Koronadal City, South Cotabato — The Civil Service Commission has named South Cotabato provincial employee Romel Tison Evangelio as a national winner of the 2025 Gawad LingkodBayan ng Pangulo, recognizing his work that directly improved access and daily life in remote communities across the province.
Evangelio, who serves as Administrative Aide III or Driver I under the Provincial Government of South Cotabato, was honored for going beyond his official duties by initiating practical community innovations. Foremost among these is the tire path pavement project, a locally driven solution that transformed previously impassable muddy paths into usable access roads for residents in far flung areas.
The project enabled safer movement of people goods and basic services particularly in communities where conventional infrastructure projects are difficult to implement due to terrain and limited resources.
By improving access to roads residents gained better mobility in schools, markets, health facilities and government services.
In an interview Evangelio said his motivation is rooted in the response of the people he serves.
“Seeing residents smile and express gratitude after years of feeling disconnected from government services makes every challenge worthwhile and gives deeper meaning to my work,” he shared.
Meanwhile, Cris Pingkunn Fuentes, Project Development Officer II and Evangelio immediate supervisor, described him as an employee who consistently exceeds expectations.
“He willingly assists colleagues especially in tasks tsssssshat require additional manpower and shows initiative that inspires others within the organization,” Fuentes said about Evangelio.
The recognition highlights the Provincial Government of South Cotabato commitment to grassroots innovation and people centered governance under the leadership of Reynaldo S Tamayo Jr.
The award reinforces the province flagship thrust of bringing government closer to the people by ensuring that public service delivers tangible benefits at the community level.
The Gawad Lingkod Bayan ng Pangulo is the highest honor conferred by the Civil Service Commission. It is awarded to individuals or groups whose outstanding performance and innovations have made a significant impact on public interest national development and community welfare.
Evangelio recognition serves as a reminder that meaningful change in local governance can begin with simple ideas driven by dedication, sincerity and a strong sense of public service.
