Gender Participation in the Management of MT. Calavite Wildlife Sanctuary and Mt. Arayat Protected Landscape in the Philippines

Jonnel GUTIERREZ; Aida D. L.  ESCULTOR; Moesa C. Dela  CRUZ; Jay  Mark G.  CORTADO

doi:10.38142/ijesss.v6i5.1471

Authors

Jonnel GUTIERREZ National Grid Corporation of the Philippines – Mexico, Pampanga 2021, Philippines
Aida D. L. ESCULTOR Philippine Coconut Authority- Mindoro Provinces, Calapan City, Oriental Mindoro 5200, Philippines
Moesa C. Dela CRUZ Occidental Mindoro State College- Murtha Campus, San Jose, Occidental Mindoro 5100, Philippines
Jay Mark G. CORTADO College of Agroforestry and Forestry, Don Mariano Marcos Memorial State University, Bacnotan, La Union 2515, Philippines

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.38142/ijesss.v6i5.1471

Keywords:

Gender and development, gender equity, protected area management

Abstract

This study examines the gender responsiveness of management practices in two Protected Areas (PAs) in Luzon, Philippines: Mt. Calavite Wildlife Sanctuary (MCWS) and Mt. Arayat Protected Landscape (MAPL). Using a descriptive-quantitative approach, data were gathered through surveys and external assessments to evaluate the gender sensitivity of Protected Area Management Plans (PAMPs), staff composition, and gender-related initiatives. Findings reveal that although both PAs are rated as gender-aware in their PAMPs, gender imbalances persist in staffing, particularly in roles such as Forest Rangers, Information Officers, and Forest Attendants, which are occupied exclusively by one gender. Operational gaps were noted despite gender-responsive plans, especially in MAPL, where some staff believe men are not adequately informed about Republic Act No. 9710 (Magna Carta of Women), indicating a need for training. Funding limitations were also found to hinder the implementation of women-empowerment programs. The study recommends developing policies to eliminate gender bias in job assignments and promoting equal participation of all genders in PA management. Bridging the gap between planning and practice is essential to achieving inclusive, equitable, and sustainable conservation outcomes.

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