The Sanggunian Bayan of Lantawan passed the Gender Equality and Development (GEAD) code of Lantawan last March 2018 during the regular session at Session Hall, Atong-Atong, Lantawan, Basilan Province.

The municipal government needed to establish a GEAD code. This is for the Women and Men equally contributing and benefiting from development. The GEAD is about removing explicit, implicit, actual and potential gender biases within organizations programs, projects and activities of those who are concerned with development. This ensures that gender perspective is mainstreamed and sustained in the municipality mandates and regular programs.

Mayor Rustam M. Ismael believes that everyone has inherent worth and dignity, and fundamental human rights. As such, shall be treated with respect and non-discrimination.

Consequently, as a landmark code, it serve as a valuable precedent that has finally championed the causes specifically aimed to uplift women not only in the municipal level but globally.

This code shall take effect upon compliance with the mandatory posting and publications requirements under Republic Act No. 7160, otherwise known as the Local Government Code of 1991.