By Kenneth Marcos 
In a remote village where coconut farmers toil under the hot sun, women and men share equal hopes for a better future. This hope is strengthened by the Philippine Coconut Authority’s (PCA) strong commitment to gender equality and women’s empowerment.
The PCA has been recognized by the Philippine Commission on Women (PCW) for its outstanding use of the 2024 Gender and Development (GAD) budget. The agency ranked 9th among government-owned and controlled corporations (GOCCs) for the highest client-focused GAD budget allocation. It also secured 7th place for the highest organization-focused GAD budget allocation.
These awards reflect the PCA’s dedicated efforts to promote fairness and equal opportunities within the coconut industry. Under the leadership of Administrator and CEO Dr. Dexter R. Buted, the PCA has worked hard to create a workplace where both women and men can thrive. The agency also supports coconut farmers—especially women—helping them play a stronger role in building a more inclusive and resilient sector.
The PCA’s gender-responsive programs aim to empower women workers and farmers through training, support services, and policies that recognize their vital contributions. This approach not only improves the lives of individuals but also strengthens the entire coconut community.
By advancing gender equality, the PCA helps ensure that development in the coconut industry benefits everyone. Their success serves as a model for other government agencies and industries seeking to build a fairer future.
Together, the PCA team continues to rise and empower, showing how thoughtful use of resources can lead to meaningful change for Filipino farmers and workers.
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