South Cotabato to Receive Top Honors at 25th Gawad KALASAG Awards

The Province of South Cotabato continues to gain recognition for its exemplary performance in disaster preparedness and response as it is set to receive multiple awards during the 25th Gawad KALASAG National and Regional Awarding Ceremony on December 2, 2025, in General Santos City.

The Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (PDRRMC), chaired by Governor Reynaldo S. Tamayo, Jr., together with the Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (PDRRMO), led by Rolly Doane Cuenca Aquino, will be formally recognized for once again achieving the BEYOND COMPLIANT Rating in the Gawad KALASAG Seal, as well as receiving the Special Awards for Excellence in Disaster Risk Reduction and Management and Humanitarian Assistance for Calendar Year 2025.

The Gawad KALASAG Awards, conferred by the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC) through the Office of Civil Defense (OCD), honor local government units and organizations that demonstrate exemplary performance, innovation, and leadership in building disaster-resilient communities.

Governor Tamayo lauded the dedication of the PDRRMC, PDRRMO, and all partners in disaster management, emphasizing that these awards are a reflection of the province’s unity, preparedness, and commitment to the welfare of every South Cotabateño.

The Gawad KALASAG (KAlamidad at Sakuna LAbanan, SAriling Galing ang Kaligtasan) remains the highest distinction for excellence in disaster risk reduction and management in the Philippines, highlighting best practices in disaster preparedness, mitigation, response, and humanitarian assistance.

Through the leadership of Governor Tamayo and the commitment of the PDRRMC and PDRRMO, South Cotabato continues to set the standard for Tama at Maayos na Serbisyo, showcasing governance that is effective, compassionate, and truly deserving of pride by every South Cotabateño.