Cotabato Province Governor Emmylou Taliño-Mendoza, during the culmination program of the weeklong festival on Tuesday, September 1, at The Basket in the Capitol Compound in Amas, Kidapawan City, thanked the people of Cotabato, including the 2,300 employees of the provincial government, for their unity, commitment, and collective strength in making the festival a legacy for present and future generations.
“No matter how small or big your role is, if you’re a utility, engineer, division chief, or driver, it does not matter. What’s important is that you give your best, because every single one, if we do it the right way, then we can see our province progressing and moving forward,” she said.
The Kalivungan Festival originated in 1974 in Kidapawan City on May 8. The term “Kalivungan” comes from the Manobo word meaning “gathering,” reflecting the celebration of the province’s cultural heritage.
The provincial government spearheads the annual celebration with the participation of the private sector.
Mendoza took the opportunity to recognize the dedication and efforts of provincial government employees in making the festival successful.
“So let us commit and let us always be reminded that public service rests on public trust. It is a big privilege to work with government, so always practice integrity, humility, and compassion at all times,” she said.
Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD)Secretary Rex Gatchalian, in his keynote speech read by DSWD Undersecretary Fatima Aliah Q. Dimaporo, said Cotabato has built its story for 112 years through the strength of its people by cultivating the land, creating jobs, and bringing communities together.
“What makes this legacy meaningful is not only the years that Cotabato has stood proudly in history, but the people who have helped shape this province along the way,” he said.
Gatchalian said the legacy carried by the people of Cotabato will continue to inspire future generations.
He reaffirmed DSWD’s continuing support for the province, particularly in ensuring that social protection reaches families and communities in need.
Among the programs he cited were the Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program (4Ps), Tara Basa! Program, Sustainable Livelihood Program(SLP), and Pamana livelihood program, among others.
He also cited the Makilala Integrated Peace Advocates(MIPA) Farmers in Barangay Malasila as one of the beneficiaries, receivingP300,000 in seed capital to strengthen their livelihood enterprise.
Gatchalian assured that DSWD, under his leadership, will continue its partnership with the local governments of Cotabato province. Judy Quiros
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