T’boli, South Cotabato—In a continuing effort to bring government services closer to geographically isolated and disadvantaged areas (GIDA), the Provincial Government of South Cotabato successfully conducted the Community Healing, Reconciliation, and Outreach Program on May 29, 2026, in Sitio Blangas, Barangay Kematu, Municipality of T’boli.
The outreach benefited residents of Sitio Blangas and nearby communities by providing a wide range of essential services while promoting peacebuilding, reconciliation, and community development.
Provincial Social Welfare and Development Officer Sonia L. Bautista emphasized the significance of bringing both social services and peacebuilding interventions directly to underserved communities.
“The Community Healing, Reconciliation, and Outreach Program reflects our commitment to ensuring that every community, especially those in geographically isolated areas, has access to essential government services. More importantly, it serves as a platform for healing, strengthening social cohesion, and promoting a culture of peace. Through the collective efforts of our partner agencies and stakeholders, we continue to empower communities and create opportunities for lasting development and reconciliation,” Bautista said.
The initiative served as a testament to the government’s commitment to inclusive governance and to ensuring that no community is left behind in accessing vital public services.
One of the highlights of the activity was the sharing of testimonies from former rebels, who spoke about their experiences and journey toward reintegration into society. Their stories underscored the importance of reconciliation, community support, and the government’s efforts in fostering lasting peace in conflict-affected areas.
She further noted that sustainable peace can only be achieved when communities are provided with opportunities, support services, and meaningful government interventions that address both their immediate needs and long-term aspirations.
Throughout the day, residents availed themselves of services including free medical and dental consultations, circumcision services, veterinary assistance for livestock and domestic animals, distribution of medicines, food packs, and hygiene kits, as well as mass feeding activities and recreational games with prizes for children and families.
Aside from delivering basic services, the outreach program also emphasized healing and peacebuilding through psychosocial support activities designed to strengthen community resilience and well-being. Informative sessions on the Anti-Terrorism Act and Executive Order No. 70 were conducted to enhance public awareness and understanding of the government’s peace and security initiatives.
Residents warmly welcomed the initiative and expressed their appreciation for the services and assistance provided. Community members highlighted how the outreach activity not only addressed their health and livelihood concerns but also strengthened their sense of inclusion and connection with the government.
The program was made possible through the collaborative efforts of various government agencies and partner institutions, including the Office of the Provincial Social Welfare and Development Officer (OPSWDO), South Cotabato Provincial Hospital (SCPH), Office of the Provincial Health Officer (OPHO), Norala District Hospital (NDH), Office of the Provincial Veterinarian (OPVET), Office of the Provincial Agriculturist (OPAG), Barangay Affairs Unit (BAU), Office of the Provincial Public Information Office (OPIO), Municipal Local Government Unit (MLGU) of T’boli, the 2nd South Cotabato Provincial Mobile Force Company, and the 105th Infantry Battalion of the Philippine Army.
The successful implementation of the program demonstrates the Provincial Government of South Cotabato’s unwavering commitment to fostering peace, development, and social transformation, particularly in remote communities. Through continued collaboration among government agencies, security forces, and local stakeholders, the province remains steadfast in its pursuit of inclusive growth and sustainable peace for all South Cotabateños.
