2017 SOCCSKSARGEN Regional Development Report

Republic of the Philippines
NATIONAL ECONOMIC AND DEVELOPMENT AUTHORITY
REGIONAL OFFICE XII (SOCCSKSARGEN)
Koronadal City
FOREWORD
The 2017 Regional Development
Report (RDR) of the SOCCSKSARGEN Region
showcases the performance of the region
during the year. It provides detailed
assessment on the achievements made vis-a-
vis the targets set in the Regional Development
Plan (RDP) 2017-2022. The report also
accounts for the contributions of the various
sectors in pursuit of economic growth, poverty
alleviation, robust industry and service,
sustainable development in environment,
agriculture and fishery, accelerating
infrastructure, good governance and the rule
of law, peaceful and humane society, and
resilient communities. The accomplishments
in 2017 are the precursors for inclusive
growth, high-trust society, and a globally-
competitive knowledge regional economy by
2022.
Parallel to the Philippine Development Plan (PDP) 2017-2022 and RDP 2017-2022, the
report covers the region’s actions for the enhancement of the social fabric (Malasakit),
transformation towards inequality-reducing economy (Pagbabago), and increase in the
region’s growth potential (Patuloy na Pag-unlad). Despite the previous years’ challenges, the
year 2017 posts a turnaround as the regional economy recovers from a slump in the
agriculture sector. Higher growths were posted in the service and industry sectors. The
challenge remains for the region to sustain and/or to surpass its current performance.
Finally, the National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA) XII, as the
Secretariat of the Regional Development Council (RDC) XII, would like to acknowledge all the
regional line agencies, local government units, government-owned and controlled
corporations, private sector, non-government organizations, and the academe, for providing
the data and reports which constitute the substantial inputs for the completion of the report.
The support of the development partners affirms the commitment to provide all stakeholders
with relevant and necessary information about the development of the region and is vital for
the continued improvement of the delivery of basic services and providing equal opportunities
to the constituents of SOCCKSARGEN Region.
Abante Rehiyon Dose!
ARTURO G. VALERO, Ph.D.
Regional Director

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Contents
Chapter
No.
Title Page
No.
1 The Long View 1
2 Global and Regional Trends and Prospects 3
3 Overlay of Economic Growth, Demographic Trends and
Physical Characteristics
6
4 SOCCSKSARGEN Regional Development Plan Framework 8
5 Ensuring People-centered, Clean, and Efficient Governance 11
6 Pursuing Swift and Fair Administration of Justice 15
7 Promoting Philippine Culture and Values 19
8 Expanding Economic Opportunities in Agriculture, Forestry,
and Fishery
28
9 Expanding Economic Opportunities in Industry and Service
Through Trabaho at Negosyo
40
10 Accelerating Human Capital Development 50
11 Reducing Vulnerabilities of Individuals and Families 60
12 Building Safe and Secure Communities 67
13 Reaching for the Demographic Dividend 74
14 Science, Technology and Innovation 77
15 Ensuring Sound Macroeconomic Policy 81
16 Levelling the Playing Field through a Regional Competition
Policy
85
17 Attaining Just and Lasting Peace 87
18 Ensuring Security, Public Order and Safety 98
19 Accelerated Infrastructure Development 106
20 Ensuring Ecological Integrity, Clean, and Healthy
Environment
114
21 Plan Implementation and Monitoring 129
SOCCSKSARGEN Facts and Figures 131

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Tables
Table No. Title Page No.
1.1 Activities For Presenting AmBisyon Natin 2040, Region XII,
2017
1
2.1 Gross Regional Domestic Product, by Industrial Origin (In
Thousand Pesos), by Percentage Growth Rates, 2015-2016
and 2016-2017
5
5.1 Key Accomplishments of CSC XII, CY 2107, Regionwide 13
6.1 Jail Facilities under the Administration and Management of
BJMP XII, 2017
16
6.2 Jail Management Priority Programs, Projects, Activities,
Region XII, CY 2018
17
7. 1 List of Outstanding Volunteers, Region XII, CY 2017 21
7.2 Status of CADT Application and the ADSDPP, Region XII, CY
2017
25
7.3 List of Socio-economic Projects Implemented, Region XII, CY
2017
26
7.4 List of Educational Assistance Provided to IP students,
Region XII, CY 2017
27
8.1 Palay Production (metric tons), Region XII, CY 2016 and
2017
28
8.2 Rice Interventions/Programs, Region XII, CY 2017 29
8.3 Corn Production (metric tons), Region XII, 2016 and 2017 30
8.4 Livestock and Poultry Inventory, Region XII, 2016 and 2017 31
8.5 List of Major Programs/Activities Implemented by the PCA
XII in CY 2017
34
8.6 Fish Production (metric tons), Region XII, CY 2016 and 2017 35
8.7 List of Major International Events Participated by Region XII
Agricultural Entrepreneurs in CY 2017
36
8.8 Results Matrix to Expand Economic Opportunities in
Agriculture, Hunting Forestry, and Fishery
39
9.1 List of Major Investments, Region XII, 2017 41
9.2 Accomplishments of MSMEs in Region XII, 2016 and 2017 43
9.3 Key Accomplishments in 2017 by Major Indicator, 2016 and
2017
44
9.4 Mining Companies Audited by MGB XII, 2017 45
9.5 Tourist Arrivals, Region XII by Area, 2016 and 2017 46
9.6 Total Number of Foreigners, Region XII per Area, 2017 47
9.7 Accomplishments of Cooperatives, Region XII by Major
Indicator, 2016 and 2017
48
9.8 Plan Targets in Outcomes to Expand Opportunities in
Industry and Services, Region XII, 2017
49
10.1 Number of TVET Enrolees, Region XII, 2017 50
10.2 Number of TVET Graduates, Region XII,2016 and 2017 51
10.3 Number of Scholarship Slots, Region XII, 2016 and 2017 52

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List of Tables Continued
10.4 Number of Skilled Persons Assessed and Certified, Region
XII, 2017
52
10.5 Number of Enrolees and Graduates in Higher Education,
Region XII, 2017
53
10.6 Number of Faculty Staff with Post-Graduate Studies, Region
XII, 2017
53
10.7 Selected Indicators on Basic Education, Region XII, 2016 and
2017
55
10.8 Selected Indicators on Health and Sanitation, Region XII,
2016 and 2017
56
10.9 Indicators on Health Insurance, Region XII, 2016 and 2017 57
10.10 Results Matrix on TVET, Region XII, 2016 and 2017 58
10.11 Results Matrix on Basic Education, Region XII, 2016 and
2017
59
10.12 Results Matrix on Higher Education, Region XII, 2016 and
2017
59
11.1 Number of Poor Household Covered by CCT, Region XII, 2016
and 2017
60
11.2 KALAHI Projects Implemented, Region XII, 2016 and 2017 61
11.3 Core Social Protection Indicators, Region XII, 2016 and 2017 62
11.4 Number of Students Placed under the SPES Program, Region
XII, 2016 and 2017
64
11.5 Number of Job Fairs and Jobseekers Placed for Employment,
Region XII
64
11.6 Results Matrix to Reduce the Vulnerabilities of Individuals
and Families, Region XII, 2016 and 2017
66
12.1 New Work Housing Projects, Region XII, 2017 67
12.2 Number of Completed Housing Units, Region XII, 2016 and
2017
68
12.3 Carry-over Housing Projects, Region XII 68
12.4 Comparative Matrix SGLG Disaster Preparedness Profile
Passers, Region XII
70
12.5 SGLG Indicators for LGU Disaster Preparedness Profile,
Region XII, CY 2016/2017
71
12.6 Results of 20th Gawad KALASAG Search, Region XII, 2017 72
12.7 Accomplishments for Housing Projects, Region XII, CY 2016
and 2017
73
13.1 Population Growth, Region XII, CY 2015 74
13.2 Age Dependency of the Population (In Percent), 2000 and
2010
75
13.3 Need and Demand for Family Planning among Currently
Married Women, Region XII, 2017
76
13.4 Results Matrix for Maximizing the Demographic Dividend 76
14.1 STI Facilities established/upgraded/assisted, Region XII,
2017
78

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14. 2 STI Key Accomplishments by Major Indicator, Region XII,
2017
79
14.3 Plan Targets to Vigorously Pursue Science, Technology and
Innovation
80
15.1 Key Accomplishments of BLGF XII, CY 2107, Regionwide 82
15.2 Banking Institutions in Region XII, As of 2017 84
15.3 Number of Municipalities without Banks, by Province,
Region XII, 2017
84
16.1 Top 30 CMCI Most Competitive LGUs, Region XII, 2017 86
17.1 PAMANA Projects Implemented in Region XII, 2017 92
17.2 Participants in School of Peace Capacity Building Program,
Region XII, 2017
95
17.3 Results Matrix to Attain Just and Lasting Peace, 2017-2022 97
18.1 Crime Prevention and Anti-Illegal Drug (Demand Reduction)
Activities, Region XII
100
18.2 Police Visibility and Response, Region XII, 2016 and 2017 101
18.3 Crime Solution and Crime Clearance Efficiency, Region XII,
2016 and 2017
101
18.4 Accomplishment on Anti-Illegal Drugs Campaign, Region XII,
2016 and 2017
102
18.5 Accomplishment on Ensuring Public Safety, Region XII, 2016
and 2017
103
18.6 Results Matrix to Ensure Security, Public Order and Safety 104
19.1 Roads and Bridges Projects, Region XII, 2017 107
19.2 General Santos City Accomplishment by Major Indicator,
Region XII, CY 2016 and 2017
108
19.3 Irrigation Programs and Projects, Region XII, CY 2017 110
19.4 Number of Households with Access to Improve or Safe Water
Supply, Region XII
110
19.5 Results Matrix to Accelerate Strategic Infrastructure
Development
112
20.1 Emission Inventory (Tons), Region XII, CY 2017 115
20.2 Wastewater Discharge Permit Issued, Region XII, CY 2016
and 2017
118
20.3 Number of LGUs with Forest Land Use Plans, Region XII, CY
2016 and 2017
118
20.4 Forest Cover, Region XII, CY 2016 and 2017 120
20.5 List of Mining Permits/Contracts Reviewed/Endorsed for
Cancellation, CY 2017
123
20.6 ECC and CNC Accomplishment, Region XII, CY 2016 and 2017 124
20.7 Results Matrix to Ensure Ecological Integrity, Clean, and
Healthy Environment
126
21.1 List of Other Intra-regional and Bypass Roads, Road
Networks for Development and Funding
129
21.2 List of Ongoing and Completed Intra-regional and Bypass
Roads, Region XII, 2017
130

