituted the group during the Strengthening Gender Mainstreaming: GAD Focal Persons and Focal Point System activity held Feb. 20, 2026, at the DOLE Regional Office conference room.

Joshia John P. Andrino, the newly elected DOLE Region 6 MOVE chapter president, urged co-workers to be protectors of women’s and children’s rights and to help spread the advocacy in their communities.

Elected officers include Russel Marc T. Agulay as vice president, John P. Mandario as secretary, Phillip John C. Gealon as treasurer, Salvador C. Ecube as auditor, and Ryan Alfie S. Araneta as public information officer.

Assistant Regional Director Melisa S. Navarra called for stronger male involvement in preventing violence in workplaces and communities.

“We expect you to lead in promoting the rights of women and children and in protecting them against violence,” Navarra said.

“Take an extra step and go beyond the workplaces; working against violence is our moral obligation to humanity,” she added.

Meeting participants also reviewed and adopted the DOLE Region 6 MOVE chapter constitution and bylaws.

GAD Regional Focal Glen Mar C. Padios presented the office’s 2025 GAD accomplishments and outlined next steps for 2026.

GAD-MOVE is a workplace-based initiative that mobilizes men as advocates and allies in preventing gender-based violence and supporting programs that advance gender equality.