The Provincial Government of South Cotabato continues to lead the way in promoting workplace wellness through the 2025 Weight Management Program: “Flab to Fab Challenge,” a flagship initiative under the Provincial Health, Wellness, and Safety Board (PHWSB) and the Provincial Human Resource Management Office (PHRMO).
Spearheaded by Governor Reynaldo S. Tamayo, Jr., the program builds on its success from last year’s relaunch, where the Governor personally provided ₱1 million worth of cash prizes to encourage employees to pursue a healthier lifestyle. After undergoing a medical operation last year, Gov. Tamayo saw firsthand the importance of health management through weight reduction, especially in achieving one’s normal body mass index (BMI).
“Governor Tamayo wants to help employees improve their health and achieve balance in both mind and body so they can render all-out service to the people of South Cotabato,” said Fredaliza P. Gaso, PHRMO Chief.
Themed “Push Mo Yan! Paliitin ang Tyan — Rebody for a Sexier Tummy,” the 2025 Weight Management Program continues to inspire provincial employees to commit to a healthier lifestyle through balanced nutrition, consistent exercise, and regular health monitoring.
Unlike typical weight-loss contests, the South Cotabato program applies a balanced set of criteria—evaluating weight reduction, nutritional status, and medical laboratory results—to ensure sustainable results and overall well-being.
Awardees and Recognitions
Healthy Office Category
Medium Office Sub-Category
Winner: Office of the Provincial Health Officer — Plaque + ₱70,000
Special Recognition: Office of the Provincial Human Resource Management Officer and Office of the Provincial General Services Officer — Certificates + ₱25,000 each
Big Office Sub-Category
Special Recognition: South Cotabato Provincial Hospital — Certificate + ₱40,000
Highest Percentage with Normal BMI
Winner: Office of the Provincial Health Officer — Plaque + ₱70,000
Individual Winners
Obese III Sub-Category
Special Recognition: Dereck Adrian T. Barcellano (OPT) — Certificate + ₱10,000
Obese II Sub-Category
1st Place: Hannah B. Baterbonia (SCPH) — with medal, certificate, and ₱75,000
2nd Place: Deque B. Alvarez (SCPH) — with medal, certificate, and ₱50,000
3rd Place: Julie Ann S. Piamonte (SCPH) — with medal, certificate, and ₱30,000
Special Recognition: Mary Maren M. Gunlao (SCPH) with certificate, and — ₱10,000
Obese I Sub-Category
1st Place: Elmer John P. Sumadic (OPHRMO) —with medal, certificate, and ₱60,000
2nd Place: Jeschelle N. Gallardo (OPHO) —with medal, certificate, and ₱30,000
2nd Place: Noel A. Gumban (OPE) —with medal, certificate, and ₱30,000
Special Recognition: Maricel S. Omay and Jerwin D. Concimino (SCPH) —with certificate, and ₱5,000 each
Overweight Sub-Category
1st Place: Philip C. Buhayan (OPG–SCGCC) —with medal, certificate, and ₱40,000
Underweight Sub-Category
1st Place: Princess Diane S. Hermo (NDH) — ₱10,000
2nd Place: Kateren L. De Los Reyes (OPE) — ₱10,000
More than 70 employees from various offices also received special recognitions and cash incentives for their commitment to healthier living.
As South Cotabato continues its “Flab to Fab Challenge,” the province remains a leading example of proactive and compassionate governance—proving that public service begins with a healthy, empowered, and well-balanced workforce.