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Figures
Figure
No.
Title Page
No.
2.1 Sector Share in SOCCSKSARGEN Economy, 2017 4
3.1 The Regional Spatial Development Strategy, 2015-2045 7
4.1 SOCCSKSARGEN RDP Framework with Corresponding Plan
Chapters
10
7.1 Location of Major Tribes, Region XII, 2017 24
8.1 High-Value Crops Production (metric tons), Region XII, 2016
and 2017
32
9.1 BOI-assisted Investments, Region XII, 2017 41
9.2 Value of Exports, Region XII, 2016 & 2017 42
9.3 Tourist Arrivals, Region XII by Area, 2017 46
10.1 Number of TVET Graduates per Province, Region XII, 2017 51
11. 1 Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program Fund Allocation, Region
XII, 2017
61
13.1 Total Fertility Rate vtrends of the Philippines 75
20.1 ENGP Plantation Establishment, Region XII, CY 2017 121
20.2 Map of Monitored Illegal Logging/Timber Poaching Activities,
Region XII, CY 2017
122
Images
Image
No.
Title Page
No.
17.1 Design Template for CARHRIHL Banner in Government Projects
in Region XII
88
17.2 Template Design for Banner Identifying Schools as Zones of Peace 95

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Acronyms
4Ps Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program
ACPRP Accelerated Coconut Planting/Replanting Program
ADSDPP Ancestral Domain Claims and the Ancestral Domain Sustainable
Development and Protection Plan
AEP Alien Employment Permits
AEW Agri-Extension Workers
AFET Alternative Fuels and Energy Technology
AFP Armed Forces of the Philippines
AGS Agricultural Grade Salt
AHFF Agriculture, Hunting, Forestry and Fishing
AIP Annual Investment Plan
ALAB Alay sa Bayan
AMCR Average Monthly Crime Rate
AOR Area of Responsibility
ARMM Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao
ARTA-RCS Anti-Red Tape Act Report Card Survey
ASCES Association of South Cotabato Earth Savers
ASEAN Association of Southeast Asian Nations
BASIL Balik Sigla sa Ilog at Lawa Program
BBL Bangsamoro Basic Law
BDRRMC Barangay Disaster Risk Reduction Management Committee
BFAR Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources
BFP Bureau of Fire Protection
BI Bureau of Immigration
BIMP-EAGA Brunei Indonesia Malaysia Philippines-East ASEAN Growth Area
BJMP Bureau of Jail Management and Penology
BLGF Bureau of Local Government Finance
BNS Barangay Nutrition Scholar
BOD Biochemical Oxygen Demand
BOI Board of Investments
BPBH Balik Pinas Balik Hanapbuhay Program
BPLS Business Permit and Licensing System
BrEDP Branding Equity Development Program
BSP Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas
BSWM Bureau of Soil and Water Management
BTC Bangsamoro Transition Commission
BUC Bishops-Ulama Conference
CAAMS Continuous Ambient Air Quality Monitoring Stations
CAB Comprehensive Agreement on the Bangsamoro
CACW Competency Assessment and Certification for Workers
CADT Certificate of Ancestral Domain Title

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CALT Certificate of Ancestral Land Title
CAPR Cooperative Annual Progress Report
CARHRIHL Comprehensive Agreement on Respect for Human Rights and
International Humanitarian Law
CBDRRM Community-Based Disaster Risk Reduction Management
CCB Contact Center ng Bayan
CCC Climate Change Commission
CCE Crime Clearance Efficiency
CCEDP Coconut-Cacao Enterprise Development Program
CCSPC Cotabato City State Polytechnic College
CCT Conditional Cash Transfer
CCTV Closed Circuit Television
CDA Cooperative Development Authority
CDP Comprehensive Development Plan
CHLCP Community Household Level Coconut Processing Enterprise
CIDSS Comprehensive Integrated Delivery of Social Services
CIP Coconut Intercropping Program
CIS Communal Irrigation System
CJS Criminal Justice System
CK Cotabato City-Kidapawan
CLUP Comprehensive Land Use Plan
CMCI Cities and Municipalities Competitive Index
CNC Certificate of Non-Conformance
CO Carbon Monoxide
COA Commission on Audit
COCOBED Coconut-Coffee Based Enterprise Development
CoP Culture of Peace
CSC Civil Service Commission
CSE Crime Solution Efficiency
CSPP Conflict-Sensitive, Peace-Promoting
CSWDO City Social Welfare and Development Office
CVOs Civilian Volunteer Organizations
CY Calendar Year
DA Department of Agriculture
DAR Department of Agrarian Reform
DARE Drug Abuse Resistance Education
DBM Department of Budget and Management
DC Department Circular
DDB Dangerous Drugs Board
DENR Department of Environment and Natural Resources
DepEd Department of Education
DILG Department of the Interior and Local Government
DILP DOLE Integrated Livelihood Program
DND Department of National Defense
DO Dissolved Oxygen
DOE Department of Energy
DOLE Department of Labor and Employment

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DOS Datu Odin Sinsuat
DOST Department of Science and Technology
DOT Department of Tourism
DOTr Department of Transportation
DPWH Department of Public Works and Highways
DSWD Department of Social Welfare and Development
DTI Department of Trade and Industry
DTI Department of Trade and Industry
DUTERTE Drug Use and Trafficking Elimination through Rehabilitation
Training and Enforcement
EbA Ecosystem-Based Adaptation
ECC Environmental Compliance Certificate
ECPs Environmental Critical Projects
EIA Environment Impact Assessment
EICC Energy Investment Coordinating Council
ENGP Enhanced National Greening Program
EnP Environmental Planner
EO Executive Order
eSRE electronic Statement of Receipts and Expenditures
EWS Early Warning System
FC Fecal Coliform
FLEMMS Functional Literacy, Education and Mass Media Survey
FLUP Forest Land Use Plan
FSSP Food Staple Self-Sufficiency Program
FTAA Financial or Technical Assistance Agreement
FWP Family Welfare Program
GAA General Appropriations Act
GAD Gender and Development
GAMPC Greenland Asparagus Multipurpose Cooperative
GIA Grant-in-Aid
GIMC GRCO-Isulan mining Corporations
GIP Government Internship Program
GOCC Government-Owned and Controlled Corporation
GPH Government of the Philippines
GRDP Gross Regional Domestic Product
GSC General Santos City
HEDP Household Electrification Development Program
HH Household
HUC Highly Urbanized City
HVC High-Value Crops
HVCCs High-Value Commercial Crops
HVT High Value Target
IB Infantry Battalion
ICCs Indigenous Cultural Communities
ICS Incident Command System
ID Infantry Division
IEC Information, Education and Communication

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IGS Isulan-General Santos
ILO International Labour Organization
InfraCom Infrastructure and Utilities Development Committee
IP Indigenous Peoples
IPAAD Integrated Public Advisory and Analysis Display Solution
IPMR Indigenous Peoples Mandatory Representative
IRR Implementing Rules and Regulation
IRRI International Rice Research Institute
ISFs Informal Settler Families
ISO International Standard Organization
IWMP Integrated Watershed Management Plan
JMC Joint Monitoring Committee
JMSP J. Marquez School of Peace
JTFC Joint Task Force Central
KALAHI-CIDSS Kapit Bisig Laban sa Kahirapan-Comprehensive Integrated
Delivery of Social Services
KALASAG KaIamidad at Sakuna Labanan, Sariling Galing ang Kaligtasan
KEDP Kaanib Enterprise Development Program
LAWIN Landscape and Wildlife Indicator System
LCCAP Local Climate Change Action Plan
LDRMMC Local Disaster Risk Reduction Management Council/Committee
LDRRM Local Disaster Risk Reduction Management
LDRRMO Local Disaster Risk Reduction Management Office/Officer
LET Licensure Examination for Teachers
LGCDD Local Government Capability Development Division
LGU Local Government Unit
LMAG Lebak-Maasim-Alabel-Glan
LOI Letter of Instruction
LRT Local Revenue Tax
LSWDOs Local Social Welfare and Development Offices
LVT Low Value Target
MDRRMC Municipal Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council
MGB Mines and Geosciences Bureau
MILF Moro Islamic Liberation Front
MMK Malinis at Masaganang Karagatan Program
MNLF Moro National Liberation Front
MOA Memorandum of Agreement
MPP Mineral Processing Permit
MPSA Mineral Production Sharing Agreement
MRF Material Recovery Facility
MSMEs Micro, Small, And Medium Enterprises
MT Metric Tons
MW Megawatts
NAPOLCOM National Police Commission
NBC Net Borrowing Capacity
NCAIDC North Cotabato Agro-industrial Development Corporation
NCC National Competitive Council

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NCCA National Commission on Cultures and Arts
NCIP National Commission for Indigenous Peoples
NCIP National Crime Information Program
NCPW National Crime Prevention Week
NDFP National Democratic Front of the Philippines
NDRRMC National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council
NDSC Net Debt Service Ceiling
NDU Notre Dame University
NEDA National Economic and Development Authority
NGAs National Government Agencies
NGP National Greening Program
NHA National Housing Authority
NIA National Irrigation Administration
NIS National Irrigation System
NPA New People’s Army
NPK Nitrogen, Phosphorous, Potassium
OAP Organic Agriculture Program
OCD Office of Civil Defense
OFWs Overseas Filipino Workers
OPAPP Office of the Presidential Adviser on the Peace Process
OPV Open Pollinated Variety
OSY Out-of-School Youth
PA Philippine Army
PAMANA Payapa at Masaganang Pamayanan
PCA Philippine Coconut Authority
PCCI Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry
PCECP Philippine Conventional Energy Contracting Program
PCG Philippine Coast Guard
PCIA Peace and Conflict Impact Assessment
PCO Pollution Control Officers
PDEA Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency
PDNGR Philippine Downstream Natural Gas Regulation
PDP Philippine Development Plan
PDPFP Provincial Development and Physical Framework Plan
PDRRMC Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction Management Council
PeaceEd Peace Education
PESFA Private Education Student Financial Assistance
PhilGEPS Philippine Government Electronic Procurement System
PIA Philippine Information Agency
PIP Public Investment Program
PM Particular Matter
PMC Philippine Marine Corps
PMO Port Management Office
PNP Philippine National Police
PNVSCA Philippine National Volunteer Service Coordinating Agency
POs People’s Organization
PPAS Programs, Projects, Activities and Services

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PPAs Programs, Projects and Activities
PPE Personal Protective Equipment
PRA Philippine Retirement Authority
PRAISE Program on Awards and Incentives for Service Excellence
PRIME-HRM Program to Institutionalize Meritocracy and Excellence in
Human Resources Management
PRO Police Regional Office
PSA Philippine Statistics Authority
PWD Person with Disability
QRRPAs Quarterly Report on Real Property Assessments
R&D Research and Development
RADL Regional Animal Diagnostic Laboratory
RBS Radio Broadcasting Services
RC3 Regional Competitiveness Coordinating Committee
RDC Regional Development Council
RDIP Regional Development Investment Program
RDP Regional Development Plan
RDR Regional Development Report
RDRRMC Regional Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council
RE Renewable Energy
RLAs Regional Line Agencies
RMIC Regional Mango Industry Council
ROLL-IT Road for Leveraging Linkages for Industries and Trade
RPCRD Regional Police Community Relations Division
RPMC Regional Project Monitoring Committee
RPT Real Property Tax
RSDF Regional Spatial Development Framework
RTIL Runway Threshold Indicator Light
RTWPB Regional Tripartite Wage and Productivity Board
SAIDS Sustainable Agri-Industrial Development Strategy
SAR Search and Rescue
SCPCs Student Crime Prevention Committees
SDDCI South Davao Development Co. Incorporated
SDGs Sustainable Development Goals
SETUP Small Enterprises Technology Upgrading Program
SGLG Seal of Good Local Governance
SHES Safety and Health, Environmental and Social Development
Program
SIAD Sustainable Integrated Area Development
SIRV Special Investor’s Resident Visa
SKPC Summer Kids Peace Camp
SLP Sustainable Livelihood Program
SLTs School of Living Traditions
SMI Sagittarius Mines, Inc.
SMVs Schedule Market Values
SNVM Special Non-Voting Member
SOCA State of the Nation Address

