Regional Development Updates | Volume 20 No. 3 | July to September 2022

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

Teresita Socorro C. Ramos

EXECUTIVE EDITOR

Carmel P. Matabang

ASSOCIATE EDITOR

Ma. Lulu E. Valencia

CONTRIBUTING EDITORS

Romel Patrick E. Tanghal

Guillermo R. Manrique, Jr.

Desiree T. Jacinto

Sandra J. Alido

RDU COORDINATORS/WRITERS

Michael BJ S. Abellana

Eden F. Ridao

Annie C. Deputado

Evie A. Cabulanan

Aurel Raymund P. Betque

Melissa Gabrielle H. Vargas

Ruby Abegail C. Serrano

Rebecca Ruth R. Salas-Simtim

Charmaine Lou M. Vilches

John Dasser Niervo Dulin

Kenth L. Dela Cruz

LAYOUT ARTISTS

Apollo Y. Manlawe

Melissa Gabrielle H. Vargas Dayle Lois D. Tulang

CIRCULATION MANAGER

Apollo Y. Manlawe

CONTRIBUTORS

Gwyneth Grace B. Collado | Myra L. Sajo

Diana Grace Villegas | PHIC XII

POPCOM XII | USM | CENRO Banga

PENRO Sarangani | DENR XII

MinDA | DILG XII | DA RAFIS XII

The Regional Development Updates (RDU) is published quarterly by Regional Development Council (RDC) XII with editorial office at National Economic and Development Authority Regional Office XII, Prime Regional Government Center, Purok Mabuhay, Carpenter Hill, Koronadal City, South Cotabato, with Telephone No. (083) 877-3588 and Fax No. (083) 228-9203. The Editorial Board reserves the right to edit the manuscript for reasons of space and clarity. RDU assumes no responsibility on unpublished and unsolicited materials.

HOW TO REACH US

Do you have questions, comments or suggestions? Send your letters with complete name and address to our editorial office mentioned above, or email us at nedaxii@nro12.neda.gov.ph or nro12@neda.gov.ph.

Rehiyon Dose celebrates

‘Mabulawanong’ RDC Week 2022

By: Melissa Gabrielle H. Vargas, NEDA XII

City of Koronadal, South Cotabato - Regional Development Council XII celebrated the 2022 RDC Week on September 28-29, 2022, to commemorate the golden anniversary of the creation of RDCs in the country with several activities that included a grand parade of floats, motorcade, sports competition for various games capped by a Grand RDC Night.

“Mabulawanon”, meaning “golden”, this year’s celebration bannered the theme “Mabulawanong RDC Dose: Celebrating 50 years of regional development”. The Council had a two-day face-to-face celebration which kicked-off with a grand parade of floats and motorcade of the four sectoral committees: InfraCom XII, RSDC XII, EDC XII, and MEDAFC XII.

The Opening Ceremony was graced by the mayor of the host cityHon. Eliordo U. Ogena of the City of Koronadal. In his message, he emphasized that the presence of regional line agencies in Koronadal City has greatly contributed to the locality’s development. As the regional center, Mayor Ogena assured the member-agencies that the city government will continue to propose and implement programs and projects that will provide an enabling environment to better served its constituents.

RDC XII Acting Chairperson RD Teresita Socorro C. Ramos of NEDA XII welcomed all the participants and thanked everyone for their support and active commitment to the activities of the Council. She also underscored what the ‘phoenix’ – the 2022 RDC Week logo – symbolizes. “Like the phoenix, we rose from the ashes of COVID; despite the problems of peace and security, and even poverty, regional development took place in SOCCKSARGEN region, that’s why after 50 years, we are standing strong”,

the Director said.

The four sectoral committees competed on various events and activities, which resulted to the following winners: MEDAFC as champion for Basketball, RDC Got Talent, Quiz Bowl, and Logomaking; INFRACOM as champion for Volleyball, Float Competition, and Poster-making, and RSDC as champion for Float Competition, and Bowling.

This year’s overall champion is MEDAFC XII which garnered a total of 146 points. This was followed by INFRACOM XII with 133 points, RSDC XII with 131 points, and EDC XII with 90 points.

The celebration was capped by the RDC Grand Night dubbed as “Bulawan”. The said activity was graced by Honorable Governor Emmylou “Lala” Talino-Mendoza of the Province of Cotabato, Honorable Governor Reynaldo S. Tamayo, Jr. of the Province of South Cotabato, regional directors of regional line agencies, private sector representatives, and other guests. In her message, Gov. Mendoza recalled how the empire province

of Cotabato – a former single large province - was established into a region, and stressed on RDC’s role in steering good governance and regional development. On the other hand, South Cotabato Governor Tamayo, in his message, also emphasized the importance of cooperation among local governments and the Council to lobby and push for programs and projects that are advantageous to the region. To close the event, the participants joined the Secretariat in a mob dance of the SOCCSKSARGEN AmBisyon Natin 2040 Song.

The celebration of the RDC Week is by virtue of Proclamation No. 1164 issued on February 24, 1998, declaring every fourth week of September of every year as Regional Development Councils’ Week in commemoration of the birth of the RDC as the key structure for regional planning and integrated local planning and programming.

EDITORIAL Rising from the ashes

This year marks the 50th founding anniversary of the highest policy-making body in the region, the Regional Development Council.

Letter of Implementation No. 22, s. of 1972 signed by then President Ferdinand E. Marcos paved the way for the establishment of the Council. Since then, RDCs have coordinated and harmonized development plans and set up policies for the benefit of the regions.

To celebrate this milestone, RDC XII adopted the theme, Mabulawanong RDC Dose: Celeberating 50 years of

Regional Development.

The Council chose a phoenix as the logo for this extraordinary event. Legend tells that a phoenix has the ability to be reborn from its own ashes.

All throughout the 50 years, SOCCSKSARGEN has been through ups and downs. But we made it through as one united Council with the help and support of the four sectoral and several affiliate committees. Like the phoenix, we have risen up from the ashes, especially from the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Ming-Dao Deng, author and philosopher said, “Whether we remain the ash or become the phoenix is up to us.”

As the resilient and united Regional Development of SOCCSKSARGEN, we chose to become the phoenix and to rise together.

