Koronadal City, Philippines | November 6, 2025 — South Cotabato Governor Reynaldo S. Tamayo, Jr. reaffirmed his strong commitment to child welfare and development during his 2025 State of the Children’s Address (SOCHA) held in South Cotabato Gymnasium and Cultural Center.
Governor Tamayo emphasized the Provincial Government’s efforts to uphold the four fundamental rights of children — survival, development, protection, and participation — through programs that promote Early Childhood Care and Development (ECCD), nutrition, mental health, and access to free education and hospitalization.
“As Governor, it is our administration’s goal to uphold child-friendly local governance. We have developed and implemented programs to ensure that the rights of our children are fully protected,” Tamayo said.
(Bilang Gobernador, adhikain ng ating pamamahala ang child- friendly local governance. Bumuo at nagpatupad tayo ng mga programa upang tiyak na matutukan ang karapatan ng ating mga kabataan.)
He cited the expansion of day care centers, support for child development workers, and continuous feeding and health programs aimed at improving children’s well-being.
The province has also strengthened its response to mental health concerns, offering psychosocial support for children and families.
Governor Tamayo also recognized the vital role of parents, teachers, and the community in guiding the youth, noting that the success of every child depends on shared responsibility.
“We believe that this program is important for young people to learn early and achieve a successful life,” he added.
(Naniniwala tayo na mahalaga ang programang ito upang maagang matuto ang mga kabataan at makamit nila ang matagumpay na buhay).
He commended the collaboration between the Provincial Population Office and the Provincial Social Welfare and Development Office (PSWDO), which earned national recognition for their child-centered initiatives and programs.
The event reaffirmed South Cotabato’s commitment to building a child-friendly province where every child is healthy, protected, educated, and empowered to reach their full potential.