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SOCCSKSARGEN South Cotabato, Cotabato Province, Cotabato City, Sultan
Kudarat, Sarangani, General Santos City
SONA State of the City Address
SOPA State of the Province Address
SP Sangguniang Panglungsod
SP Sangguniang Panlalawigan
SPES Special Program for the Employment of Students
SPMS Strategic Performance Management System
SPTs Southern Philippines Terrorists
Sq. m. Square Meter
SRA Sugar Regulation Administration
SSF Shared Service Facility
SSM Small-Scale Mining
STARBOOKS Science and Technology Academic and Research-based
Openly Operated Kiosk Stations
STDPs Strategic Tourism Development Plans
STI Science, Technology, and Innovation
STW Shallow Tube Wells
SUCs State Universities And Colleges
SWDI Social Welfare Development Indicator
SWEET Solid Waste Enforcers and Educators Team
SWIP Small Water Impounding Project
SWM Solid Waste Management
TESDA Technical Education and Skills Development Authority
TMC Tribal Mining Corporation
TOP Trial Operation Program
TRAIN Tax Reform for Acceleration and Inclusion
TSD Treatment, Storage and Disposal
TSS Total Suspended Solids
TUPAD Tulong Pangkabuhayan sa Ating Disadvantaged/Displaced
Workers
TVET Technical-Vocational Education and Training
TWSP Training for Work Scholarship Program
UCT Unconditional Cash Transfer
UNESCO United Nations Educational Scientific and Cultural Organizations
USM University of Southern Mindanao
WDP Wastewater Discharge Permit
WESM Wholesale Electric Spot Market
WQMA Water Quality Management Area
YLS Youth Leadership Summit
ZOD Zero Open Defecation

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Chapter 1
The Long View
The SOCCSKSARGEN Region stakeholders supports the long-term vision of “matatag,
maginhawa at panatag na buhay by 2040.” In order to make this aspiration a reality,
the Regional Development Council (RDC) XII passed Resolution Number 37, Series of
2016, “Enjoining All LGUs and RLAs in Region XII to Align their Programs and Projects
with the AmBisyon Natin 2040.” Thus, in 2017 as a prelude to the planning activities
and workshops of different line agencies and local government units, the AmBisyon
Natin 2040 was presented to create awareness and orient the participants on the
country’s long-term vision as adopted by the region.
RDC XII also passed Resolution Number 108, Series of 2016, “Adopting the
SOCCSKSARGEN AmBisyon Natin 2040 Song to Advocate the Country’s Long-Term
Vision.” The song was composed and arranged by Mr. Ryan Gazo and sang by the
National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA) XII chorale. To support its
advocacy, the song is regularly played during the weekly convocations of regional line
agencies, as well as during the preliminary activities of meetings.
Private stakeholders in the region, especially those from the academe, positively
responded as they heeded the call, advocated, and requested for an orientation on
AmBisyon Natin 2040.
Table 1.1 below presents the list of activities where the RDC XII secretariat would
present the AmBisyon Natin 2040, as well as the Philippine/Regional Development
Plans 2017-2022.
Table 1.1: Activities for Presenting AmBisyon Natin 2040, Region XII, 2017
Activities Remarks
ASEAN Youth Forum  Series of activities facilitated by the Philippine
Information Agency (PIA) XII on March 16, 17, 31,
May 23, July 28, and August 30, 2017 in the cities
of Koronadal, Kidapawan, Tacurong, Cotabato
and the province of Sarangani.
 Secondary and tertiary level students from public
and private schools attended the activity.
Kapihan sa PIA  A recorded broadcast was aired for the entire
month of June 2017. The target stakeholders are
the media group and general public in the region
done on June 27, 2017 and hosted by the PIA XII.

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Table 1.1 Activities for Presenting AmBisyon Natin 2040
Activities Remarks
PIA Radio Program-Informing
and Performing
 NEDA XII acted as resource person on the
invitation of DXKI Radio Station in Koronadal
City for their public service segment that
discussed the AmBisyon Natin 2040 on June 28,
2017. The activity was aimed at informing the
general public about the AmBisyon Natin 2040.
Cotabato City State Polytechnic
College (CCSPC) Batch '88
Reunion
 Batch 1988 of CCSPC was oriented on AmBisyon
Natin 2040 at London Beach Resort, General
Santos City on July 22, 2017.
International World Youth Day The media, faculty and students, as well as the
officials and staffs of the City Government of
Tacurong were oriented on AmBisyon Natin
2040 on August 12, 2017.
AmBisyon Natin, Philippine
Development Plan (PDP) and
Tax Reform for Acceleration
and Inclusion Act (TRAIN)
Students and faculty of the Notre Dame
University in Cotabato city were oriented on
AmBisyon Natin 2040 and PDP on August 12,
2017.
Regional Strategic Workshop
for Aligning the Sustainable
Development Goals (SDGs) into
the Provincial Development
and Physical Framework Plans
(PDPFPs)/City/Municipal
Comprehensive Development
Plans (CDPs)
Several activities were facilitated by the
Department of the Interior and Local
Government (DILG) XII on August 9-11, 16-18,
23-25, 29-31, and on September 6-8, 2017, to
give an orientation on AmBisyon Natin 2040 for
the members of the provincial/municipal/city
development councils of the 4 provinces, 5
cities, and 45 municipalities of the region
AmBisyon Natin 2040, PDP,
and RDP 2017-2022
presentation for Civil Service
Commission (CSC) XII
CSC XII staff were oriented on Ambisyon Natin
2040 and RDP on September 25, 2017 in
Cotabato City.
AmBisyon Natin 2040, PDP,
and RDP 2017-2022
presentation for Department of
Agriculture (DA) XII
Staff of DA XII and its attached bureaus, as well
as its provincial/city/municipal counterparts
were oriented on the aforementioned topic as a
prelude to the updating of the Agriculture and
Fishery Modernization Plan (AFMA) 2018-2023
and on the Investment Programming Workshop
on October 4 and November 27-28, 2017 in the
cities of Koronadal and Kidapawan.
Source of data: NEDA XII

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Chapter 2
Global and Regional Trends and
Prospects
SOCCSKSARGEN (Region XII) spans a geographical zone covering major portions of the
Mindanao River Basin and Buayan-Malungon River Basin areas comprising the
provinces of Cotabato (North), Sultan Kudarat and South Cotabato extending to the
large coastal areas in the southern tip portion of Mindanao containing the province of
Sarangani and the City of General Santos. It covers a total land area of 19,035.39 square
kilometers or 16.6 percent of the total land area of Mindanao. SOCCSKSARGEN is
endowed with resources that can enable the region attain higher growth levels given
the needed infrastructure support and the conducive environment for attracting more
investments that are expected to generate more jobs.
SOCCSKSARGEN’s Economy Speeds up as Agriculture, Hunting,
Forestry and Fishing (AHFF) Sector Recovers
The Gross Regional Domestic Product (GRDP) refers to the total value of final goods
and services produced in the region for a given period of time. In 2017, the regional
economy expanded by 8.2 percent, faster than the 4.9 percent growth posted in 2016.
The positive performance was triggered by the recovery of the AHFF Sector from a
two-year slump due to extreme dry season in 2015 and 2016.
The Agriculture, Hunting, Fishery and Forestry sector registered a very substantial
increase as it rebounded from a negative 9.5 percent in 2016 to an 8.7 percent growth
in 2017. Agriculture and Fishery vastly improved from a 6.8 percent contraction in
2016 to expand by 8.2 percent in 2017. Fishing likewise rebounded from a 20.6 percent
drop in 2016 to grow to 11.2 percent in 2017.
The Industry sector grew by 8.4 percent in 2017 but at a slower pace compared to the
13,1 percent growth in 2016. Manufacturing, which accounted for the bulk of the Industry,
increased by 10.3 percent in 2017 from 8.4 percent in 2016. Mining and Quarrying also
accelerated by 8.0 percent in 2017 from 7.2 percent in 2016. Construction expanded though
at a slower pace from 23.9 percent in 2016 to 10.4 percent in 2017. On the other hand,
Electricity, Gas and Water Supply declined by 7.0 percent in 2017, a reversal from the 24.4
percent growth a year ago.

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The Services Sector sustained its 7.6 percent growth as four (4) of its subsectors grew faster
in 2017. Other Services and Trade posted higher growths in 2017, from 9.4 percent to 9.8
percent, and from 7.4 percent to 8.0 percent, respectively. Public Administration and
Defense from 5.6 percent to 6.2 percent and Transportation, Storage and Communication
from 4.5 percent to 6.1 percent also outpaced their previous performances. Financial
Intermediation expanded by 7.6 percent in 2017, slower than the 9.9 percent recorded in
2016. Real Estate, Renting and Business Activities decelerated from 8.4 percent in 2016 to
6.5 percent in 2017.
In terms of contribution by industry group, the Services Sector continued to account
for the largest share of the region’s GRDP at 40.2 percent. It was followed by the
Industry Sector with a share of 36.8 percent while the AHFF Sector recorded the least
share at 23.0 percent. By sub-industry group, the manufacturing sector recorded the
biggest share at 24.9 percent and followed by AHFF with 18.9 percent.
Figure 2.1 presents the contribution of Service, Industry and AHFF Sectors to the
SOCCSKSARGEN economy in 2017.

