A total of 20 fellows from various sectors completed the Gender Analysis of Violence and Security (GAVS): Theory, Research, and Practice—a short course organized by the Philippine Center of Excellence in Defense, Development, and Security (PCEDS) of the National Defense College of the Philippines (NDCP) and the Women and Gender Institute (WAGI) of Miriam College from 13 to 15 December 2022 at the NDCP Honor Hall and via Zoom Teleconferencing.

Delivered by practitioners and scholars in the field of gender studies, security studies, peace, and human rights, GAVS provided the knowledge and skills for successful gender analysis and mainstreaming in the security sector—giving fellows a comprehensive overview of the gender approach to security, with a focus on theory, research, and practice.

In her opening remarks, Ms Melanie Reyes, DSD, Executive Director of WAGI, explained that the content and learning activities of GAVS were designed to advance the knowledge of feminist approaches to security studies.

Meanwhile, LtGen Ferdinand M Cartujano PAF(Ret), President of the NDCP, concluded the program, underscoring the need to continue working to determine and fill the gaps in theories, research, and practices in the field of gender, peace, and security. He also thanked WAGI for continuously collaborating with the NDCP in expanding capacity-building efforts.

Majority of fellows of the latest iteration of the short course came from various government agencies, including the departments of National Defense and Education, as well as the Armed Forces of the Philippines. Meanwhile, the other participants were from the academe, private sector, and civil society organizations.