Challenges may come and try the resilience of the Region, but as the united people that we are, we are confident that we will continue to surpass all of them. That is who we are, the phoenix region of SOCCKSARGEN. We shall continue to RISE together.

RISE SOCCSKSARGEN!

TERESITA SOCORRO C. RAMOS Acting Chairperson, RDC XII and Regional Director, NEDA XII

Konsulta providers receive recognition from PhilHealth XII

By: Hannah G. Naaep, PHIC XII

For adopting PhilHealth’s KonSulta (Konsultasyong Sulit at Tama), 37 accredited KONSULTA providers (KPs) in SOCSKSSARGEN Region recently received Plaques of Recognition from PhilHealth XII in the City of Koronadal.

Seventeen are under LHIO Gen. Santos: the Rural Health Units (RHUs) of Polomolok, Apopong, Baluan, Bula, Calumpang, Fatima, Labangal, Tambler, West, Alabel, Glan, Malapatan, Malungon including Howard Hubbard Hospital, Sarangani Provincial Hospital, St. Elizabeth Hospital, Inc. and St. Elizabeth Hospital-Alabel Satellite Clinic.

Eight of them are under the Local Health Insurance Office (LHIO) Koronadal: the Rural Health Units of Banga, Surallah, Norala, Lake Sebu, Sto Niño, Lake Sebu, T’boli and Tupi with the South Cotabato Provincial Hospital.

Seven are under LHIO Kidapawan: RHUs of Carmen and Makilala with Kidapawan City Health Office including the CEM Medical Specialist Hospital, Kidapawan City Hospital, Midsayap Diagnostic Center and Hospital, Inc. and Makilala Medical Specialists Hospital, Inc.

Five are under LHIO Isulan: RHUs of Bagumbayan and Esperanza with Tacurong City Health Office including Sultan Kudarat District Hospital and Tomboc-Salayog

PhilHealth XII also distributed three Plaques of Recognition to RHU Polomolok for being the first health care facility to be accredited as KONSULTA provider in the Region; RHU Sto Niño for having the highest number of first patient encounter and RHU Surallah for having the highest percentage (61%) of registered beneficiaries from its

committed patient load.

PhilHealth XII Regional Vice President, Dr. Hector Zenon Leonardo P. Malate said that the nature and sources of primary health care are somewhat inadequate, imperfect but not hopeless.

“We need to strike the balance between the public’s quality of life and the connectivity to primary health care anywhere in the Philippines. By supporting the KONSULTA program, we will also be supporting better quality of life for Filipinos,” Malate added.

In conclusion, he challenged the participants to synchronize their efforts across all levels and policy domains to empower each one of us in the coming years.

USM establishes lone law school in Cotabato Province

By: Ronel A. Naringahon, USM

Kidapawan City, Cotabato Province - As an institution upholding social reform and human rights, the University of Southern Mindanao (USM) offers the Juris Doctor degree starting this year. Currently, it is the sole law school in Cotabato Province. The newly established College of Law is under the supervision of Dean Freddie H. Baynosa II, LLM. It officially started its classes on September 12, 2022, at USMKidapawan City campus, with 79 enrollees.

It has 13 pioneering faculty members, namely: Judge Arvin Sadiri Balagot, CPA; Judge Eugene David Tancinco; City Councilor (Ret. Judge) Francis Palmones Jr.; Ret. City Prosecutor Melvin A. Lamata; Commission on Bar Discipline (CBD) Commissioner Atty. Vicente Andiano; CBD Commissioner Atty. Emma FerenalAndiano; Atty. Regerick Benito, LLM;

Prosecutor Christ May V. Andolana; Public Atty. Noreen MaglunsodNapoles, CPA, LLM; Atty. Jessa Ela Velarde; Public Atty. Karen Mae M. Maliones; Atty. Esther JalandoniDumagan; and Public Atty. Erwin A. Valenzuela, LPT, MPA.

The University was able to secure a government permit of authority to operate the Law Program under Republic Act No. 7662, entitled the “Legal Education Reform Act of 1993,” under Legal Education Board (LEB) Resolution No. 176-07 on July 29, 2022.

The LEB examined the Juris Doctor Program of the University on July 11, 2022 to evaluate its readiness.

Headed by LEB’s Chief Operating Officer, Atty. Aaron Marc M. Dimaano, the Board conducted the inspection and validation process of the said program. After thorough

evaluation of the documents and the facilities, the Board found the Law program to have successfully complied with all the requirements to operate its law school.

The North Cotabato Chapter of the Integrated Bar of the Philippines, through its President, Atty. Vicente C. Andiano, manifested its support to USM for offering the program since Cotabato Province currently has no established law school. Following the directives of the Philippine Supreme Court, LEB, and in consonance with the vision of USM’s founder, Bai Hadja Fatima Matabay N. Plang, the College of Law commits to produce graduates who can make it in the bar exams and eventually serve their communities with honor.

POPCOM launches AHDSLM, forges partnership with DepEd XII

By: Fitzgerald J. Carmona, POPCOM XII

Koronadal City, South Cotabato

- Commission on Population and Development (POPCOM) XII and Department of Education XII officially launched the Adolescent Health and Development SelfLearning Modules (AHD-SLMs) and renewed their partnership through the ceremonial signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) on August 09, 2022 at Cinco Ninas, City of Koronadal.

In her opening message, POPCOM XII Regional Director Desiree Concepcion Garganian discussed the pressing issue on adolescent health and development that needs to be collectively addressed, which is teenage pregnancy. She further cited that recent studies show that Filipina girls who give birth in their teenage years—many as young as 10 years old, stand to lose more socio-economic opportunities later in life because they are likely not to finish their education, will not land good jobs, will not be able to save and will have little to no contribution to the overall income of their families.

“Consequently, these young girls will

not be able to contribute much to the development of their communities.

On a larger scale, if left unattended, the large potential of young women’s contribution to society will not be realized. All in all, this does little to support the government’s anti-poverty drive and the country’s contribution to the realization of the SDG goal of eradicating poverty by 2030”, Director Garganian stressed.

Director Garganian also called on DepEd and other local program partners, to continue working synergistically in raising empowered and resilient young Filipinos. “We want to see them overcome their challenges, prosper in their chosen paths and most of all take their share in the socioeconomic fruits of progress”, she added.

