Koronadal City, South Cotabato | December 22, 2025-The Province of South Cotabato has been recognized as a Champion and Exemplar in Sustainable Development Goal 3: Good Health and Well-Being during the 2025 UN–SDG Achievement Champions and Exemplar (ACES) Awards, led by the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) in partnership with the United Nations in the Philippines, national government agencies, and development partners.
Out of 82 provinces nationwide, South Cotabato emerged as one of only three provinces to earn the distinction, with its health initiatives drawing both national and international recognition.
Undersecretary and Deputy Director-General 1 at Office of the President – National Anti-Poverty Commission Esnaen Catong congratulated Gov. Reynaldo Tamayo’s “transformative and outstanding leadership.
” The free hospitalization program is a champion and exemplar in the SDG 3: Good Health and Well-being Category” of the 2025 UN-SDG ACES Award,” Usec Catong posted in his Facebook account.
“Mabuhay ang South Cotabato at #ASEAN_Philippines,” he stressed.
The award puts the spotlight on the province’s flagship Free Hospitalization Program, launched on July 1, 2019, under the leadership of Governor Reynaldo Jr. Tamayo.
For residents, the program has meant more than free treatment. It has lifted financial burdens from families, expanded access to quality healthcare in far-flung communities, and strengthened trust in public service.
Over the years, its consistent implementation has resulted in life-changing outcomes, particularly for indigent patients and vulnerable sectors.
The recognition affirms South Cotabato’s commitment to compassionate, people-centered governance and reinforces its growing reputation as a model province in universal healthcare.
With the SDG 3 award, South Cotabato once again proves that responsive leadership can translate policies into real, lasting change, true to its banner, “Angat sa Lahat,” where no South Cotabateño is left behind.
