The New Taipei City Government engaged in an exchange with the delegation from Catbalogan City, Philippines, yesterday (26th) focusing local government practices in achieving the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

Catbalogan City, a member of the United Cities and Local Governments Asia-Pacific (UCLG ASPAC) and also the vice chair of the Standing Committee on Gender Equality, is dedicated to integrating a gender perspective into various local development initiatives. New Taipei City has been actively participating in UCLG ASPAC events and implementing influential gender projects. This year, it stands as the sole city representative from the Asia-Pacific region at the CSW68 UCLG Local and Regional Governments’ Day, aiming to enhance its international visibility and impact.



The two parties exchanged on gender equality policies, with Yao Ching-Yu, the Director-general of the New Taipei City Government Secretariat, opening the discussion. Chen Jia-qi, Chief of the General Planning Division of the Social Welfare Department, and Councilor Samantha Tai shared their experiences from participating in the NGO CSW68 Forum from March 10 to March 22. Councilor Stephany Uy-Tan of Catbalogan City discussed the recent MOVE project (Men Opposed to Violence against Women and Children), focusing on engaging men in the United Nations campaign "Violence against Women and Children (VAW-C)" and promoting knowledge on reducing violence against women within organizations and communities. Mayor Dexter M. Uy of Catbalogan City expressed his full support, with an aim of achieving the Philippines' national policy goal of "Zero Violence Against Women."




The exchange continued with a tour of the gender-friendly restroom led by Chen Yi, the President of the Friendly-to-All Co-Parenting Organization. Both parties shared experiences in implementing gender equality and SDGs policies, aspiring towards a sustainable and prosperous urban future.