The Province of South Cotabato continues to earn national acclaim for its outstanding disaster preparedness and response initiatives, as it is set to receive top honors at the 25th Gawad KALASAG National and Regional Awarding Ceremony on December 2, 2025, in General Santos City.
The provincial disaster, risk and management office here will be recognized once again for achieving the “Beyond Compliant” rating in the Gawad KALASAG Seal and Special Awards for Excellence in Disaster Risk Reduction and Management and Humanitarian Assistance this year.
Governor Reynaldo Tamayo, Jr. commended the dedication and teamwork of the PDRRMC, PDRRMO, and all disaster management partners, emphasizing that the recognition reflects the province’s unity, preparedness, and commitment to public welfare.
“This recognition belongs to the people of South Cotabato. It is a testament to our collective effort and unwavering commitment to safety, resilience, and effective governance,” Governor Tamayo said.
Meanwhile, Rolly Doane C. Aquino, PDRRMO Chief, said that under Governor Tamayo’s leadership, South Cotabato continues to set the benchmark for “Tama at Maayos na Serbisyo”, promoting effective, compassionate, and people-centered governance that every South Cotabateño can take pride in.
The Gawad KALASAG—short for KAlamidad at Sakuna LAbanan, SAriling Galing ang Kaligtasan—is the highest national distinction for excellence in Disaster Risk Reduction and Management (DRRM) in the Philippines. It recognizes outstanding performance in disaster preparedness, mitigation, response, and humanitarian assistance.
This award giving body is conferred by the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC) through the Office of Civil Defense (OCD), honor local government units, institutions, and organizations that demonstrate exceptional innovation, leadership, and best practices in building disaster-resilient communities.
