In a concerted drive to ensure essential government services reach every corner, Barangay Katipunan in Arakan, Cotabato witnessed a significant and collaborative effort to support its residents.
On August 1, 2024, the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) XII, along with 20 national government agencies, converged at Barangay Katipunan to deliver crucial services through the Serbisyo Caravan, a part of the national government’s whole-of-the-nation approach to counter insurgency.
Spearheaded by the Provincial Government of Cotabato alongside with the Department of Industry XII, Department of Agrarian Reform, Department of 2 Agriculture, Department of Social and Welfare Development, Bureau of Fire Protection, Armed Forces of the Philippines, Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) provided essential services, including medical care, social support, and legal assistance, all at no cost to the community.
The Integrated Provincial Health Office (IPHO) conducted a Medical Mission offering free consultations, medications, pregnancy kits, and nutritious food through a feeding program. The Office of the Provincial Veterinarian (OPVet) provided a Veterinary Mission delivering vaccinations and vitamins for livestock. The Provincial Social Welfare and Development Office (PSWDO) distributed five kilograms of rice and canned goods, while the Office of the Provincial Agriculturist (OPAg) supplied fruit tree seedlings.
Additionally, the Metro Arakan Valley Complex (MAVC) distributed fruit trees for planting and tilapia fingerlings, and the Department of Agriculture (DA) provided bottled processed milk. The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) offered free haircuts and circumcision services, while the Philippine National Police (PNP) distributed slippers and school supplies to children. A total of 500 residents received various forms of government aid.
Arakan Mayor Jeam Villasor, Vice Mayor Girlie Montales, and Katipunan Punong Barangay Gilbert G. Jalipa expressed their deep gratitude to the government and to the provincial government for its support.
Representing Governor Mendoza at the event were Board Members Maria Krista A. Piñol-Solis, IPMR Indigenous Peoples Mandatory Representative Arsenio M. Ampalid, and PCL Federation President Rene Rubino.
Also present were DILG OIC Provincial Director Inecita C. Kionisala, Region 12 EO- 70 Focal Person Ian Clemente, DILG 12 Legal Officer Atty. Jane S. Torreon, PNP Maj. Ryan Feranil, and representatives from the AFP 72nd IB.
Local officials and stakeholders also organized a tree-planting activity before the start of the caravan.
This collective endeavor underscores the government's commitment to addressing grassroots communities' needs, fostering sustainable development and peace, and strengthening the relationship between the government and its citizens.
