KORONADAL CITY, SOUTH COTABATO – Provincial Social Welfare and Development Officer (PSWDO) Sonia L. Bautista lauded Governor Reynaldo S. Tamayo, Jr. for his dedication and resourcefulness in ensuring that essential social services continue to reach residents in need across the province, despite fiscal limitations.
Bautista emphasized that while the budget allocated to the Provincial Social Welfare and Development Office is limited, it has never been a hindrance to delivering assistance to vulnerable sectors.
She credited Governor Tamayo’s proactive leadership and ability to strategically source funds to sustain vital welfare programs for the people of South Cotabato.
“Hindi naging hadlang ang limitadong pondo upang hindi kami makapagbigay ng tulong sa mga nangangailangan. Malaki ang papel ng ating gobernador dahil siya ay masipag, at maparaan sa paghahanap ng sapat na pondo upang masigurong may maibibigay na tulong sa bawat mamamayang lumalapit sa pamahalaang panlalawigan,” Bautista said.
According to Bautista, Governor Tamayo consistently prioritizes social protection programs, recognizing their crucial role in addressing poverty, emergencies, and social vulnerabilities.
Through strong coordination among provincial offices and efficient budget management, the provincial government continues to provide timely assistance to individuals and families facing crisis situations.
One of the key programs sustained under the Tamayo administration is the Assistance to Individuals in Crisis Situation (AICS), which provides financial and material support to residents experiencing medical emergencies, bereavement, displacement, and other urgent needs.
Bautista noted that AICS remains one of the most accessed programs of the PSWDO, serving as immediate relief for families during difficult times.
Beyond AICS, several other flagship programs of the PSWDO continue to operate effectively. These include the Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program (E-CLIP), which assists former rebels and their families as they reintegrate into mainstream society, the Early Childhood Care and Development (ECCD) program, which ensures the holistic development and well-being of young children and the Social Pension for Senior Citizens, which provides monthly financial assistance to indigent elderly residents.
“These programs reflect the administration’s commitment to inclusive governance. Hindi lamang ito tungkol sa pagbibigay ng tulong, kundi sa pagbibigay ng pag-asa at dignidad sa ating mga kababayan,” Bautista added.
She further highlighted that Governor Tamayo’s leadership is anchored on the principle of bringing government services closer to the people.
Through constant dialogue with communities and responsiveness to their concerns, the provincial government is able to align its programs with the actual needs of residents.
Under the Tamayo administration, social welfare initiatives are viewed not merely as short-term interventions but as part of a long-term strategy to uplift the quality of life of South Cotabateños.
Bautista expressed optimism that with continued support from the provincial leadership, PSWDO programs will further expand their reach and impact.
“The governor’s dedication inspires us as public servants to work harder and remain committed to our mandate. If there are people in need, the provincial government will continue to find ways to help,” Bautista said.
The provincial government of South Cotabato remains steadfast in its mission to deliver responsive, compassionate, and sustainable social services, reinforcing its commitment to serve every sector of society, especially the most vulnerable.
