ISSN: 2782-893X
eISSN: 2799-0664
ISSN: 2782- 893X
— This study analyzed the state of gender mainstreaming in the Department of Education (DepEd) Central Luzon and its implications for fostering inclusivity and equity in public administration. Utilizing a quantitative correlational research design and total enumeration sampling, the research engaged 230 respondents from the Gender and Development Focal Point System (GFPS). The study aimed to analyze the demographic profile of respondents, evaluate the level of gender mainstreaming, and explore the relationship between gender mainstreaming and variables such as gender, position, age, salary, years of involvement, training attendance, educational attainment, and recognitions received. It also sought to identify challenges, document best practices, and propose actionable solutions. By employing survey questionnaires, interviews, and documentary analysis, the research provides a comprehensive understanding of the effectiveness of GAD initiatives within DepEd. The findings revealed that the overall gender mainstreaming score for DepEd was 58.23, classified as Level 2: Installation of Strategic Mechanism, with the Enabling Mechanisms sublevel reaching Level 3: GAD Application. The analysis highlighted that training attendance had a strong positive correlation with all sublevels of gender mainstreaming, while weak correlations were observed between gender and these sublevels. Specific variables such as age, position, and salary demonstrated varying degrees of association with specific aspects of gender mainstreaming. Challenges identified included underutilized GAD funds, inadequate tools for budget attribution, insufficient advocacy efforts, poor coordination among stakeholders, and the absence of genderdisaggregated data. Despite these issues, DepEd exhibited best practices in capacity building, planning, budgeting, implementation, and evaluation, which formed the foundation for the crafted GAD agenda. Based on the findings, the study recommends the continuous implementation and refinement of the crafted GAD agenda aligned with the Philippine Commission on Women (PCW) guidelines to address identified challenges. Strengthening training programs is essential to enhance the understanding and application of GAD concepts, especially among higher-level officials. Advocacy and awareness campaigns should be intensified to promote gender equality within the organization and among stakeholders.