KORONADAL CITY, South Cotabato | November 25, 2025 — The Provincial Government of South Cotabato has taken a major step toward strengthening civil society participation with the conduct of the first South Cotabato Provincial People’s Council (SCPPC) General Assembly and Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) 2025.
PCDO head Atty. Renette B. Bergado said, the assembly highlighted the milestones and accomplishments of both the PCDO and the SCPPC. Leaders and representatives from all municipalities and the lone city of South Cotabato attended the event, reflecting the growing collective movement toward inclusive governance.
One of the most significant moments of the assembly was the presentation of the SCPPC–Civil Society Organization Development Agenda 2025–2028. SCPPC Vice President Atty. RJ Sustiguer, EdD, PhD, emphasized the Capacity Development Imperatives that will drive CSO growth in the coming years.
“Paunti-unti nararamdam natin na pinupuntahan na tayo ng ibang LGUs at nagbe-benchmark sila sa atin. We have documented all the best practices of our CSOs so that we become a rich source of knowledge for those who want to follow our example—champions of open governance, champions of participatory government,” Sustiguer said.
On behalf of Governor Reynaldo S. Tamayo, Jr., Vice Governor Arthur Y. Pinggoy, Jr. delivered a response message, assuring budget and support for the projects and programs of the PCDO.
“We know that government cannot do it alone. That is why we sincerely thank your participation… and in South Cotabato, Angat Ka, because we have CSOs, people like you, helping the Government,” Vice Governor Pinggoy said.
The assembly concluded with a reaffirmation of the province’s commitment to strengthening civil society engagement, fostering transparent governance, and promoting collaborative programs that ensure the sustainable development and inclusive growth of South Cotabato.