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Table 2.1 presents the performance of the SOCCSKSARGEN economy as measured by
the GRDP at Constant 2000 Prices.
Table 2.1: Gross Regional Domestic Product (GDRP) by Industrial Origin and Growth
Rates (In %), SOCCSKSARGEN, 2015-2016 and 2016-2017
(In Thousand Pesos at Constant 2000 Prices)
INDUSTRY/SECTOR
Level (P’000) Growth Rate (%)
2016 2017 2015-2016 2016-2017
I. AGRICULTURE, HUNTING,
FORESTRY AND FISHING
48,789,967 53,052,437 -9.5 8.7
a. Agriculture and Forestry 40,454,221 43,779,899 -6.8 8.2
b. Fishing 8,335,746 9,272,538 -20.6 11.2
II. INDUSTRY SECTOR 78,338,015 84,935,539 13.1 8.4
a. Mining and Quarrying 569,374 615,015 7.2 8.0
b. Manufacturing 52,188,627 57,555,063 8.4 10.3
c. Construction 17,088,518 18,868,159 23.9 10.4
d. Electricity, Gas and Water
Supply
8,491,496 7,897,302 24.4 -7.0
III.SERVICES SECTOR 86,054,388 92,610,172 7.6 7.6
a. Transportation, Storage
and Communication
15,258,751 16,184,090 4.5 6.1
b. Trade and Repair of Motor
Vehicles, Motorcycles,
Personal and Household
Goods
21,287,805 22,992,438 7.4 8.0
c. Financial Intermediation 10,683,035 11,489,916 9.9 7.6
d. Real Estate, Renting and
Business Activities
12,928,407 13,772,905 8.4 6.5
e. Public Administration and
Defense; Compulsory
Social Security
7,578,926 8,050,899 5.6 6.2
f. Other Services 18,317,464 20,119,924 9.4 9.8
Source of data: PSA

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Chapter 3
Overlay of Economic Growth,
Demographic Trends and Physical
Characteristics
The Regional Spatial Strategy
The SOCCSKSARGEN Regional Spatial Development Framework (RSDF) defines the
region’s desired spatial structure based on trends on population, economic activities,
and services. It recognizes the increasing roles of cities, particularly the urban areas,
as drivers and venues for growth and poverty reduction. It also promotes spatial
integration through a well-connected network of settlements and service centers.
Region XII continued to adopt the Sustainable Agri-Industrial Development Strategy
(SAIDS) to realize its vision as an agri-industrial hub and ecotourism center in
southern Philippines. The spatial strategy would propel the establishment of ecozones
that will support the region’s industry clusters. Specifically, the spatial strategy
focuses on Tri-Corridor Development that shall develop the main and potential
corridors involving the establishment of small- to medium-scale processing centers,
agriculture and commercial hubs, ecotourism spokes, centers for social opportunities,
housing connected by infrastructure support facilities and made resilient by
mainstreaming disaster risk reduction and climate change adaptation at all stages of
the planning process. There shall be three main corridors as follows:
A. The Cotabato City-Kidapawan City (CK) Agri-Industrial and Eco-Tourism
Corridor
The first corridor is the Cotabato City-Kidapawan City (CK) Agri-Industrial and Eco-
Tourism Corridor. The primary growth node in this corridor is Cotabato City with
Kidapawan City and Midsayap as intermediate urban centers. The major industries
that shall be promoted in this corridor are agri-industrial and eco-tourism
development. The economic activities in this corridor could be influenced by the
development of Regions XI, X and the ARMM.
B. The Isulan-General Santos (IGS) Agri-Industrial and Eco-Tourism Corridor
The second corridor is the Isulan-General Santos (IGS) Agri-Industrial and Eco-
Tourism Corridor. General Santos City shall be the primary growth node in this
corridor with the cities of Koronadal, Isulan and Tacurong as intermediate urban
centers.

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C. The Lebak-Maasim-Alabel-Glan (LMAG) Coastal Development Zone
The third corridor shall be along the coastal area of the region called the Lebak-
Maasim-Alabel-Glan (LMAG) Coastal Development Zone. The primary growth nodes
in this corridor are Lebak, Kalamansig, Alabel and Glan with Kiamba and Maasim as
the intermediate urban centers. Maitum shall be an ecotourism destination.
Figure 3.1: The Regional Spatial Development Strategy 2015-2045
Source of data: NEDA XI

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Chapter 4
SOCCSKSARGEN Regional Development
Plan Framework
The SOCCSKSARGEN RDP, 2017-2022, adheres to Executive Order No. 5, Series of 2016
(Approving and Adopting the Twenty-Five-Year Long Term Vision Entitled Ambisyon
Natin 2040 as Guide for Development Planning). The EO mandates that the succeeding
four (4) administrations of government shall craft and implement their development
plans towards the achievement of AmBisyon Natin 2040 for a Matatag, Maginhawa, at
Panatag na Buhay.
Realizing the strategies and achieving the committed targets in the RDP under the
Duterte Administration necessitates that the entire nation, composed of both the
government and the private sector, must adopt an integrated and holistic approach in
pursuing development and the AmBisyon Natin 2040.
With the issuance of Executive Order No. 27, Series of 2017, President Rodrigo Duterte
directed all departments, offices, and instrumentalities of the national government,
including government-owned and controlled corporations and local government units
to adopt, disseminate, and undertake efforts for the full implementation of the
Philippine Development Plan (PDP), 2017-2022 (including the RDP) and the Public
Investment Program (PIP), 2017-2022. The issuance of said presidential directive is
critical given that the PDP/PIP (including the RDP/RDIP) shall serve as the official
guide on all matters pertaining to the Philippines’ and Region XII’s socioeconomic
development. With President Duterte’s instructions, all development strategies and
objectives contained in the regional and local development plans should be consistent
and aligned with the SOCCSKSARGEN RDP, 2017-2022.
The SOCCSKSARGEN RDP, 2017-2022 was approved and adopted through RDC XII
Resolution No. 77, Series of 2016. The Council decided to completely follow the same
outline of the PDP which would include 21 chapters to ensure that Region XII is able to
account its contribution to the program thrusts and priorities of President Duterte.
Enumerated below are the description and elements of the RDP framework which
corresponds to RDP chapters.
A basic requirement for inclusive development is that all the people in the country shall
carry the pride of being a Filipino and that the people fully trust the government.
Hence, it will need the pillar on Malasakit at both ends – from the government and from
the citizens. It includes 3 chapters, namely: a) Chapter 5-Ensure people-centered,
clean, and efficient governance; b) Pursue swift and fair administration of justice; and
c) Promote Philippine culture and values.

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The Pagbabago pillar seeks to make it easier for the marginalized subsectors and basic
sector groups to participate in economic progress. Five chapters support the
attainment of strategies under this pillar: a) Chapter 8-Expanding economic
opportunities in Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries; b) Chapter 9-Expanding economic
opportunities in Industry and Services through Trabaho at Negosyo; c) Chapter 10-
Accelerating Human Capital Development; d) Chapter 11-Reducing Vulnerability of
Individuals and Families; and e) Chapter 12-Building Safe and Secure Communities.
In previous plan periods, the focus of the government was pursuing economic growth
within the term of the current leadership. For 2017-2022, the government intends to
lay down the foundation of an economic growth that can be further accelerated and
sustained beyond the six-year term of the Duterte Administration. With the goal of
laying down a robust foundation for a sustainable economic growth, the increasing
growth potential or Patuloy na Pag-unlad pillar will employ strategies that will help in:
a) Chapter 13-Pursuing an efficient population management to enable its citizens to be
productive and engaged in economic activities; and b) Chapter 14-Promoting science,
technology use and innovation to drive long-term growth of the economy. Both
strategies are new additions to the plan, as the government acknowledges the
importance of harnessing the vast potential of a well-managed population and
vigorously advancing science, technology, and innovation (STI) in pursuing
sustainable economic growth.
Ensuring sound macroeconomic policy and enhancing market competition will
provide an enabling and supportive economic environment necessary to support the
implementation of the strategies geared towards Pagbabago and Patuloy na Pag-unlad.
There are two (2) chapters that will focus on implementing the strategies contained in:
a) Chapter 15-Ensuring a sound macroeconomic policy; and b) Chapter 16-Leveling
the playing field through a National Competition Policy.
The strategies under the pillars of Malasakit, Pagbabago and Patuloy na Pag-unlad will
be supported by a solid foundation of peace and security (Chapter 17 and 18), balanced
and strategic infrastructure development (Chapter 19) and ecological isntegrity
(Chapter 20).
Not included in the framework but equally important chapters because they establish
the economic environment and physical resources are Chapters 2, 3, 4 that cover global
and regional prospects, economic growth, demographic trends and physical
characteristics, and guiding development framework. The final Chapter which is
Chapter 21 discusses plan implementation through priority projects and the
monitoring structure and mechanisms adopted in the SOCCSKSARGEN RDP, 2017-
2022.

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Figure 4.1 presents the framework of SOCCSKSARGEN RDP reflecting the
corresponding plan chapters.
Figure 4.1: SOCCSKSARGEN RDP Framework with Corresponding Plan
Chapters

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Chapter 5
Ensuring People-Centered, Clean, and
Efficient Governance
A high-trust society broadens the opportunities for inclusive development. A high-
trust society provides the necessary condition for facilitating official and business
transactions, as well as interpersonal relationships. This trust is between the citizens
and the people, the private sector, and the government. Citizens obey the law and they
willingly pay the correct taxes trusting that the government will prudently manage the
fiscal resources. Government, in turn, is able to allocate adequate resources for public
goods and services, especially to those who need them most. The needy who benefit
from the prompt delivery of adequate services are then accorded better chances of
achieving more in life. The taxpaying public, meanwhile, is able to pursue further their
economic and other interests, secure in the knowledge that their rights over the fruits
of their labor are protected, primarily by the government and also by their fellow
citizens.
The cornerstone of a high-trust society is the trust in government. This chapter
discusses strategies to ensure a people-centered, clean, efficient, and effective
governance by strengthening institutions, engaging and empowering citizens, and
providing enabling mechanisms to improve access to public goods and services.
Among the highly commendable steps for the government is to adopt a Good
Governance Framework and to strictly abide by its rules and regulations.
A. Good Governance
The conduct of Anti Red Tape Act Report Card Survey (ARTA-RCS) by the Civil Service
Commission (CSC) XII to high density/most complained government agencies in the
region was substantially completed in 2017. The ARTA-RCS is a client feedback survey
used to gather information on how the 52 regional line agencies (RLAs) in the region
comply with the provisions of their Citizen’s Charter. The ARTA-RCS is also a tool to
gather information/estimates of hidden costs incurred by clients when accessing
frontline services, as well as to rate the agency’s performance vis-à-vis client
satisfaction in relation to frontline service delivery. The survey’s focus is aligned with
the 2017-2022 Philippine Development Plan whose thrust of upholding public service
excellence is linked to increasing competitiveness and ease of doing business, as well
as building trust in public institutions. Frontline service offices covered were: Bureau
of Fire Protection, Bureau of Internal Revenue, Bureau of Customs, Department of
Health hospitals, Department of Social Welfare and Development, Department of Trade
and Industry, Food and Drug Administration, Government Service Insurance System,
Home Development Mutual Fund, Land Registration Authority, Land Transportation
Office, Philippine Health Insurance Corporation, Philippine Ports Authority, Securities
and Exchange Commission, Social Security System, and local government units.

