September 12, 2025 | Koronadal City, South Cotabato – South Cotabato Provincial Agriculturist Dr. Raul D. Teves has been recognized as the Outstanding Veterinarian in Rural and Extension Service by the Philippine Veterinary Medical Association – Southern Mindanao Chapter (PVMA-SMC).
The award was conferred during the 44th PVMA-SMC Annual Convention and Scientific Conference held from September 11 to 13, 2025 at Dreamweavers Hotel, in Koronadal City. Dr. Teves received a Plaque of Recognition in acknowledgment of his unwavering support and dedicated service to the organization.
In an interview, Dr. Teves shared the roots of his service: “Actually, halin ako sa PVET – nag umpisa ako as veterinarian IV, isa kita [ako] sa nagabulig sa pagtapna sang rabies kag paano malikayan ang pagsulod sang mga transboundary diseases like African Swine Fever (ASF) and Avian flu (bird flu).
He also recalled the challenges faced during the COVID-19 pandemic and how they responded through innovation:
“Tong ari na kita sa OPAg as Provincial Agriculturist, na-timing dayun nga nag-COVID that time, so gin launch kaagad naton ang ‘Tyangge sa Probinsya’ kung sa diin ang mga katawhan maka-avail sang barato nga pagkaon samtang di sila makagawas sa ila mga barrio, at the same time, active man kita sa paghatag sang pagkaon sa mga frontliner naton.”
In addition to that, to help local farmers, Dr. Teves launched programs such as “Palay Support”, which buys rice at Php19 per kilo, and “Food Consolidated Farming” to help increase production.
“Nagfocus dayun kita sa aton Food Security, nagpatigayon naman kita sang isa ka programa nga ‘Palay Support’ kung sa diin ginabakal naton ang palay for 19 pesos biskan magbaba pa ang presyo sang palay. Kag gin lunsad man naton ang Food Consolidated Farming para gid sa aton mga farmers para makabulig sa ila.”
Despite the ongoing challenges in the field of agriculture, Dr. Teves continues to exemplify compassion, integrity, and excellence in public service.
“Nalipay man kita nga nakahatag kita dungog sa aton probinsya. Ang importante himuon ta nalang gid kung ano ang makaya ta.”
Moreover, the Office of the Provincial Agriculturist are also here to support and empower our local farmers in the province of South Cotabato. “Kami diri sa OPAg, mangingkamot lang kung ano gid ang pwede naton mahimo pa para sa kaayuhan sang aton nga farmers para masiguro nga may ara kita pagkaon sa adlaw-adlaw.”
Dr. Teves’ recognition by PVMA-SMC not only honors his individual accomplishments but also highlights the importance of rural veterinary and agricultural extension services in building resilient, food-secure communities. His leadership continues to inspire public servants and professionals across the agricultural sector and empowers farmer in the Province of South Cotabato.
