South Cotabato, Philippines | November 26, 2025 – South Cotabato has once again made its mark on the national stage after earning 2nd Place in the 2025 Rafael M. Salas Kaunlarang Pantao Award (RMSKPA)—a recognition given to local government units that champion meaningful, people-centered population and development programs.
Provincial Population Officer Melanie C. Chiva, who received the award on behalf of the province, expressed deep gratitude to the population, workers and volunteers who bring PopDev programs to life.
“Kahit ilang bundok ang aakyatin at ilang ilog o sapa ang tatawirin natin, our teams continue to show up for every community,” she said, highlighting the compassion and perseverance of field workers who serve even the farthest sitios.
The Commission on Population and Development (CPD) honored the province for its outstanding performance and unwavering dedication to advancing the Philippine Population and Development Plan of Action.
South Cotabato’s strong integration of population strategies into local planning—spanning health, education, family welfare, youth development, and community resilience—earned praise for being both inclusive and genuinely responsive to the needs of its people.
Chiva emphasized that South Cotabato’s success is rooted in strong teamwork—from the Provincial Population Office to LGUs, barangays, national agencies, and community partners.
Their collective effort allowed programs on responsible parenthood, adolescent health, demographic planning, and social protection to reach more families and deliver real, measurable impact.
With this national recognition, the PPO is preparing to introduce new directions and innovations to sustain momentum.
These include strengthening youth-focused interventions, expanding community partnerships, and advancing data-driven programs that further uplift families.
“This is our second national RMSKPA recognition,” Chiva shared, referring to the province’s earlier win in 2023. She said the award affirms South Cotabato’s enduring commitment to people-first development and its mission to continue improving the lives of every South Cotabateño.
South Cotabato came second against Iloilo province this year.
