GLAN, Sarangani Province — In a historic week for local governance, the distance between the state and the grassroots was closed across three distinct communities. From May 4 to May 7, 2026, a joint force of the Provincial Task Force (PTF) Sarangani and the Municipal Task Force (MTF) Glan brought the government services directly to the communities.

Anchored on Executive Order No. 70 and the “Whole-of-Nation” approach, these caravans served as a tangible commitment to sustainable peace and inclusive development in areas transitioning toward long-term stability.

The highlight of the week took place on May 5 in Barangay Poblacion. Here, the traditional walls of bureaucracy were replaced by the open air, as the caravan was conducted under the shade of sprawling Acacia trees. This choice of setting symbolized a profound truth, the delivery of public service knows no venue. Whether in a modern hall or beneath the ancient branches of a community landmark, the government’s mission is to reach the people wherever they are.

The success of this mobilization was driven by the collaborative efforts of various national and local agencies, each providing specialized contributions to the 530 constituents served:

• DILG Region XII: Beyond coordination, the team fostered community care by distributing new slippers to children and disseminating 100 copies of IEC materials focused on Preventing and Countering Violent Extremism (PCVE).

• Health (MHO, PHO, & Ronda Probinsya): As the most sought-after pillar, they provided free medical and dental check-ups and essential medicines to 380 residents across the three barangays.

• Agriculture (OMAG, OPAG, DA, & DAR): These agencies distributed hundreds of assorted vegetable seeds and fruit-bearing trees, such as Langka and Marang, to ensure long-term food security.

• Livelihood & Education (TESDA, DOLE, & DAR): Empowered 178 residents through skills demonstrations in food processing and fertilizer making, alongside orientations on various livelihood programs.

• PSA & PhilSys: Facilitated the essential right to identity by conducting National ID registrations for 179 residents in Poblacion and Calpidong. • Social Welfare (DSWD & MSWDO): Provided critical counseling and social protection orientations for vulnerable sectors.

• Security & Safety (AFP, PNP, BFP, & PDEA): The AFP notably provided “Libreng Gupit” (free haircuts) for residents, while all agencies worked together to provide fire safety orientations and anti-illegal drug campaigns.

• Veterinary Services: The Municipal and Provincial Veterinary Offices secured community health by reaching 120 domesticated animals with anti-rabies vaccinations, deworming, and vitamin supplementation.

• Support Agencies (LCR, DOF/MTO, PhilHealth, & MENRO): Assisted with birth registrations, financial inquiries, PhilHealth registration, and environmental orientations. The impact was felt by various sectors of the community: from 241 men and 289 women who accessed vital social services, to the 109 children who represent the province’s future. Special attention was given to those most in need, with the mission successfully reaching 102 senior citizens and 53 Persons with Disabilities (PWDs), ensuring that the most vulnerable members of society were the first to feel government support and services.

The presence of local leaders—led by Municipal Mayor Victor James B. Yap Jr. and respective Punong Barangays of Barangay Lago, Poblacion, and Calpidong alongside the DILG XII team, stood as a powerful testament to a unified front. Through the synchronized efforts of PTF-Sarangani and MTF-Glan, these activities proved that coordinated governance is not just a strategy, but the most effective tool for community transformation.

Barangay Poblacion’s “Acacia-shaded” service now stands as a living blueprint for the entire region. It serves as a stirring reminder that when the government is willing to step out of the office and into the heart of the community, the roots of peace grow stronger and development becomes truly inclusive. This was a week where the “Whole-of-Nation” approach was felt in every pair of slippers distributed and every medical consultation provided.

These caravans represent a significant step toward a Sarangani Province that is resilient and empowered. They prove that genuine public service remains the strongest foundation for nation-building, ensuring that in the march toward progress, no Sarangan is ever left behind.