Meanwhile, DepEd XII Director Dr. Carlito Rocafort applauded the initiative of the people behind both agencies in developing the AHD-SLMs and congratulated all the stakeholders behind the project, the students, teachers, and the program partners. He further stressed that the impact of these modules to the learners is immeasurable. And that despite all the

challenges and controversies of the subject matter that is embodied these modules, DepEd has labored towards a strong bond of partnership, in the pursuit of delivering basic quality education in the SOCCSKSARGEN region.

In support of the Department of Education’s Comprehensive Sexuality Education program implementation, the AHD-SLMs of POPCOM XII aim to provide information among adolescents and young people on the key concepts and messages of selected sexuality and reproductive health related topics such as puberty and adolescence, developmental tasks, and teen pregnancy prevention. It further aims to encourage adolescents to practice positive health seeking behavior and promote their total well-being.

As part of the next steps, POPCOM XII distributed a total of 3,600 copies of these SLMs to the selected schools from the eight Schools Division Offices in Region XII. These SLMs will also be uploaded into a website for use by schools in the SOCCSKSARGEN region.

RSC-SOV XII launches Search for Outstanding Volunteer 2022

By: Evie A. Cabulanan, NEDA XII

Koronadal City, South Cotabato – The Regional Search Committee (RSC) XII launched the annual Search for Outstanding Volunteer (SOV) during its first meeting on August 9, 2022 with an announcement that National Economic and development Authority (NEDA) XII as the secretariat of the RSC was already accepting nominations for the three categories namely, individual (youth and adult), organization (non profit or corporate) and special award for LGUs. During the same meeting, RSC also adopted the guidelines for the search, and the work plan for the SOV that will culminate in with the awarding of the winners during the National Volunteer Month in December 2022.

NEDA XII Regional Director Teresita Socorro C. Ramos and Chairperson of the RSC-SOV XII convened the Committee attended by its members from the Philippine Information Agency (PIA), Civil Service Commission (CSC), Commission on Higher Education (CHED), Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG), Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) and Private Sector Representative

Jose Ronie V. Mondragon.

The Committee also announced the eligibility requirements for nomination. Under the youth category, he or she must be 18 to 30 years old while for adult category, he or she must be at least 31 years old at the time of submission of nomination. Organizations must have provided volunteer assistance consistently and continuously for the last five years and must be registered with Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) or other duly recognized accrediting government institution. Meanwhile, LGUs should have been implementing volunteer program in local governance for at least four years. Nomination can be done either by another individual, organization or through selfnomination.

It was also announced during the meeting that nomination forms may be downloaded at www.pnvsca.gov.ph or to contact NEDA XII at (083) 228 9203 or email them at nedaxii@nro12.neda.gov. ph or drd@nro12.neda.gov.ph for more information. The nomination forms may be submitted via the same email addresses or personally delivered to NEDA XII Regional Office on or before September 15.

Presidential Proclamation No. 55, s.1998 mandates the annual celebration of the National Volunteer Month. This is in recognition of outstanding volunteer work of Filipino volunteers and organizations for their exemplary performance and achievement in empowering communities and promoting volunteerism contributing to nation-building.

SOX PAMBs convene for 3rd Regional Summit

General Santos City - The five Protected Area Management Boards (PAMBs) convened for the 3rd Regional PAMB Summit on September 14, 2022 in General Santos City. The said PAMBs represent the five protected areas in the region namely: (1) Mt. Apo Natural Park (MANP), (2) Sarangani Bay Protected Seascape (SBPS), (3) Allah Valley Watershed Forest Reserve (AVWFR), (4) Libungan River Watershed Forest Reserve (LRWFR), and (5) Mt. Matutum Protected Landscape (MMPL).

With the theme “Protected Areas Management Innovations Towards Sustainability,” the summit served as the venue to gain support from the PAMB members and stakeholders in implementing the various programs, projects, and innovative interventions for the protected areas (PAs), as well as the enforcement of environmental laws, especially the Expanded National Integrated Protected Areas System Act of 2018.

Gracing the said event was Department of Environment

and Natural Resources (DENR) Undersecretary for Field Operations-Mindanao Joselin Marcus E. Fragada, CESO III. He emphasized in his message that the preservation of environment is synonymous to the preservation of human life. “We need to make sure that we leave something for the next generations,” he said.

During the summit, PAMB members and stakeholders were updated and capacitated on programs supporting PA development, best practices of some successful PAs, manual on carrying capacity, limits acceptance change, sustainable financing and users’ fee, and ecotourism development and management programs within PAs.

The summit also showcased the different exhibits prepared by the 5 PAMBs. Each featured the characteristics, biodiversity, culture and products of the five PAs. Further, as part of strengthening the linkages among the different stakeholders present, the summit also held a talent contest, where the PAMBs

By: DENR XII

were able to showcase their respective artistic skills and creativity. The representatives of MANP emerged as champion for the contest, followed by SBPS, AVWFR, LRWFR and MMPL.

The event was successfully facilitated by the DENR XII RED Felix S. Alicer, together with different PA Management Offices and key regional officials. The SOCCSKSARGEN Area Development Project Office, headed by Manager Ginalyn Fe C. Cachuela was recognized as one of the major sponsors for the event. Also present were Mayors Romeo S. Tamayo (Tupi, South Cotabato) and Pedro M. Matinong (Surallah, South Cotabato) and representatives of other chief executives and congresspersons of the region; and PAMB members from the regional line agencies and concerned barangay local government units. The PA Superintendent of PAMB – Mt. Kitanglad Mountain Range Natural Park and representatives from the Department of Tourism (DOT) XII served as resource persons.

RLAs, LGUs, CSOs plant 6,875 trees during the national simultaneous tree planting activity

Koronadal City, South Cotabato – The Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) and the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) in SOCCSKSARGEN Region with various regional line agencies (RLAs), local government units (LGUs), civil society organizations (CSOs) and other stakeholders joined forces during the nationwide simultaneous tree planting activity on September 13, 2022 and planted over 6,875 tree seedlings.

The species planted were bamboo, mangrove, fruit, narra, lauan, among others. Trees were planted in various planting sites across Region XII as part of the nationwide simultaneous tree planting activity, with the theme

“Buhayin ang Pangangalaga ng Kalikasan.”

