SIBAT Evaluates CBRES Projects Focused on Gender

Having completed its technical evaluation of ten (10) microhydro projects in 2005, SIBAT currently undertakes another round of evaluation focusing on mainstreaming gender in its community-based renewable systems (CBRES).

Four (4) microhydro projects in Luzon are currently being evaluated to generate gender baseline and highlight specific impacts on gender and lessons on project sustainability. The sites include Sitio Buneg, Bgy. Nabuangan, Conner, Apayao; Bgy. Lon-oy, San Gabriel, La Union; Sitio Caguyen, Bgy. Cauayan, Baay-Licuan, Abra; and Bgy. Kimbutan, Dupax Sur, Nueva Viscaya.

The gender research activity is a joint collaboration between SIBAT, ENERGIA and the University of the Philippines, College of Social Science in Baguio (UPCB). The UPCB is tasked to developing the research design and instruments. A separate institutional gender audit on SIBAT's major programs will be conducted early October to formulate a common gender framework or action plan for the institution.

Gender mainstreaming in CBRES projects is basically aimed at promoting gender equality and women empowerment by improving women's productivity and income through the provision of energy access and opportunities for income generation. Similarly, this ensures project efficiency and sustainability for CBRES projects by improving quality of life in the community and by understanding men and women's needs in proper perspective.