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In 2017, only the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI)-Sarangani Provincial Office
obtained an Excellent rating in ARTA-RCS, while the rest got either Good or Acceptable
rating.
The CSC XII also subjected a total of 38 agencies in the region to Citizen’s Charter
Validation and ARTA Watch. The ARTA Watch was conducted as a spot check of
agency’s compliance to the provisions of the ARTA, such as the posting of the Citizen’s
Charter, wearing of Citizen’s Charter identification cards, operationalization of the
Public Assistance and Complaints Desk, posting of Anti-Fixer campaign posters, the
observance of the “No Noon Break” Policy, and No Hidden Costs. All Frontline Service
Providers are gauged according to the quality of service provided, the physical setup
in the workplace, and the basic facilities utilized that would ensure client satisfaction.
In 2017, the Seal of Excellence Award was conferred to the Social Security System
(SSS)-Cotabato City Branch for besting the rest of the agencies in the region in terms
of compliance to the provisions of ARTA after a series of verification and validation if
indeed the agency is consistent in providing excellent services to its clients. It can be
recalled that SSS-Cotabato City got an Excellent Rating in ARTA-RCS in 2015. The
award is composed of a Four-Star Seal of Excellence, a wall-mounted glass seal bearing
the Seal of Excellence Logo, and a cash reward of Php20, 000.00.
Among the on-going program of CSC XII for improving, as well as for assessing and
accrediting the HRM systems and processes of agencies is the Program to
Institutionalize Meritocracy and Excellence in Human Resources Management
(PRIME-HRM). It is a mechanism design to elevate the HRM of the public sector to a
level of excellence through the assessment, assistance and award processes. With the
guidance of the assessors, PRIME-HRM helps agencies examine their current maturity
and proficiency level in the four core HR areas, namely: recruitment, selection and
placement; performance management; learning and development; and rewards and
recognition. These tackle HRM systems, practices and competencies and utilized HRM
maturity level indicators that meet global standards. Maturity levels indicate how well
an organization’s behaviors, practices and processes can reliably and sustainably
produce the desired outcomes. The Maturity Levels are as follows: Maturity Level 1-
Transactional HRM; Maturity Level 2-Process-Defined HRM; Maturity Level 3-
Integrated HRM; and, Maturity Level 4-Strategic HRM.
As of 2017, several other agencies in the SOCCSKSARGEN Region were recognized and
awarded for meeting the PRIME-HRM Maturity Level 2 standards under the
Performance Management System and a total of 82 or 100 percent of agencies under
CSC XII jurisdiction that have approved and functional Strategic Performance
Monitoring System (SPMS).
CSC XII also continued its quasi-judicial function in ensuring fairness and efficiency by
resolving/providing decisions to all disciplinary and non-disciplinary cases filed in the
agency. Cases filed shall have to be resolved within thirty (30) days from submission.

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Table 5.1: Key Accomplishments of CSC XII, Regionwide, CY 2107
Indicator
2017
Accomplishment
2017
Target
2016
Accomplishment
Growth
(%)
(2) Vs (4)
(1) (2) (3) (4)
1. Number of Competency
Exams Conducted
5 2 3 133.3
2. Number of Capability-
Building Programs/
Training for Government
Workforce, i.e., ALAB,
etc., Conducted
100 40 64 154.7
3. Number of Performance
Management Programs
of All Agencies i.e.,
Public Resource
Management, Results
Delivery and Frontline
Services Implementation
Monitored
38 38 71 -
Source of data:
B. Transparency
The Seal Good Local Governance (SGLG) Award recognizes the performance of the local
government units in the areas of transparency and diligence to comply with the ARTA,
bringing investment and employment through business-friendly and competitive
environment, protecting the constituents from threats to life and security, and
safeguarding the integrity of the environment. In 2017, Region XII has a total of 54
LGUs that passed the Good Financial Housekeeping, a component of the SGLG award.
Of these, 14 LGUs were listed as SGLG awardees for the year. The following are the
awardees: the provinces Cotabato and South Cotabato; the cities of Cotabato,
Kidapawan and Tacurong; and the municipalities of Kabacan, M’lang and Pigkawayan
of Cotabato, Kiamba and Malungon of Sarangani, Surallah and Tupi of South Cotabato,
Bagumbayan and Columbio of Sultan Kudarat. The 2017 SGLG was upgraded from 3+1
to 4+1 principle. The Peace and Order was added to the core areas originally
composed of Financial Administration, Disaster Preparedness, and Social Protection,
while Tourism, Culture and Arts was added in the essential areas originally
composed only of Environment Management, and Business-Friendliness and
Competitiveness. The 4+1 principle means that an LGU must comply with the four (4)
core areas plus at least one (1) essential area in order to qualify as an SGLG awardee.
To have participatory governance, the following programs were enforced: Bottom-Up
Budgeting approach to local planning and budgeting; LGUs local poverty reduction
action plan; Kapit Bisig Laban sa Kahirapan-CIDSS and the Citizen Participatory Audit
Program.

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In ensuring public access to information, the full disclosure policy mandated all
national government agencies, LGUs and GOCCs to register in the Philippine
Government Electronic Procurement System (PhilGEPS) for the invitation to bids and
awarding of contracts. It is also encouraged to have internet accessibility and make
information available online in government websites.
Public employees are obliged to diligently prepare and submit their Statement of
Assets, Liabilities and Networth (SALN) to warrant that wealth gained are from
compensation and not from unlawful sources.
The certification of frontline services with ISO 9001 Certified Quality Management
System will reduce processing time and would ease the services in doing business
following ISO standards.
C. Government Procurement
Based on the result of a focus group discussion, failure in government bidding could be
attributed to the following: poor planning due to problems on technical specifications,
end-user’s delay in procurement report, no detailed engineering, poor cost estimates;
leadership issues; BAC members do not know their work due to inadequate training;
and incompetence of procurement personnel.
The findings of the Office of the Ombudsman revealed the following procurement
problems in the government: collusion bidding (pre-arranged bidding), ghost projects
and ghost bidding; and falsification/excessive irregularity.

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Chapter 6
Pursuing Swift and Fair
Administration of Justice
Swift, fair, and administration of justice that is without delay is fundamental in a
democracy like the Philippines and critical to the fulfillment of the long-term vision of
the Filipinos of a matatag, maginhawa, at panatag na buhay. Moreover, this
development strategy is essential in building the public’s trust towards the
government which is a commitment of President Rodrigo Duterte to the Filipino
people. This chapter of the SOCCSKSARGEN Regional Development Plan (RDP), 2017-
2022 is anchored on the Philippine Development Plan (PDP), 2017-2022, thus,
emphasizing the significance of shifting from an institution-based to a sector-based
approach in the administration of justice. An efficient and effective cooperation
among the five pillars of the criminal justice system (CJS)—law enforcement,
prosecution, courts, correction, and community—is necessary for the shift. Reforms
have been initiated, but will need to be further intensified and accelerated.
A. Jail Management
 Provide adequate manpower complement (jail wardens and guards).
 Provide logistics support to properly respond to the needs of the population and
the community.
 Address the congested jail facilities to safeguard the welfare of inmates.
 Support the rehabilitation/improvement/expansion and construction of jail and
other related facilities.
 Increase in subsistence allocation for inmates according to the prevailing price of
food commodities.
 Provide a special cell for children in conflict with the law, particularly those who
are recidivists or repeat offenders.
In 2017, significant milestones were achieved in the area of jail management,
particularly in the safekeeping and development of inmates. As one of the five pillars
of the CJS, it is important that standard humanitarian treatment are given to detainees
who are accused before a court but are temporarily confined in jails managed by the
Bureau of Jail Management and Penology (BJMP) XII because their cases are still
undergoing investigation and waiting final judgement, as well as those who are serving
sentence promulgated by the court three (3) years and below.

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The accomplishments during the period under review were anchored on the four (4)
major programs, as follows: a) inmates custody, security and control program; b)
inmates welfare and development program; c) decongestion program; and d) good
governance. As provided for under Republic Act 6975, the BJMP is mandated to take
operational and administrative control over all city, district and municipal jails.
Table 6.1 presents the 14 jail facilities where BJMP XII has jurisdiction.
Table 6.1: Jail Facilities under the Administration and Management of
BJMP XII, 2017
Area and Name of Jail Facility
I. Cotabato Province  Polomolok District Jail
 North Cotabato District Jail  Koronadal City District Jail
 Pigcawayan District Jail IV. Sultan Kudarat
 Kabacan District Jail  Sultan Kudarat District Jail
 Makilala District Jail  Tacurong City Jail
 Kidapawan City District Jail V. General Santos City
II. Sarangani  General Santos City Jail
 Alabel District Jail  General Santos City Female Dorm
 Malapatan District Jail VI. Cotabato City
III. South Cotabato  Cotabato City Jail
Source of data: BJMP XII
In 2017, a total of 28 Jail Officer 1 (JO1) consisting of 18 males and 10 females were
hired in response to the objective of augmenting the inadequate manpower
complement of jail wardens and custodians in the region. In terms of logistical support
to properly respond to the needs of the inmates and wardens, a prisoner’s van was
procured and five (5) units of Tanfolgio 9mm pistol were issued to BJMP XII. To
address the over-congested jail facilities which reached a regionwide congestion rate
of 600 percent, funding was provided for an additional building in the Kidapawan City
District Jail. Moreover, during its 57th Regular Meeting, RDC XII passed Resolution No.
49, Series of 2017 entitled: “Supporting and Endorsing the Proposed Construction of a
Two-Storey Jail Building in Cotabato City for Department of Budget and Management
(DBM) Funding.” The resolution was forwarded to DBM XII with a project cost under
capital outlay of PhP 18 million. The building has a total floor area of 496.80 square
meters with eight (8) cells and each cell could accommodate 10 inmates based on ideal
set-up. In addition, the procurement and installation of CCTVs, as well as rehabilitation
of dilapidated jail facilities were given priority to support the strategy of
rehabilitation/improvement/expansion of jail facilities in the region.

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B. Immediate Direction to Address Jail Management Concerns in
SOCCSKSARGEN Region
For CY 2018, BJMP XII was given priority funding allocation under the 2018 General
Appropriations Act (GAA) to sustain the implementation of programs/projects/
activities that would respond to the strategies in the RDP, 2017-2022 (Table 6.2).
Table 6.2: Jail Management Priority Programs, Projects, Activities, Region XII
for CY 2018
Programs/Projects/
Activities
Location
Amount
(Pesos)*
Status
A. Capital Outlay for New Jail Facilities
1. One (1) Type B Building Cotabato City Jail 8,100,000.00 For
construction
2. Two (2) Type A Building General Santos
City Jail
28,372,000.00 For
construction
3. One (1) Type B Building General Santos
City Female Dorm
8,100,000.00 For
construction
4. One (1) Type B Building Tacurong City
District Jail
8,100,000.00 For
construction
5. One (1) Type B Building Koronadal City
District Jail
8,100,000.00 For
construction
6. One (1) Type C Building Malapatan Distict
Jail
4,000,000.00 For
construction
7. One Type B Building Makilala District
Jail
8,100,000.00 For
construction
8. Construction of Perimeter
Fence
Cotabato City Jail 3,000,000.00 For
construction
B. Safekeeping and Development of all Districts, City and Municipal Jail
Inmates and Services
1. Security and Management
of Inmates
Regionwide 1,515,200.00 Ongoing
2. Jail Decongestion Regionwide 1,821,275.61 Ongoing
3. Improvement and
Maintenance of Jail
Facilities and Equipment
4. Provision of Basic Needs
Prisoner’s Subsistence
Allowance
Health Care Services Regionwide 28.411,730.00 Ongoing
5. Behavioral Development
Education Services Regionwide 80,000.00 Ongoing
Physical Fitness Program Regionwide 302,120.00 Ongoing
6. BJMP XII Greening
Program and Climate
Change Adaptation
Regionwide 20,000.00 Ongoing

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Table 6.2 Jail Management Priority Programs, Projects, Activities, Region XII,CY 2018
Programs/Projects/
Activities
Location
Amount
(Pesos)*
Status
C. Administration and Governance
1. Professionalization of Jail
Services
2. Productivity
Enhancement
3. Managerial Capability
Build-up
4. Morale and Welfare of
Personnel
5. Plans and Programs
Development
*2018 GAA
Source of data: BJMP XII