DENR XII Regional ENGP Operation Center reported that the highest number of seedlings planted was in Sultan Kudarat at 4,300, followed by 1,025 in South Cotabato, 800 in Sarangani Province and 750 in Cotabato Province.

DENR XII Regional Executive Director Atty. Felix S. Alicer emphasized in his message the need to work together in order to restore the country’s forest cover. “We really need to join forces in order to reforest our country.”

Director Alicer further said that as early as 1977, Presidential Decree 1153 already required Filipinos to plant trees as there was already that consciousness of

By: DENR XII

the need to reforest.

“There is no accurate balance between the forest and the land, but we are all in agreement that our forests are not sufficient. Everyone should do his part because we in the DENR alone could not reforest the country, that’s why we are all here to unite our efforts in order to restore our forest cover,” Director Alicer added.

The activity was made possible through the efforts of 2,498 participants (1,424 males and 1,074 females) from DILG, DENR, EMB, MGB, ENRA, ARDEC, DA, DTI, DOLE, TESDA, RTC, DPWH, DAR, AFP, PNP, PNP Maritime, Philippine Coast Guard, NAPOLCOM, BFP, LTO, DepED, DBM, DOH, BJMP, concerned provincial, city, municipal, and barangay LGUs, schools, various groups and other stakeholders.

RDC XII-initiated DFA Consular Office in Kidapawan City opens to the public

Kidapawan City – The Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) Consular Office Kidapawan City, a project spearheaded by the Regional Development Council (RDC) XII, has finally opened its doors to serve the public on September 5, 2022.

The ceremony was graced by DFA Undersecretary Jesus S. Domingo, Assistant Secretary Henry S. Bensurto, Jr. (Office of Consular Affairs), National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA) XII Regional Director Teresita Socorro C. Ramos (Acting Chairperson of RDC XII), Cotabato Provincial Board Members Ivy C. Dalumpines-Ballitoc (representing Gov. Emmylou J. Taliño-Mendoza) and Joseph A. Evangelista (former mayor of Kidapawan City), Officials of the City Government of Kidapawan headed by Mayor Jose Paolo M. Evangelista and Vice Mayor Melvin E. Lamata, Jr., Mr. Reynaldo G. Pagal (representative of Cotabato 2nd District Congressman Rudy S. Caoagdan), Mr. Ronan Eugene C. Garcia (former chairperson of RDC XII’s Macro-Economy, Development Administration, and Finance Committee), and Ms. Nadjefah B. AgcampongMangondaya (Head of DFA Consular Office Kidapawan

City). In his opening statement, Board Member Evangelista said that he even thought that the dream of having a DFA Consular Office in Kidapawan City would have been a nightmare had his administration as city mayor and other government agencies and officials not collaborated and worked hand-in-hand together and made the said initiative happen. Mayor Evangelista, on the other hand, thanked all the men and women behind the success of this project, most especially those people who worked behind the scenes.

NEDA XII Regional Director and Acting RDC XII Chairperson Ramos, in her message, recalled the initiatives undertaken by various national, regional, and local government officials and government bodies that became catalysts for the successful establishment and operationalization of the DFA Consular Office in Kidapawan City. Some of these were the inclusion in the agenda of the 53rd Cabinet Assistance System Meeting with the Office of the Cabinet Secretary, the resolutions passed and adopted by RDC XII, the Joint Regional Task ForceELCAC XII, Cotabato Provincial Development Council, and the Sangguniang Panlalawigans of the provinces of Cotabato, and Sultan Kudarat, respectively.

She also congratulated DFA, the City Government of Kidapawan, and all the people who worked tirelessly behind the success of this project. On the other hand, Board Member Dalumpines-Ballitoc expressed the wholehearted support of the Provincial Government of Cotabato to the said project. She also revealed that the Provincial Government has already included in its FY 2023 Annual Investment Program the fencing of the DFA Consular Office Kidapawan City Building premises. Meanwhile, the Office of Rep. Rudy S. Caoagdan, likewise, extended its congratulations to the City Government, the DFA, and to the people of the Province of Cotabato for this milestone that will benefit not only Cotabateños but also the people from the adjacent areas.

After the turn-over, blessing, and inauguration rites, the DFA Consular Office immediately had its first thirty clients served with Mayor Evangelista as its first. DFA Consular Office Kidapawan City is the 8th consular office in Mindanao, the largest DFA Consular Office outside Metro Manila, and capable of serving more than 5,000 clients in a month. It is open from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM starting September 6, 2022.

By: Jal P. Octavio, NEDA XII

LTFRB intensifies the PUVMP in SOCCSKSARGEN

By: LTFRB XII

Koronadal City, South Cotabato – The Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board-Regional Franchising and Regulatory Office XII (LTFRB-RFRO XII) remains committed to implementing the Public Utility Vehicle Modernization Program (PUVMP) in the region. This is done by encouraging the transport sector to embrace modernization to be able to promote adequate, safe, reliable, efficient and environmentfriendly public utility vehicles.

The LTFRB also coordinates with Local Government Units in the crafting of their Local Public Transport Route Plan (LPTRP) - a decentralized approach to provide adequate, effective, and for better, faster that will provide access and mobility of people and goods.

Regional Director Paterno Reynato C. Padua of LTFRBRFRO XII recently awarded Notices of Selection (NOS) to four transport service cooperatives in the Region that are qualified to operate new and developmental routes under the LPTRPs of Koronadal City, South Cotabato, Lake Sebu, South Cotabato, and General Santos City. Under the Koronadal City LPTRP, NOS were awarded to the Metro Fleet Transport and Logistics Corporation for the San Isidro – Downtown Loop, to the United Transport Operators and Drivers Cooperative for Saravia – Public Market route, and to the Blue Diamond Transport

Cooperative for the San Jose –Public Market route. Under the Lake Sebu LPTRP, the Poblacion – Ned route was awarded to the Lake Sebu Transport Cooperative. And under the General Santos City LPTRP, the Public Market –Katangawan route was awarded to Metro Gensan Transport Cooperative

