KORONADAL CITY — The Commission on Population and Development (CPD) commended the Province of South Cotabato for its outstanding implementation of population and development (POPDEV) programs during the National Validation of the 2025 Rafael M. Salas Kaunlarang Pantao Awards (RMSKPA) held on September 24–25, 2025.
South Cotabato is among the Top 5 Finalists under the Provincial Category in this year’s search for the most outstanding local government units (LGUs) in localizing the POPDEV agenda.
According to Ms. Gloren Hinlo, Acting Chief of CPD’s Policy, Planning, and Development Management Division, South Cotabato showed strong political will, effective collaboration, and impactful programs that address key population concerns such as teenage pregnancy, unmet family planning needs, and community awareness.
“Your province demonstrated not only compliance with the criteria but also genuine impact in improving the lives of your people,” Hinlo shared.
She noted that while documents submitted by the province were already impressive, the on-site validation revealed deeper insights into the province’s programs and their positive results at the community level.
The Provincial Population Office (OPPO), together with local government partners and the Sangguniang Panlalawigan’s Family Relations Committee, was recognized for ensuring that population and development policies are well-integrated in local planning and implementation.
Hinlo expressed optimism about South Cotabato’s chances of securing national recognition, emphasizing that the province’s commitment and consistency set it apart from other LGUs.
The final deliberation and awarding for the 2025 RMSKPA will be held in November 2025.