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Chapter 7
Promoting Philippine Culture
and Values
Filipino values are our own inimitable accumulation of consistent ideologies, moral
codes, ethical practices, and etiquette that are held important in our lives that influence
our cultural beliefs and practices. Additionally, the Filipino culture is acknowledged as
one of the significant factors that shaped the Philippine society and the country’s
socio-economic growth. Thus, among the priority agenda of this chapter is to protect
and preserve Philippine cultural heritage towards the achievement of sustainable
development and significantly contribute to the achievement of the Pagbabago pillar
of the SOCCSKSARGEN RDP 2017-2022.
Inculcating and Reviving Traditional Filipino Values
The Filipinos have an established values system which is believed as an essential part
of their lives. The said value system includes the unique accumulation of consistent
ideologies, moral codes, ethical practices, etiquette, cultural, and personal values that
are upheld by the society. It must also take into consideration the fact that individual
values would differ from other individuals even if they belong to the same community
because of the influence of religion, upbringing, and other factors such as kinship,
obligation, friendship, and commercial relationships.
A. Filipino Values Formation
Filipino values have evolved even prior to the first formal learning. The parents are
often considered as the first teachers in a Filipino household. In SOCCSKSARGEN,
among the best practices implemented on values formation by LGUs and other
institutions in CY 2017 are as follows:
 The City Government of Cotabato through the City Social Welfare and Development
Office (CSWDO) adopted and implemented the story-telling project called “Kwento
ni Lolo at Lola” for daycare children. It is now forming a regular program in all 62
daycare centers of the City. The grandparents served as surrogate parents to day
care center kids. The program mechanism is simple and very modest, in which the
CSWDO select a group of elderly or senior citizens to become storytellers. They
were also mandated/encouraged to teach basic character values, praying methods
and to practice the traditional way of showing respect for elders, such as seeking
the hand blessing and having their foreheads touched by the hands of elders. The
project also aimed at creating a productive opportunity for the senior citizens/the
grandparents. As of CY 2017, there were 236 elderly (55 males and 176 females)
who assisted in the story-telling project and which now had served 3,514 pre-
school children.

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 Green Leadership Camp for elementary, secondary, and tertiary students. The
activity was initiated by the region’s first-ever recognized national volunteer and
licensed Environmental Planner (EnP), retired Col. Celestino F. Desamito, Jr. While
leadership skill is being developed during the activity, the participants are also
exposed to lectures on nationalism and the love of country as well as the right
values and behavior in caring for Mother Nature, such as environmental
preservation and protection.
 Summer Kids Peace Camp (SKPC). It is one of the special programs initiated by
Gov. Emmylou J. Taliño-Mendoza of Cotabato Province to inculcate in the minds of
the young Cotabateños the peace and culture-sensitivity as they engage, discover,
and develop their skills. For CY 2017, the 7th SKPC was conducted and about 30, 000
fifth grade pupils from the different municipalities of the province participated.
B. Strengthening Integrity in Governance
Filipino values are essential in the achievement of good governance. The government
plays a very crucial role in bringing back these values and in institutionalizing it in the
system of governance.
In CY 2017, the province of South Cotabato was able to sustain its campaign in
mainstreaming the mechanisms of integrity on the organization, programs, projects
and activities it implements and, on the services, they are providing to their
constituents. The provincial government provides tools and continuous capability
training to its employees to uphold the values of integrity while serving its
constituents.
C. Volunteerism as Filipino Way of Life
The RDP recognizes volunteerism as one of its guiding principles in the pursuit of
development. Republic Act No. 9418 or the “Volunteer Act of 2007” promotes and
exemplifies that volunteerism shall be inculcated in every Filipino as its way of life.
An annual search for outstanding volunteers is being facilitated by NEDA XII which
aims to highlight the exemplary performance and dedication to service of Filipino volunteers
in helping people and communities and recognize the role of volunteerism in development and
nation-building. In CY 2017, the region was able to validate and recognize seven (7)
regional winners for their outstanding and exemplary works in various fields. Table
7.1 enumerates the outstanding volunteers in the region.

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Table 7. 1: List of Outstanding Volunteers, Region XII, CY 2017
Regional Volunteer Awardee Outstanding and Exemplary works
1. Fulung Dan B. Alim of General Santos
City is a Person with Disability (PWD)
and a member of the Indigenous
Peoples (IPs)
Established the PWD General Santos
City Multi-Purpose Cooperative and a
Panagdait Awardee on his contribution
as IP partner in the peace effort. For him,
“Do Not Focus On Disability, But On The
Ability”.
2. Bautista C. Agbay of Maitum,
Sarangani is a recipient of DSWD’s
2016 Bayani Ka! Award.
Spearheaded the construction of Mabay
Housing Project under Kapit-Bisig Laban
sa Kahirapan-Comprehensive Integrated
Delivery of Social Service (KALAHI-
CIDSS).
3. Association of South Cotabato
Earth Savers (ASCES) is a non-profit
organization based in Tampakan,
South Cotabato who acts as
environmental vanguard.
Their activities led to the apprehension
of 162,052.03 board feet of illegally cut
lumber and implementation of
reforestation projects along the Roxas
Mountain Range.
4. Junelia E. Domel of Tantangan, South
Cotabato is a consistent Outstanding
Barangay Nutrition Scholar (BNS)
Regional Awardee and placed 5th at
the national level search for
outstanding BNS
Promoted quality health and nutrition in
her barangay and instrumental in
strengthening families and couples
relationship.
5. Regalado P. Bantilan of Tboli, South
Cotabato
Initiated the unification of interfaith
leaders in Tboli to help maintain peace
and order and promote moral recovery
program in the community. His motto in
life is “Born to lead, called to serve”.
6. Norma G. Adamat of Kidapawan City
is a retired teacher and a Girl Scout
troop leader.
Led the organization of the largest
contingent of cha cha cha in Kidapawan
City in 2016 defeating India as the holder
of the Guinness Book of World Record.
7. Jowahdi M. Salik, a youth volunteer
of Cotabato City
Helped Muslim communities in terms of
environmental concerns and on
peacebuilding in conflict-affected
schools in the region and the province of
Maguindanao.
Source of data: NEDA XII and PNVSCA

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Promotion of Filipino Culture and Arts
A. Mainstreaming Cultural Sensitivity among the Filipinos in
SOCCSKSARGEN
Cultural sensitivity is the awareness of the existence of cultural differences and
similarities between people without assigning them a value – positive or negative,
better or worse, right or wrong. It merely means that each individual is cognizant that
people are not all the same, and that a person recognizes that one’s own culture is no
better than any other culture. Moreover, it implies that all cultural groups understand
and must respect the characteristics of others.
In CY 2017, the National Commission on Cultures and Arts (NCCA) forged partnerships
with several Indigenous Peoples’ Tribal Organizations in SOCCSKSARGEN to develop a
project in which cultural sensitivity will be mainstreamed and promoted in the
communities and among Indigenous Peoples (IP). The said undertaking was also
guided by the National Commission for Indigenous Peoples (NCIP) XII and the
Indigenous Peoples Mandatory Representatives (IPMRs) in the region. The
partnership focused on the discussions about disputes among different IP groups in
the area and aimed at providing relevant and timely information on the existing
traditional justice system which is still applied to community issues involving the IPs,
particularly the T’boli people.
B. Culture and Arts Festivals
The NCCA provides funds to support the community’s effort to preserve and promote
their culture and traditions. The community festivals are considered as an avenue
where the community can showcase their skills, artistry, and other traditional crafts to
a much broader and wider audience.
In CY 2017, NCCA supported the conduct of the Lemlunay Festival in Lake Sebu, South
Cotabato and the Kafeonan in Lebak, Sultan Kudarat. The Lemlunay Festival features
tribal rituals that starts early at dawn to the sounds of gongs and ethnic music, leading
to the town plaza where cultural dances and ethnic sports are held. It is also known
as the T’boli Tribal Festival which came from the belief of the T’boli in a golden age that
they call Lemlunay meaning “the good place one goes to in the afterlife”. The term
Lemlunay is likened to a paradise that they would like to make for their tribe. It is a
place where the people reenergize and renew their vow to work for such a coveted
state of life. The festival also united the 6 major tribes of South Cotabato (T’boli, Ubo,
Manobo, Kalagan, Maguindanao, Tasaday) together with representatives from the
different tribes of Davao (Tirurays, Mandaya, Surigao tribes, Langilan, B’laan, Bagog,
Mansaka).
On the other hand, the Kafeonan Festival showcased the culture, traditions, and
contemporary arts and dances of the different groups in Mindanao through theatre and
dances.

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The region also hosted the first Budayaw-BIMP-EAGA Festival on Culture and the
Arts. The five-day event gathered about 300 contemporary artists and indigenous
cultural masters to celebrate harmony in diversity. The Budayaw activities were
anchored on the theme “Taking pride in the creative diversity of the BIMP-EAGA
region.” The festival simultaneously showcased the creative works of cultural masters,
artists, and cultural practitioners coming from Brunei, Indonesia, Malaysia, and
Philippines.
The Philippines put into the limelight the rich culture, heritage, and artistry of
Mindanao and Palawan. Budayaw showcased the diversity of creative expressions of
cultural masters and artists in the four countries that comprise BIMP-EAGA. It also
raised awareness and fostered appreciation of the landscapes, lifescapes, and
aspirations of peoples of the region as it featured different lectures, workshops,
performances, shows, exhibits, and other activities and events to enhance
understanding and solidarity among the multicultural populations of the BIMP-EAGA.
C. School of Living Traditions
The School of Living Traditions (SLTs) were established as a response to the United
Nations Educational Scientific and Cultural Organizations (UNESCO) call for the
preservation of ethnic traditions and to ensure their diffusion to the next generations.
It is where a living master teaches skills and techniques of doing a traditional art or
craft.
As of CY 2017, there are six (6) functional SLTs in the region which are located in Lake
Sebu, South Cotabato and Malungon, Sarangani. The SLTs in Lake Sebu teach the young
Tbolis on traditional embroidery, T’nalak weaving, and chanting. Meanwhile, the
Sarangani B’laan SLT in Sitio Lamlifew, Malungon was established through the efforts
of the provincial government in its aim to protect the cultural heritage of the
Indigenous Peoples (IPs) of Sarangani.
The Indigenous Peoples of SOCCSKSARGEN
A. Profile of SOCCSKSARGEN Indigenous Cultural Communities
The people of SOCCSKSARGEN are among the Filipinos who are resilient and survivors
of the fittest. The people of this region came from five (5) major tribes, namely: T’boli,
B’laan, Manobo, Teduray, and Maguindanaon.
The B’laans are the most populated among these tribes. They have an estimated
population of 450,000 and flourish in the provinces of Sarangani, South Cotabato, and
Sultan Kudarat.

