By Crisdeniele Clemente 

Ms. Nataliza A. Llapitan, chief of the MMSU Gender and Development Focal Point System (GFPS) has been conferred as a member of the Philippine Commission on Women's (PCW) National GAD Resource Pool (NGRP) Batch 9. The conferment was held during the 7th General Assembly of the National GAD Pool Philippines, held from December 3–5, 2024, at Park Inn by Radisson, Pampanga.

The GAD Resource Pool is a vital support network that provides technical assistance for gender and development (GAD) initiatives, conducts gender-focused research, and monitors and evaluates GAD programs nationwide.

Ms. Llapitan is one of only 32 successful candidates selected from over 100 applicants across the country. As part of her certification, she signed a partnership agreement with the PCW, pledging to deliver technical assistance to non-government organizations, local government units, and other requesting entities. Her responsibilities include evaluating services using prescribed NGRP forms, contributing to updates of the GAD Resource Pool Handbook, and sharing resources such as studies, tools, and innovative approaches on GAD with fellow members. Her office is currently spearheading the 18-day campaign to end violence against women and children in the university. 

MMSU OIC-President Prima Fe R. Franco praised Ms. Llapitan’s achievement, saying, "This is a proud moment for women and GAD advocates who are tirelessly promoting gender equality. May we continue to work together to inspire positive change, build inclusive communities, and make a real difference in the lives of those we serve."

Since its establishment in 2014, the National GAD Resource Pool has grown into a thriving community of gender and development experts. It continues to play a crucial role in supporting the PCW by providing technical expertise to national and local government agencies.