The LTFRB, together with 15 transport service entities, namely, Lagao Drivers Operators and Transport Cooperative (LADOTRANSCO), Metro Gensan Transport Cooperative (MGTC), Apopong Lagao Jeepney Operators and Drivers Transport Service Cooperatives (ALJODTSCO), Modelong Tricycle Drivers in Gensan Transport Cooperative, Rajah Buayan Transport Cooperative (RBTC), Tambler Jeepney Operator and Drivers Transport Cooperative (TAJODSTCO), JAGS Drivers and Operators Multipurpose Cooperative, Glan Operators-Drivers Transportation Service Cooperative (GODTRANSCO), President Roxas Transport Cooperative (PRT), MalungonGensan Operators and Drivers Transport Cooperative (MALGENTRANSCO), Malandag Transport Cooperative (MALTRANSCO), Makilala Transport Cooperative (MATRANSCO), FVR Malagat Tambler Transport Cooperative (FVRMTTC), Malapatan Drivers-Operators Transport Cooperative (MDOTC) and Lambayong-Tacurong

Transport Service Cooperative (LATTRASCO), launched a total of 198 modernized units that were already providing quality transport services in the region. More modernized units are expected to be acquired with government assistance under the PUVMP. Among the 198 modernized units, 84 are electric jeeps which are proven to be least affected by rising fossil fuel costs.

Transport operators or drivers affected or displaced by the modernization program can avail of the stakeholder support mechanism under the ”Tsuper Iskolar” program in coordination with the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA). A total of 629 beneficiaries can avail of assistance in the form of free skills training. On the other hand, under the “Entsupreneur Program”, qualified stakeholders can avail of financial assistance to support entrepreneurial ventures. The Office of Transportation Cooperatives Regional Desk Office XII (OTC RDO XII) of the Department of Transportation (DOTr) identified 735 potential beneficiaries for the Program in Region XII.

Modernized PUVs acquired by LADOTRANSCO

By: Lucy Mae L. Ruben, NEDA XII

Regional Project Monitoring Committee (RPMC) XII monitored six projects that were implemented in the province of Sultan Kudarat on August 15-16, 2022. The team was accompanied by representatives from the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) XII, Sultan Kudarat 1st and 2nd District Engineering Offices, and NIA Sultan Kudarat Irrigation Management Office. The pertinent field monitoring reports were the subject of deliberation and problem-solving session of RPMC XII during its 3rd quarter meeting on 02 September 2022.

Road Widening-Awang-Upi-LebakKalamansig-Palimbang-Sarangani Road

Construction of River Bank Protection and Flood Control at Hinalaan River

Lebak Integrated River Irrigation Project (LIRIP) CY 2022

Paving of Unpaved RoadsSNA-Lebak-Kalamansig Road

Construction of Flood Control Structure Ala River (Panas-Bambad Section)

Construction of Flood Mitigation and Control Structure Ala River (Dansuli Section)

RPMC XII visits six projects during 3rd quarter monitoring R P M C C O R N

O R N E R

RPMC XII commends CFCST for efficient infrastructure projects

By: Lucy Mae L. Ruben, NEDA XII

KORONADAL CITY, South

Cotabato – Regional Project Monitoring Committee (RPMC) XII visited some of the successfully and efficiently- implemented vertical projects at the Cotabato Foundation College of Science and Technology (CFCST) in Doroloman, Arakan, Cotabato Province on September 13, 2022.

The projects visited were the men’s dormitory, two-storey eight-classroom junior high school building, two-storey eight-classroom senior high school building, ROTC building, retrofitting and rehabilitation of a two-storey college of education, two-storey student’s center, two units of a two-storey college of agriculture, four units of a onestorey agriculture office building, amphitheater, improvement of gymnasium and founder’s museum - phase 1, and concrete access roads within the campus.

The implementation of these projects was found to be highly satisfactory and remarkable given the quality of workmanship, appropriate budget allocation, and completion as scheduled or without delay.

Dr. Ali K. Dilangalen, CFCST President, proudly shared some of the good practices that led to the successful implementation and completion of the projects. These are: a) early preparation of plans, detailed engineering designs (DED) and program of works (POW); b) conduct of early procurement activities; c) awarding of contracts to competent and reliable contractors; and d) optimum use of experts and consultants. Being an engineer by profession, he also gives time to personally inspect the construction activities to ensure contractors’ compliance with the design specifications.

RD Teresita Socorro C. Ramos of NEDA XII and Chairperson of the RPMC XII led the monitoring team during the field visit. She congratulated Pres. Dilangalen for the fast and smooth implementation of the projects which are supported and endorsed by the CFCST Board of Trustees. She also enjoined the team of Pres. Dilangalen to sustain the quality, good performance and on-time implementation and completion of projects to set an example to other SUCs and contractors.

Pres. Dilangalen will be invited to the 4th Quarter Meeting of the RPMC XII to share the best practices for replication in the implementation of future similar infrastructure projects.

MRB-PMO monitors floods in North Cotabato and Maguindanao

By: MinDA

The Mindanao River Basin-Project Management Office (MRB-PMO) of the Mindanao Development Authority (MinDA) visited the municipalities of Pikit,Cotabato Province and Pagalungan, Maguindanao in July and early August after floods covered some of the agriculture areas of these towns. Led by the MinDA Area Management OfficeSouth Central Mindanao (AMO-SCM), the MRBPMO monitored the stricken areas upon the request of the mayors of the affected towns.

LGU-Pikit Mayor Sumulong K. Sultan and Municipal Engineer Sheila Ann Andao mentioned that nearly 29,000 families were forced to flee to higher areas and that the cost of the damage reached nearly P50 million pesos. This

prompted the LGU to declare a state of calamity.

MinDA and the local officials shared the same view that this yearly recurrence requires a long-term solution involving the Department of Public Works and Highways and the National Irrigation Administration (NIA).

On August 2, 2022, a similar monitoring activity in the municipality of Pagalungan was conducted upon the request of Pagalungan Mayor Salik P. Mamasabulod. It was observed that some of the flood control structures along the Pagalungan River had collapsed which inundated farmlands and the national highway near the Tunggol Bridge. Two days later, on August 4, 2022, the MRBPMO again visited the site

and witnessed the gradual erosion of the Pagalungan River banks. All observations and monitoring reports of the team shall be presented to the Mindanao River Basin Management Council during the next technical working group meeting and full council meeting before the year 2022 ends.