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The second most populous tribe of the region is the Maguindanaon having a total
population of 239, 356 and they mostly thrive in Cotabato Province, Sultan Kudarat,
and Sarangani.
The Teduray tribe is the third largest tribe in the region with a population of about
67,745. The Tedurays in the region are found in the cities of Cotabato and Tacurong,
the municipalities of Columbio, Isulan, Bagumbayan, Esperanza, Kalamansig and
Lebak, Sultan Kudarat Province; municipalities of Alamada, Carmen, Kabacan,
Midsayap, Pikit, Antipas, Arakan, President Roxas, Tulunan, and in Kidapawan City in
Cotabato Province.
The Obo Manobo are among the least populated ethnic group in the region with a total
population of 36,126 and live in the province of Cotabato. The T’boli who settled in the
mountain ranges of South Cotabato is the least populated ethnic group in the region.
The center of the T’boli culture is within the central part of a triangle whose points are
the towns of Surallah, Polomolok and Kiamba and along this triangle are found the
three major lakes: Lake Sebu, Lake Lahit, and Lake Selutan where the tribe settled
around the lakes.
Figure 7.1 shows the geographical distribution or location of the five (5) major tribe in
SOCCSKSARGEN region.
Figure 7.1: Location of Major Tribes, Region XII, 2017
Source of data: NCCA

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B. Ancestral Domain Claims and the Ancestral Domain Sustainable
Development and Protection Plan (ADSDPP)
The issuance of Certificate of Ancestral Domain Title (CADT)/Certificate of Ancestral
Land Title (CALT) plays a vital role in securing the indigenous peoples (IPs) security of
tenure over their ancestral domains/land which is essential for attaining sustainable
peace and development within their P communities.
Table 7.2 shows that in CY 2017, a total of 27 CADT applications were approved
covering about 575,053.30 hectares, while nine (9) applications are still on the
evaluation and processing stage with an estimated coverage of 133, 978.735 hectares.
Table 7.2 Status of CADT Application and the ADSDPP, Region XII, CY 2017
Source of data: NCIP XII
Pursuant to RA 8371 or the Indigenous Peoples Rights Act, the IPs are required to
formulate an ADSDPP to ensure their capacity in developing their ancestral domains/
land. In CY 2017, three (3) ADSDPPs belonging to the Erumanen and Teduray Tribe in
Pigcawayan in Cotabato, Manobo Dulangan Tribe in Kalamansig, Sultan Kudarat, and
the B’laan tribes in Maitum and Kiamba, Sarangani were formulated and submitted to
the Ancestral Domain Office of the National Commission on Indigenous Peoples (NCIP)
XII.
C. Culturally Responsive Socio-Economic Programs
Among the priority strategies of the Regional Development Plan (RDP) 2017-2022 is
the provision of equal access of the IPs/ICCs to basic social services and to sustainable
livelihood programs.
In CY 2017, the NCIP XII allotted PhP 3.46 Million to fund the 16 socioeconomic-
related projects that would uplift the IPs from poverty and become more productive
citizens. A total of 169 IPs benefitted from various projects provided within the year.
Table 7.3 provides the details of projects implemented.
PROVINCE CADT Issued
CADT
Application on
Process
Number of
Hectares
Covered
ADSDPP
Formulated
Cotabato 10 4 127, 820.98 1
South
Cotabato
8 1 166,604.61
Sultan
Kudarat
4 3 32,440.72 1
Sarangani 5 1 248,187.15 1
Region XII 27 9 575,053.50 3

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Table 7.3: List of Socio-economic Projects Implemented, Region XII, CY 2017
Project Title Location Remarks
Sustainable Organic
Farming
Brgy. Numoh, Maasim,
Sarangani
Provision of training and
planting materials (banana,
etc.) to 25 IP farmers.
Brgy. Tagbac, Magpet,
Cotabato Province
planting materials (banana,
etc) to 27 IP farmers.
Tabih Weaving and
Albong making for B’laan
ICCs/IPs
Brgy. Danleg, Tamapakan,
South Cotabato
materials to 25 IP women
and youth.
Traditional costume and
beads making
Brgy. Bacung, Tulunan,
Cotabato Province
Provision of training, sewing
machines, and other
necessary materials to 25 IP
women and youth.
Kalamansig, Sultan
Kudarat
machines, and other
necessary materials to 35 IP
women and youth.
Support to Monuvu Attire
and Beads-making
Brgy. Muaan, Kidapawan
City, Cotabato Province
machines, and other
necessary materials to IP
women and youth.
Provision of Seed Capital
for the Balikwat Na
Tagakaulo (Trading Store
for Tagakaulo)
Brgy. Lower Mainit,
Malungon, Sarangani
Provision of additional
capital to existing trading
store.
Special project for IP
women, solo parent,
youth and PWDs
Esperanza, Sultan Kudarat Provision of basic training on
entrepreneurship and food
preservation and processing.
Reforestation of Denuded
Areas
Pigcawayan, Cotabato
Province
Developed 8 hectares of
denuded areas for rubber
production that benefitted 8
IPs.
Reforestation Project Lutayan, Sultan Kudarat Rehabilitated/developed an
ancestral domain into highly
productive areas which
benefitted 24 IPs.
A priority component of the socio-economic projects that NCIP XII provides to the IPs
is education. A total of 364 IP-students successfully availed of education-related
programs in CY 2017 as presented in Table 7.4.

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Table 7.4: List of Educational Assistance Provided to IP students, Region XII, CY
2017
Program Beneficiaries Remarks
Educational Assistance
Program
301 IP students
(106 male and 195
female)
Each grantee received PhP
10,000.00 financial
assistance per semester.
Merit-based
Scholarship Program
15 IP students
(3 male and 12 female)
Scholars received PhP 25,000
per semester.
Support to LET Review
and other professional
board review
48 IP students
(48 students took the
exam)
14 out of 25 students passed
the exams (11 passed the
Licensure Examination for
Teachers, 1 Certified Public
Accountant) and 1
Mechanical Engineer.
D. Thrusts and Priorities to Sustain the Promotion of Filipino Values,
Culture and the Arts in Region XII
For CY 2018, NCCA shall continue to implement priority programs, projects, and
activities on cultural collaborations and partnership-building for development. It
supports the recommendation for government agencies to allocate 1.0 percent of their
budget for the implementation of programs intended for IPs and for the conservation
and preservation of cultural properties. It proposes the establishment of barangay
reading centers, profiling of cultural masters, publication of researches on traditional
cuisine, and the provision of training programs to target beneficiaries. NCCA also plans
to establish a databank on IP population by ethnic origin, conduct cultural mapping,
institutionalize the creation of local culture and arts council and strengthen the
promotion on the sensitivity to IP culture and traditions.
The NCCA shall continue its participation and strengthen its presence in regional
development as a Special Non-Voting Member (SNVM) of RDC XII since CY 2017. RDC
XII could provide the platform for the promotion of Filipino values, culture and the arts
in the region. It shall continue implementing activities under its mandate for the
provision of services on ancestral domain/land titling, human and economic
development, and protection of the rights of indigenous peoples.

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Chapter 8
Expanding Economic Opportunities in
Agriculture, Forestry, and Fishery
The agriculture, fisheries, and forestry (AFF) sector shall continue to play a critical role
in regional development. While its share to total regional output is declining, the sector
shall remain a major source of labor for various production activities and raw
materials for the manufacturing and service sectors. A robust AHFF sector can help
sustain food security and strengthen the region’s role as the Food Basket in Mindanao.
Appropriate interventions shall be implemented to increase productivity, enhance
competitiveness of the region’s AHFF, and to minimize the sector’s vulnerability to
climate change conditions.
Agricultural Productivity
A. Irrigated and Rainfed Palay Production
The region’s total irrigated and rainfed palay production increased by 10 percent
compared to the previous year’s production. The annual production increase is
translated to about 91,878 metric tons (MT) of additional harvested irrigated palay
and about 20,395 MT of additional harvested rainfed palay from the CY 2017 projected
harvest.
Table 8.1: Palay Production (metric tons), Region XII, CY 2016 and 2017
Indicator
Actual Accomplishment 2017 Growth Rate Gaps (MT)
2016 2017 Target
(2016-2017)
%
(2017 Actual
vs. Target)
Palay
Irrigated 1,003,147.00 1,101,570.00 1,009,692.00 10 91,878.00
Rainfed 197,495.00 217,935.00 197,540.00 10 20,395.00
Source of data: www.psa.gov.ph
With the current production, SOCCSKSARGEN is rated as the sixth (6th) largest rice
producing region in the country and ranked first on irrigated palay production in
Mindanao, with a volume of 1,200,642 MT or an annual record of 3.80 MT of harvested
palay per hectare.
Cotabato Province is the highest producer of irrigated palay in the region accounting
for about 37 percent of the region’s total irrigated palay produced. It was followed by
Sultan Kudarat (33%), South Cotabato (28%), and Sarangani (3%). Meanwhile, rainfed
palay production posted 17 percent of the total palay production or about 217, 935 MT
of rainfed palay. Cotabato Province produced about 47 percent, followed by Sultan
Kudarat (27%), South Cotabato (24%), and Sarangani (4%).

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The increase in the volume of harvested palay was attributed to the implementation of
various programs and projects that benefit rice farmers and stakeholders specifically
to increase their productivity and lessen the effects of the extreme dry season that
struck the region in latter months of 2015 towards the early months of 2016. These
interventions were facilitated by the LGUs, DA XII, and NIA XII. Table 8.2 provides the
list of programs for rice production.
Table 8.2: Rice Intervention/Program, Region XII, CY 2017
Program Type of Assistance Remark
Rice Seeds Distribution 6,441 bags Distributed to various adverse
ecosystems
Upland Seeds Distribution 400 bags Distributed on the Secretary’s
Visit in Midsayap, North
Cotabato
Soil sampling analyses 640 NPK and pH
analysis and 97
Fertilizer analysis
Conducted in collaboration with
the Bureau of Soil and Water
Management (BSWM) 12
Source of data: DA XII
Rice seeds distribution was also implemented to augment the losses experienced by
the farmers in the previous cropping season and to provide them with good seeds for
a much better production. Soil sampling analysis was also conducted to profile the
farmers’ field to optimize the plant growth, maximize the resources of the farmers, and
for the provision of appropriate assistance on farmers’ soil-related problems.
The DA also launched the National Color-coded Agriculture Guide Map. The said guide
is a comprehensive map that can be accessed online by the farmers and other
stakeholders. Through this map, the farmers can now have a scientific and exact
information on what crops are suitable to be planted/ produced in their area.
B. Yellow and White Corn Production
In CY 2017, the region topped the production of yellow corn in Mindanao, posting an
annual production of 1,026,166 MT. About forty-three percent (43%) of the region’s
yellow corn production came from South Cotabato, followed by Cotabato Province
(28%), Sultan Kudarat (21%), and Sarangani (8%).
In terms of white corn production, the region ranked third in Mindanao. The region’s
white corn production contributed about 18.0 percent of the 1,257,177 MT corn
production. Sarangani province recorded a very significant level and contributed
about 30 percent to total production.
Despite garnering the spot as the highest yellow corn producer in Mindanao,
SOCCSKSARGEN was not able to attain its CY 2017 production targets. Table 8.3 shows

