Pasig City, Metro Manila—The Provincial Government of South Cotabato was recognized by the DILG Central Office for its Civil Society Organization (CSO) Academy as a pioneering LGU in the Philippines, setting a benchmark for people’s participation and effective local governance.
The award cited South Cotabato’s outstanding commitment to advancing people’s participation in local governance by nurturing knowledgeable, empowered, and community-rooted grassroots leaders.
Serilo highlighted the shared achievement behind the honor, stating, “This milestone is a testament to the dedication of our CSOs, partners, and communities who continuously engage, collaborate, and lead. The Academy thrives because the people of South Cotabato believe in participatory governance and the power of collective action.”
The CSO Academy was also commended for strengthening civil society organizations, promoting active citizenship, and deepening democratic engagement at the local level.
Its pursuit of transparency, collaboration, and shared responsibility positions it as an inspiring model for CSO Academies nationwide, demonstrating how informed and capable citizens help build inclusive and responsive governance.
On behalf of Governor Reynaldo S. Tamayo, Jr., the award was received by CSO Academy Director Marlon C. Serilo, EnP, MPA, together with CSO Desk Officer Julius Caesar Maniego, DILG 12 ARD Samuel Camaganacan, DILG 12 Coordinator Ana Louwel Cabrido, and DILG South Cotabato Focal Robee Ponce De Leon during the Awards Night on December 10, 2025, at the Astoria Plaza Hotel in Pasig City, Metro Manila, part of the National CSO Academy Conference held from December 10 to 13, 2025.