Under Executive Order 50, s. 2011, the Mindanao Development Authority (MinDA) is one of three agencies given tasks and responsibilities over the Mindanao River Basin. The other two government agencies are the Department of Environment and Natural Resources-River Basin Control Office (DENRRBCO) and the Office of Civil Defense (OCD).

The strong rains in Pikit eroded the far side of the river bank. Over the other side of the photo is the strategic Tunggol Bridge.

Meeting with Pikit, North Cotabato Mayor Sumulong Sultan on August 2, 2022 regarding the recent floods that hit agricultural parts of the town in June and July 2022.

CSO Academy for SOCCSKSARGEN to start 2022 capdev trainings for South Cotabato enrollees

By: DILG XII

GENERAL SANTOS CITY

- The country’s first ever Civil Society Organization (CSO) Academy will begin its capacity development trainings this year with the Province of South Cotabato as its pilot area. Enrollees will include members of various civil society organizations, NGOs and people’s organizations who are members of local special bodies of their local government units. The profiling of prospective enrollees is being undertaken by the LGU, in partnership with its CSO desk and Mahintana Foundation, Inc. (MFI), the chair of the management Committee for the South Cotabato CSO Academy.

In her speech during the launching and MOA signing on September 27, DILG XII RD Josephine CabridoLeysa, CESO III explained

that the CSO Academy of SOCCSKSARGEN offers capacity-building courses which will enhance capacities and competencies in organizational development, and improve internal governance and sustainability.

The CSO Academy of SOCCSKSARGEN was formally launched in General Santos City on April 11, 2022, with the signing of the Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) for the institutionalization of the CSO Academy of SOCCSKSARGEN, considered to be the first learning institution in the country created purposely to capacitate CSO leaders who play important and major roles in local governance.

Director Leysa also revealed that the province of South Cotabato, through Gov. Reynaldo Tamayo Jr., has

assured the allocation of P5.6 million for the first batch of about 50 trainees from various CSOs, NGOs, and POs.

The CSO Academy is an offshoot of the collaborative efforts among and between the Local Governance Regional Resource Center (LGRRC) Rehiyon Dose, the Department of Budget and Management (DBM) XII, and their NGO partners, the Association of Foundations (AF) and the Mahintana Foundation, Inc (MFI). The course will begin with the Association of Foundations’ (AF) “LEAD to SERVE” for Phase I and Module on Local Governance for Phase II.

SK coffee farmer hailed as Sox’s most outstanding rural woman

By: Carl Ulysses Aguillion, DA RAFIS XII

Senator Ninoy Aquino, Sultan Kudarat - A coffee farmer from Senator Ninoy Aquino (SNA), Sultan Kudarat bagged this year’s award for Most Outstanding Rural Woman of the Department of Agriculture (DA) XII.

During the awarding ceremony in Koronadal City, Rebecca Gacayan of Barangay Malegdeg of the aforesaid town bested ten other rural women from the other provinces of SOCCSKSARGEN.

Gacayan, who advocates for ‘carpeting the mountain with coffee trees,’ is also a coffee processor and trader.

She also considers herself as a motivator of other coffee farmers, especially rural women, who face challenges in farming.

Gacayan’s win placed her as the regional bet for the national edition of the Search for Outstanding Rural Women (SORW).

“I offer this win to my fellow rural women in the Municipality of Senator Ninoy Aquino, that they may continue to engage in coffee production regardless of the challenges in life,” she said during the ceremony.

Meanwhile, it was notable that the top three winners for the Regional SORW are coffee farmers.

The second placer, Shiela Livera of Kidapawan City, Cotabato and third placer Ruby Cabredo, of SNA town, are also rural producers of coffee.

Livera is a local processor who advocates for decent work for women, and helps her fellow rural women improve their literacy rate.

Aside from the three regional winners, DA XII also acknowledged the following provincial nominees: Agripina C. De Leon ( Brgy. Cinco, Banga, South Cotabato); Ma’am Salvacion P. Casica

(Brgy. M. Roxas, Sto. Niño, South Cotabato); Nenita P. Arot (New Bohol, Alegria, Alabel, Sarangani Province); Evelyn L. Delfinan (Pag-asa, Alabel, Sarangani Province); Dioscora C. Martin (Brgy. Nomoh, Maasim, Sarangani Province); Dearly G. Gaveliño (Brgy. Nati, Senator Ninoy Aquino, Sultan Kudarat), and; Lerma Javing (Lambayong, Sultan Kudarat).

The Outstanding Rural Women Awards is an annual search for extraordinary females who have manifested exemplary contributions to food security as well as economic growth towards the improvement of their communities.

Under Republic Act 9710 or the magna carta for women, the event recognizes women’s endeavors and their contributions towards the improvement of the agrifisheries sector.

Ms. Rebecca Gacayan (3rd from left) bagged this year’s award for Most Outstanding Rural Woman of the Department of Agriculture (DA) XII. She bested 10- other rural women from other provinces of SOCCSKSARGEN.

CENRO-Banga gives out Falcata seedlings, in line with GAD initiatives

By: Alnayah D. Mohammad Ayman, CENRO Banga

BANGA, South CotabatoThe Community Environment and Natural Resources Office (CENRO) of Banga, South Cotabato provided a total of 1,000 Falcata seedlings to its chosen beneficiaries in Brgy. Mongokayo, T’boli, South Cotabato. The distribution came during the conduct of livelihood training on raising Falcata seedlings, as part of CENRO’s Gender and Development (GAD) program.

The training objectives were to: (1) provide technical skills on raising Falcata seedlings, and be able to produce 1,000 seedlings for the eNGP; (2) raise awareness on the importance of planting Falcata and its economic and environmental benefits; (3) promote public awareness as well as instill social and environmental consciousness on the value of forests and watersheds; (4) improve the socio-economic conditions of

the UN beneficiaries through accessing and acquiring necessary assets to engage in and maintain thriving livelihoods; and (5) engage men and women to promote gender equality in any government programs and services.

The NGP Staff demonstrated the process of how to plant Falcata seeds and how to take care of them. In addition to the 1,000 seedlings of falcata, 10 eco crates were also given

to the beneficiaries.

