South Cotabato, Philippines – The spirit of Christmas reached some of the farthest communities of Barangay Canahay as the “Pasko ng Paglilingkod at Pagmamahal” brought concrete help and renewed hope to residents of Sitio Batnawan, Sitio Lambuoy, and Sitio Lembukon in Barangay Canajay in the town of Surallah.
Led by Mr. Rolly Doane C. Aquino, Provincial Disaster, Risk, Reduction and Management Chief, the inter-agency tree planting and gift-giving activity went beyond symbolic celebration and directly responded to the everyday needs of families in these remote areas.
According to Cris P. Pingkunn Fuentes, Project Development Officer II, the activity is a clear expression of the provincial government’s commitment to inclusive service:
“This is more than just a Christmas outreach; it is an investment in the dignity and resilience of our communities. When we bring health services, livelihood support, and even simple acts of care to far-flung sitios, we are telling our people that they matter, that they are seen, and that development includes them,” Fuentes said.
Through tree planting, the initiative helped strengthen environmental protection and reduce the risks of flooding and soil erosion, contributing to safer, more climate-resilient communities for children and future generations.
“Residents also benefitted from on-site medical check-ups, giving families—many of whom live far from health facilities—access to basic health services without the burden of long travel and additional expenses,” he shared.
To further support local livelihoods, veterinary and agricultural assistance were distributed, helping farmers and livestock owners improve animal health, increase productivity, and stabilize their sources of income.
Meanwhile, the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) also extended their support by offering free haircuts, a simple yet meaningful service that provided comfort, dignity, and a sense of belonging to community members who seldom receive such personal care.
More than a one-day program, “Pasko ng Paglilingkod at Pagmamahal” became a symbol of government presence, compassion, and solidarity in hard-to-reach communities—showing that public service can be felt even in the most distant corners of Barangay Canahay.
This December, the people of three sitios experienced the true meaning of Christmas: helping those most in need, giving without expecting anything in return, and serving with a genuine and compassionate heart.
The activity is spearheaded by the CATCH-UP, a unit under the Office of the Govenor and supervised by the OPDRRMO.
