“Volunteerism is the quiet force that shapes population development through everyday acts of service that strengthen communities, empower individuals, and lay the foundation for sustainable growth.” These powerful words captured the spirit and intent of the 2025 Population Congress held at the South Cotabato Gymnasium and Cultural Center in Koronadal City on June 18, 2025.
Spearheaded by the Provincial Government of South Cotabato through the Office of the Provincial Population Officer, the congress carried the theme: “United for Population Congress: Volunteerism as a Catalyst.” The event brought together 440 participants, including Local Population Officers, Barangay Population Workers (BPWs), and program partners from Barangay Local Government Units (BLGUs), the religious sector, academic institutions, and private organizations across the ten municipalities of the province.
The gathering recognized the vital role of volunteerism in advancing population and development goals at the grassroots level. It underscored the importance of empowering communities through collaborative action, as well as sustaining population management programs such as Responsible Parenthood-Family Planning (RPFP), Adolescent Health and Development (AHD), and Gender and Development (GAD).
A key highlight of the congress was the recognition of outstanding Barangay Local Government Units for their unwavering commitment and excellence in implementing population initiatives. Brgy. Poblacion of the Municipality of Polomolok was awarded as Champion, followed by Brgy. Cebuano of Tupi as first runner-up, and Brgy. Poblacion of Tampakan as second runner-up.
Participants actively engaged in a series of activities that reflected both camaraderie and commitment to service. Traditional Filipino games under “Larong Pinoy” brought nostalgic excitement, while a raffle draw added a fun twist for BPWs. The event also paid tribute to the tireless dedication of 33 outgoing Barangay Population Workers and honored two late BPWs through a posthumous award—an emotional testament to the legacy of volunteer service in South Cotabato.
Distinguished guests included Hon. Junette I. Hurtado, Chairperson of the Committee on Women, Family Relations, and Gender Equality; Mr. Alvin Dwight F. Asentista, Population Program Officer III and Technical Head representing the Commission on Population and Development XII; and Mr. Rudy S. Jimenea, Provincial Information Officer and Provincial Nutrition Action Officer.
The 2025 Population Congress reaffirmed the province’s commitment to advancing people-centered development through dedicated partnerships and grassroots volunteerism. With the continued service of Barangay Population Workers and allied program partners, South Cotabato remains steadfast in its mission to deliver meaningful, inclusive, and sustainable development to every community.
