South Cotabato, Philippines | January 24, 2026 – South Cotabato Governor Reynaldo S. Tamayo Jr. has directed the Office of the Provincial Population Officer (OPPO) to intensify its programs to reach more people, especially the youth, as part of the provincial government’s continuing commitment to human-centered governance.
Governor Tamayo emphasized that protecting young people from preventable social risks is a shared responsibility of government, schools, and families.
“Our children deserve guidance, correct information, and support as they grow. This is how we build a stronger and more responsible South Cotabato,” the governor stressed, aligning the initiative with his administration’s people-first agenda.
In response, Provincial Population Officer Melanie C. Chiva reported that OPPO is simultaneously strengthening its Parent Education on Adolescent Health and Development (PEAHD) program.
One of its recent activities engaged 84 Grade 9 students at San Vicente National High School in Banga, South Cotabato, focusing on practical and age-appropriate discussions about adolescent health.
“This is not just a lecture. It is a safe space for adolescents to learn, ask questions, and understand the consequences of their choices,” she explained.
According to Chiva, the activity was made possible through close collaboration with the school principal, teachers, parents, and the OPPO Technical Working Group.
“Ang pag monitor sa mga Kabataan naga umpisa sa family and at home,” Chiva Said.
The PEAHD program aims to equip adolescents with the necessary knowledge, values, and life skills to address the growing risks of teenage pregnancy and early marriage.
These risks are increasingly influenced by social media exposure, peer pressure, and other risky behaviors faced by today’s youth.
By strengthening partnerships at the school and community levels, the provincial government hopes to empower young people to make informed decisions about their health and future.
Governor Tamayo reiterated that investing in adolescents today means building healthier families and more resilient communities tomorrow—an investment that reflects the heart of his leadership for South Cotabato.
