KORONADAL CITY, South Cotabato, Philippines | March 23, 2026 — Governor Reynaldo Tamayo Jr. has expanded South Cotabato’s early childhood care and development (ECCD) program, increasing the number of children served from 19,704 in 2019 to 134,072 in 2026.
Since 2019, the provincial government has constructed 70 ECCD centers to improve access to early learning and child support services.
“Study, because education is your ticket to a better future,” Tamayo said, highlighting his push for accessible education.
The ECCD centers were funded through P2,101,688 from the General Fund and P13,587,500 from the Special Education Fund.
Provincial Social Welfare and Development Officer Sonia Bautista said the program supports the governor’s education agenda.
“We start early because this is where learning begins,” Bautista said.
She added that the increase in beneficiaries reflects wider reach, especially in remote areas.
“From 19,704 to 134,072 children, we are reaching more communities and providing care, nutrition, and early education,” she said.
Tamayo also stressed the importance of investing in children.
“Our children represent our future,” he said.
The provincial government continues to strengthen early childhood services to ensure more children receive proper care and early education.