Other topics covered in the training were the National Greening Program (NGP) and Climate Change Adaptation/Mitigation. CENRO Banga also distributed a total of 46 copies of IEC materials entitled “Bakit Mahalaga Ang Mga Puno?” and “Alternatibong Resolusyon sa Panagbangi (Alternative Dispute Resolution).”

IPOs in Malapatan receive PHP1 million financial assistance from DENR

By: SRCabildo, PENRO Sarangani

Malapatan, SaranganiTwo women indigenous people’s organizations (POs) in Malapatan, Sarangani Province received a total of one million pesos financial assistance from the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR). The assistance was given two years after the conduct of capacity building activities on BiodiversityFriendly Enterprise (BDFE). The two POs are the Jolohano Women’s Association (PJWA) and Ded Libon de Lasang Association (DLDLA).

The capacity building component of the assistance given to PJWA and DLDA includes enterprise planning and formulation of marketing strategies through the Upscaling of Coastal and Marine Ecosystem program. These POs are both located in Barangay Sapu Masla, Malapatan, Sarangani Province.

The PJWA received PHP429,250.00, to be used for the purchase of

additional tents, tables and chairs, and utensils. Since its establishment in 2021, PJWA has engaged in a “rent a tent” enterprise and offer it to different POs and customers in the municipality. Since then, the business has continuously grown, and PJWA aims to further improve its business.

The DLDLA, on the other hand, received PHP509,410.00, to be used for the enhancement of its mat weaving workshop and display center. It has been weaving mats made from locally abundant romblon and buri since 2004. Their products are popular in both the local and international markets. One of its members was awarded the National Living Treasures or the Gawad sa Manlilikha ng Bayan (GaMaBa) in 2016. DLDLA President Judith Bantilan and its members wanted to upscale the production of herbanig through the construction of their Workshop and Display Center.

During the ceremonial signing of contracts, DENR Sarangani Provincial Environment and Natural Resources Officer (PENRO) Maria Elvira V. Lumayag highlighted the important roles of the women-beneficiaries in their organizations. She said that the “assistance granted by the government through the DENR will help you as mothers and guide your respective organizations, to improve your livelihood and standard of living. We ask you to grow and develop this investment while continuously protecting our environment and natural resources, especially the protected areas.”

BDFE, in collaboration with local government units and POs, engages in economic activities and practices of enterprises that promote the sustainable use of biological resources, create wealth and value, and open opportunities for the equitable sharing of benefits among shareholders.

NEDA XII capacitates BPDA-BARMM on RPMES

By: Rebecca Ruth S. Simtim, NEDA XII

GENERAL SANTOS CITY

– NEDA XII conducted a capacity building activity on the Regional Project Monitoring and Evaluation System (RPMES) for the technical staff of Bangsa Moro Planning and Development Authority – Bangsa Moro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BPDABARMM) last Aug. 10-12, 2022 in General Santos City.

The training covered the following topics: (a) Review of the Log Frame and Project Development Cycle, (b) M&E Concepts (c)RPMES Framework, Organizational Structure of RPMES, and Process Flow (d) Computing for Physical and Financial Performance of Projects and (e) Concepts on Ex-post Monitoring. The participants were likewise taught on the importance of the RPMES Forms 1-11 and how to accomplish them.

Part of the capacity building activity was an actual field validation on the ground for two projects in Region XII involving one vertical (Construction of MSU-General Santos City Laboratory Building) and one horizontal projects (Widening of the Upper Makar Bridge Project). Hands-on exercise on project monitoring report preparation was also undertaken by the participants which were later presented to the body acting as the Regional Project Monitoring Committee in session. The activities were designed to allow the participants to have a “learning by doing” experience.

There were 34 participants from the Monitoring and Evaluation Division and other divisions of the BPDA who attended the capacity building activity with the technical staff

of the Project Monitoring and Evaluation Division (PMED) of NEDA XII resource persons.

Engineer Kadil A. Sulaik, Jr., Director for BPDA Research Development and Special Project, conveyed their heartfelt thanks to NEDA XII for accommodating their request, as well as for providing the opportunity to have an actual experience on how to conduct monitoring activities on the ground and hands-on exercise on project monitoring report preparation.

On the other hand, Assistant Regional Director Carmel P. Matabang of NEDA XII, in her message, encouraged the participants to adopt processes and practices such as the RPMES which will help them do their job better, particularly in the area of monitoring ongoing programs/ projects.

NEDA XII provides technical assistance to BEDC

By: Gwyneth Grace B. Collado, NEDA XII

KORONADAL CITY, South Cotabato – National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA) XII through its Policy Formulation and Planning Division (PFPD) provided technical assistance to the members of the Development Administration Committee (DACom) of the Bangsamoro Economic and Development Council (BEDC) on the refinement of its sectoral development framework for the 2nd Bangsamoro Development Plan (BDP) 2023-2028 on July 18-19, 2022 in Davao City. The BEDC is the Regional Development Council’s (RDC) counterpart in the Bangsamoro Region.

The NEDA XII team that facilitated the refinement workshop were composed of: Romel Patrick E. Tanghal (Chief EDS), Gwyneth Grace B. Collado (Supervising EDS), Ruby Abegail S. Dedoroy (Senior EDS), and Kate D. Espero (EDS I).

The two-day activity was hosted by the BARMMMinistry of the Interior and Local Government under the leadership of Minister Naguib G. Sinarimbo, the concurrent chairperson of DACom.

Director Melanie M. Indar,

of the Bangsamoro Planning and Development Authority (BPDA)-Planning and Policies Bureau, emphasized in her opening message that the core objective of the 2nd BDP is to address the current development challenges faced by the Bangsamoro people and to uplift their standard of living by having an inclusive growth in the Region.

She also recounted in her message the importance of undertaking this 2-day activity to ensure the consistency and alignment of the sub-sectoral and sectoral outputs with the BARMM vision, goals, and the enhanced 12-Point Priority Agenda as contained in the 2nd BDP.

During the said activity the seven sub-sectors of DACom namely, Bureaucracy, Fiscal Management, Legislation, Development Planning, Multi-stakeholders’ engagement, Bangsamoro Justice System, and Monitoring and Evaluation were able to improve their sub-sectoral outcomes, objectives, strategies, and success indicators to pave the way in achieving its sectoral goal of having a responsive, efficient, and transparent Bangsamoro governance.

