South Cotabato, Philippines| January 21 2026 – In a strong show of leadership and commitment to frontline health workers, South Cotabato Governor Reynaldo S. Tamayo Jr. spearheaded a Town Hall Meeting with Provincial Health Navigators, sending a clear message: their service matters, and their honorarium will not be ignored.
Gov. Tamayo candidly acknowledged the current challenge: there is no allocated budget yet for the release of their honorarium.
However, he was firm and reassuring in his promise that this will not be the end of the story.
“Walang maiiwan,” the Governor emphasized, assuring both the public and the health navigators that the provincial government is actively exploring ways to generate funds and realign resources to ensure they are compensated for their hard work.
Held with energy and open dialogue, the meeting became a platform for the Governor to directly address the long-standing concern of unpaid honoraria among health navigators—community workers who play a crucial role in bringing health services closer to the people.
Last week, town hall meetings were held in two separate occasions in Banga and Tboli.
The town hall meetings were marked by transparency and empathy, as led by the Barangay Affairs Unit.
The governor, on the other hand, vowed to visit every sitio to personally explain the budget concern.
Gov. Tamayo stressed that Provincial Health Navigators are vital partners in strengthening the province’s healthcare system.
He reiterated that while budget limitations are real, political will and creative solutions can bridge the gap.
This month, Governor Tamayo assured to complete the total number of 13, 500 health navigators. At present, BAU recorded 11, 000 navigators.
The Governor’s assurance sparked renewed hope among the health workers, reinforcing trust in the provincial leadership.
His proactive stance reflects an administration that values service, dialogue, and accountability.
As South Cotabato continues to improve its health programs, Gov. Tamayo’s commitment stands as a reminder that behind every policy are people who serve—and leaders who must stand by them.
