To further disseminate vital legislative updates and promote participatory governance in Butuan City, the Sangguniang Panlungsod (SP) of Butuan City successfully conducted its quarterly initiative "SPEAKS" last August 8, 2024, at the SM City Butuan Event Center. The second edition of SPEAKS focused on the Smart Eco GAD (Gender and Development) Code, which brought together City Council Members, Department Heads, Barangay Captains, representatives from sectoral groups, the academe, and student leaders from across Butuan City. City Councilor Cherry Busa, the principal author of the Code, led the discussions on the Smart Eco GAD Code, a pioneering piece of legislation aimed at promoting gender equality and sustainable development in the city. She was joined by a panel of experts including Mr. Rosalito Libres from the City Education Development Department (CEDD), Atty. Shiela Emata from the City Social Welfare Department (CSWD), Atty. Clark Lim from the Legal Research and Development Division, and Ms. Nelsa Auron from the Public Information Division (PID). Each speaker provided in-depth insights into the Code's key provisions and its potential impact on the city's social and environmental landscape. The Smart Eco GAD Code is designed to address a wide range of issues, including gender-based discrimination and violence, environmental sustainability, and the promotion of equitable opportunities for all citizens. The Code introduces innovative measures aimed at integrating gender perspectives into local governance and development planning, while also promoting eco-friendly practices across various sectors. "Human Capital is very important and in order to maximize human capital, wala dapat ang gender biases," City Vice Mayor Lawrence Fortun said on his closing remarks. "Wala jud prejudices about gender and preferences kay humans mani sila tanan, so that's the importance aning Gender and Development," Fortun added. Looking ahead, SP Butuan plans to continue its SPEAKS initiative, with future events set to focus on other key legislative issues. The aim is to ensure that Butuanons remain informed and involved in the governance process.