In relaying the message of NEDA XII RD Teresita Socorro C. Ramos on the activity, Mr. Tanghal expressed appreciation to BARMM BPDA and MILG for giving NEDA XII an opportunity to provide technical assistance and at the same time to learn and understand more the different mechanisms of the development administration sector of the BARMM. He also reiterated the commitment of NEDA in providing technical assistance to BARMM along with support to the initiatives of BARMM in attaining long and lasting peace as well as holistic development in Mindanao.

In her closing message, Ms. Camelia N. De VeraDacanay, head secretariat of DACom, expressed her profound gratitude to NEDA XII management for positively responding on the Committee’s request for technical assistance. Likewise, she also conveyed her appreciation to the Committee members for their active participation and for meticulously improving their respective subsectors’ outputs for inclusion in the 2nd Bangsamoro Development Plan 2023-2028.

Burn out test, stress management session for NEDA XII Staff

By: Evie A. Cabulanan, NEDA XII

Koronadal City, South Cotabato – In support of building a Resilient and Healthy Philippines, NEDA XII officials and staff underwent a burn out test and attended a stress management session on July 20, 2022 at the SOCCSKSARGEN Hall, NEDA XII Building, Carpenter Hill, Koronadal City.

Mr. Mohammad Zein Kali of the Department of Health SOCCSKSARGEN Region facilitated the conduct of the burn-out test to 40 NEDA XII employees to determine the level of stress in their work. The result showed that some are doing fine, others are burning out, while a few are candidates of being burnedout.

To have a better handle of an individual’s stresses, Kali conducted a stress management session which focused on understanding mental health in general and the physical signs of stresses.

One key take away from the session is that there are many ways to hack or stimulate one’s happy hormones consisting of dopamine and endorphins.

The session encouraged everyone to sway away from stress by engaging in selfawareness, activities like sports, listening to music, socialize with friends and families, among others.

Understanding one’s mental health is important to the overall wellness of a person.

Mental health helplines were established in the region, namely: the DOH-CHD SOCCSKSARGEN Crisis Helpline @MH-DOHCHD12 Mental Health Service with helpline number 09363793386 and the Dangpanay sa South Cotabato by the IPHO South Cotabato. DOH-CHD helpline would like to ask “Kumusta Ka, Usap Tayo”… just dial the number.

The activity was done as part of the 48th Nutrition Month Celebration with a theme, “New Normal na Nutrisyon, Sama-Samang Gawan ng Solusyon!

Resolutions from the Reorganizational and 78th Regular Meeting of Regional Development Council XII

This year marks the golden founding anniversary of the Regional Development Councils. With this milestone, the Council showed its resolve to continue pushing for the development of SOCCSKSARGEN Region for the years to come by passing 49 resolutions. Below are some of these:

1. RDC XII Resolution No. 88, s. of 2022 Requesting the Unified Project Management Office of the Department of Public Works and Highways to Update the Completed Feasibility Studies for the Four Major Flood Control Projects Identified in the Mindanao River Basin Integrated Management and Development Master Plan

The Mindanao River Basin, which is located in Central and a portion of Southern Mindanao, is the second largest river basin in the Philippines, and the largest in Mindanao. Following MinDA’s on-site visit in June 2022, there is a need to update the completed feasibility studies for the flood control projects identified in the MRB master plan to integrate recent development initiatives and consider the changes in the landscape of the area and its biophysical characteristics. DPWH XII strongly supported the said resolution.

2. RDC XII Resolution No. 91, s. of 2022 Supporting the Conduct of a Multi-Sectoral Consultation Meeting for the Development of the Port of General Santos

Port of General Santos, also known as the Makar Wharf, is the major port of the region that serves as the primary gateway of agriculture and marine products. However, issues confronting its development have not been resolved despite the Council’s various initiatives. This forced and left the agri-fishery industry exporters no option but to transport their products through the Davao International Container Terminal. This also yields an additional cost of about PhP 38,000 per van to transport their containers and a delay of three to five days due to port congestion. Hence, the Infrastructure Development Committee of the Council will spearhead a multi-sectoral consultation meeting for the development of the Port of General Santos.

3. RDC XII Resolution No. 95, s. of 2022 Adopting the PAGTANAW 2050 as a Guide in Regional Development

The PAGTANAW 2050 is the first DOST-funded inter-disciplinal and transdisciplinal project on Philippine-focused Science, Technology and Innovation Foresight and Strategic Plan that will impact on the aspirations of the Filipino people by 2050.

For the complete list of resolutions passed during Reorganizational and 78th Regular Meeting of Regional Development Council (RDC) XII on September 9, 2022 via blended mode at the Farm@ Carpenter Hill, Koronadal City, South Cotabato and Zoom videoconference, just scan this code or click here.

The Sectoral Committees (SeComs) are responsible for providing the Regional Development Council (RDC) with appropriate information and recommendations on matters concerning regional development. Among their functions are to serve as clearing houses of all issues and concerns affecting the sector which require action at the level of the RDC.

The SeComs are jointly headed by the Chairperson and Co-Chairperson, whose term shall coincide with the regular term of local elected officials. Per the approved RDC XII Reorganization Guidelines and RDC XII Manual of Operations, the Chairperson of the SeComs shall come from the RDC XII Private Sector Representatives and the Co-Chairperson from the Government Sector (Local Chief Executives or Regional Directors/Heads of National Government Agencies or Instrumentalities in the region).

Here are the RDC XII SeCom Chairpersons and Co-Chairpersons for the term 20222025:

Chairperson Richlie Lyndon L. Magtulis Private Sector Representative for Sarangani Province

Co-Chairperson Nelia A. Alibin, Ph. D. Regional Director, Commission on Higher Education XII

Chairperson Raymund K. Salangsang Private Sector Representative for General Santos City

Co-Chairperson Macario D. Gonzaga Regional Director, Land Transportation Office XII

Chairperson Ret B/Gen Joselito E Kakilala Private Sector Representative for Economic Development Sector

Co-Chairperson Flora P. Gabunales OIC-Regional Director, Department of Trade and Industries XII

Chairperson Ryan S. Vidanes

Private Sector Representative for Governance and Development Administration Sector

Co-Chairperson Joseph George L. Lechonsito Mayor, City Government of Tacurong