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that the white corn production has a gap of about 37,775 metric tons and yellow corn
production has a deficit of about 31, 077 metric tons from its production target.
Table 8.3: Corn Production (metric tons), Region XII, 2016 and 2017
Indicator
Actual Accomplishment (MT)
2017 Target
(MT)
Growth Rate
(%) 2016-
2017
Gap (MT)
(2017Actual
vs. Target)
2016 2017
Corn
White 217,856 231,011 268,786 6.0 -37,775
Yellow 926,154 1,026,166 1,057,243 11.0 -31,077
The increasing production levels of corn is due to the provision of open pollinated
variety (OPV) and hybrid yellow corn seeds to farmers.
To address the cyclical problem on the fast deterioration and low germination of the
purchased hybrid seeds, the government prioritized the establishment and repair of
seed cold storage facilities in Tupi, Balindog, and Aroman Research Stations.
The region also intensified the production of Trichogramma cards and adult earwigs.
In CY 2017, a total of 2.132 million Trichogramma cards were distributed to 14,763
farmer-beneficiaries and 450 thousand adult earwigs were provided to 453 farmers-
beneficiaries. The cards are used as biocontrol agents and the adult earwigs are used
to capture prey that attacks the corn.
Among the primary reasons for the non-attainment of corn production targets for CY
2017 are the following: rat infestation, hopper lodging, delayed planting and
harvesting due to increased frequency of the rain, and flash floods in the provinces of
Sarangani, Cotabato, and South Cotabato.
C. Livestock and Poultry Inventory
The region’s livestock industry recorded very minimal decline in its inventory in CY
2017. The carabao inventory decreased by 2.0 percent due to a much lesser demand
for draft animals because of farm mechanization. Cattle inventory also decreased by
1.0 percent as an effect of the closure of operation of the Monterey Farm in Polomolok,
South Cotabato and the decreasing number of backyard farmer raisers because of the
difficulty of finding a grazing/pasture area to feed their cattle. The goat inventory also
decreased by 4.0 percent due to the high mortality recorded and the decreasing
number of breeders. Fortunately, the hog inventory slightly increased by 1.0 percent
as a result of the increasing demand for pork meat within and outside the region.
The poultry industry, particularly the production of broiler chicken, posted a sharp
increase in inventory by about 83.0 percent in CY 2017. This was due to the
establishment of additional broiler and layer farms in the provinces of South Cotabato

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and Cotabato to meet the increasing demand for poultry meat and eggs. On the other
hand, native chicken production slightly decreased by about 5.0 percent.
Table 8.4 : Livestock and Poultry Inventory, Region XII, 2016 and 2017
Indicator
Accomplishment Growth Rate
2016 2017 %
Livestock
Carabao 208,684 204,855 -2
Cattle 203,687 201,674 -1
Goat 235,113 226,794 -4
Hog 760,331 764,853 1
Poultry
Broiler Chicken 1,424,022 2,601,138 83
Native Chicken 4,721,974 4,500,399 -5
To address the decreasing inventory of livestock, the Regional Livestock Program
strengthened its animal health services through the distribution of veterinary drugs
and biologics to provincial and city veterinary offices for the treatment, prevention,
and control of economically important diseases. Animal disease surveillances were
also conducted. A total of 137,300 doses of veterinary drugs and biologics, 1,968
semen straw of well-bred cattle, 2,132 semen straw of well-bred carabao and about
439 kiloggrams of forage seeds were distributed to fifty-four (54) local government
unit (LGU)-partners.
The Regional Animal Diagnostic Laboratory (RADL) in General Santos City continued
to serve the needs of the livestock and poultry stakeholders in the prevention and
control of major animal diseases through the provision of laboratory diagnostic
examination services. A total of 3,164 laboratory services were rendered and 54
clienteles were served. The services provided consisted of parasitology, bacteriology,
virology, serology, and necropsy. The RADL also catered the analysis of 324 feed
samples with 2,155 determinations made. The feed samples were examined to ensure
the nutritional benefits that can be derived from it.
D. High-Value Commercial Crops Production
The top ten high-value commercial crops (HVCCs) of the region recovered to regain
their productivity after suffering from the impact of the extreme dry season in the past
two years. Banana, cacao, rubber, and sugarcane recorded double-digit increases in
production in CY 2017. The production increase of 15.0 percent for banana was due
to the additional new bearing hills contributed by the expansion areas in Sultan
Kudarat province by multinational companies like Dole-Stanfilco, Delmonte, and
Lapanday. Figure 8. 1 presents the performance of HVCCs in the region in CY 2017.

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Figure 8.1: High-Value Crops Production (metric tons), Region XII
2016 and 2017
Source of data: PSA XII
The remarkable production increase of 30.0 percent for sugarcane was due to the
favorable weather in CY 2017 and the timely implementation of the sugarcane block
farming convergence program of the Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR) and Sugar
Regulation Administration (SRA) in Cotabato Province. The said program provided
support to sugarcane farmers to increase their yield and make sugarcane farming more
cost-efficient and profitable.
Another significant production increase for CY 2017 was recorded for the rubber cup
lump. Rubber production in the region increased by 44.0 percent due to the increase
in the number of tappable trees and a good buying price for cup lump.
The sufficient rain and good agricultural practices of the cacao farmers enabled them
to produce by about 21.0 percent more good quality cacao pods compared to CY 2016.
As shown in Figure 8.1, a slight increase in production was also noted for pineapple
(3%), mango (2%), and abaca (3%). The increase in pineapple production was due to
the harvesting undertaken in the expansion areas of Dole Philippines, Incorporated in
Alamada, Cotabato Province while the increase in abaca and mango production
resulted from the good weather condition in CY 2017. The region’s mango industry is
also performing well, particularly on this year’s Mango Festival in Zambales, wherein
the Regional Mango Industry Council (RMIDC) XII contingent was able to sell one (1)
ton of fresh mangoes and made initial negotiations with the Fruitas Company and three
(3) Manila-based consolidators.

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Asparagus and coffee recorded a sharp decrease of 13 percent and 12 percent,
respectively. The decreasing production for asparagus was due to the shifting of
asparagus growers to yellow corn production since the market demand for asparagus
is low and the income is not very promising. The decrease in coffee production was
due to the cutting of less productive coffee-bearing trees and replanting of new
varieties in the Sultan Kudarat areas.
To ensure increased production and improvement of crops facing production
challenges, a massive distribution of planting materials for priority commodities was
undertaken. The distribution was aimed at further expanding the high-value crops
production base and providing support to the National Greening Program (NGP), Food
Staple Self Sufficiency Program (FSSP), and Climate Change Mitigation. The program
distributed about 1,046,720 hills of coffee and cacao seedlings that may cover about
1,046 hectares in the region.
The program also provided support to growers of high-value commodities, such as
banana, mango, and other high-value fruit crops that offer substantial incomes to
growers, traders, and processors in the region. Assistance was also given to growers,
traders, and processors to capture local, national, inter-regional, and international
market potentials to generate a better revenue for the industry stakeholders.
Farm mechanization was also introduced and implemented for the high-value crop
producers to facilitate and expedite proper land preparation, promote good
agricultural practices, reduce the postharvest losses, and increase the farmer’s
productivity and income.
Coconut recorded a slight production decrease of 3.0 percent. To address the
production decline, the Philippine Coconut Authority (PCA) XII intensified the
implementation of the Accelerated Coconut Planting/Replanting Program (ACPRP). In
CY 2017, a total of 8 hectares were planted to high-quality coconut seedlings supplied
by the PCA XII nursery. About 18,800 bags of agricultural grade salt (AGS) fertilizer
were applied to 470,000 coconut bearing trees. Several supplementary activities under
the Kaanib Enterprise Development Program (KEDP) for the increased productivity of
SOCCSKSARGEN coconut industry was also implemented in CY 2017. Table 8.5
presents the list of major PAPs for the coconut industry of Region XII.
Also, under the said program, a coconut sugar hub was established in Carmen, Cotabato
Province to support the poverty alleviation initiatives of the government. The hub
serves as the arm to help the neighbouring small spokes to upgrade to a bigger scale
processing and marketing with a big brother-small brother relationship.

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Table 8.5: List of Major Programs/Activities Implemented by PCA XII
CY 2017
Program Activities
Coconut-Coffee Based
Enterprise Development
(COCOBED)+
 Provision of 2,368 bags of assorted inorganic
fertilizer to 1,498 farmer-beneficiaries covering
1,148 hectares of intercropped coffee where
majority are in the fruit-bearing stage.
Coconut-Cacao enterprise
Development Program
(CCEDP)
 Provision of 906 bags organic and inorganic
fertilizers to 363 farmer-beneficiaries covering an
area of 340.5 hectares of intercropped cacao.
 Establishment of about 130 hectares of expansion
area for cacao with 103 farmer-beneficiaries who
received 65,000 asexually propagated cacao
seedlings and 260 bags of organic fertilizer.
Coconut Intercropping
Program (CIP)
 Provision of 28 heads of cattle (heifer) in South
Cotabato for the coconut-livestock intercropped
program.
Community Household
Level Coconut Processing
Enterprise (CHLCP)
 Identification of nine (9) new sites and provided
with various machinery and equipment for coconut
sugar and coconut coir based organic fertilizer
processing.
Source of data: PCA XII
E. Organic Agriculture Program (OAP)
In CY 2017, the SOCCSKSARGEN-OAP intensified its support to organic agriculture
practitioners to strengthen production and market competitiveness. The program
provided about 10,450 kilograms of assorted seeds of organic rice, legumes and
vegetable seeds, 275 bottles of soil ameliorants, and 220 heads of animals (livestock
& poultry) to various beneficiaries.
The local government units (LGUs) in the region also massively implemented the
sustainable OAP. South Cotabato was able to convert a total of 457.37 hectares of
farmlands into organic production areas and supported the 263 farmers-practitioners
on their organic farming-related programs, projects, and activities.
F. Fishery Production
The region’s fishery sector posted unstable production in 2017. Commercial and
marine municipal fishing recorded an increase of about 14.0 percent and 5.0 percent,
respectively. However, inland municipal fishing and aquaculture recorded a
decreasing production of 13.0 percent and 6.0 percent, respectively, as compared to
production levels in CY 2016.

35 | P a g e
The increase in commercial and marine municipal fishing was due to the abundance of
the major fish species in the region’s fishing grounds with the implementation of the
fishing ban and the increase in the unloading of big-eye and yellow fin tuna for cold
storage and for canneries operating in the region. However, the production decrease
for inland municipal and aquaculture was due to less fishing activities conducted as
some fishermen shfted to rice/palay farming. Some fishermen opted to shift to farming
because there were lesser volume of inland fishes to catch and rice farming seemed to
be a more profitable source of income. In terms of other priority commodities, there
was a significant decrease in high value fishes and shrimps due to insufficient supply
of fingerlings and crablets. Table 8.6 shows the fishery production of Region XII.
Table 8.6: Fish Production (metric tons), Region XII, CY 2016 and 2017
Indicator
Accomplishment (MT)
2017
Target
Growth
Rate (%)
Gap (MT)
Actual vs.
Target
2016 2017
Fish Production
Commercial 242,020 275,163 254,121 14.0 2
1,042
Inland municipal 21,557 18,734 21,773 -13.0 -
3,039
Marine municipal 15,221 15,934 15,373 5.0 561
Aquaculture 13,210 12,413 14,002 -6.0 -1,589
Total 294,024 324,261 305,269
High Value Fish Production
Lapulapu 679 234 - -66 234
Mayamaya 103 70 - -32 70
Crabs 49 12.25 - -75 12.25
Total 831 316.25 - 316.25
Other Priority Commodities
Seaweeds 71.30 74.87 75 5 0.13
Shrimps 140.00 0.52 42 -100 -41.48
Shellfish 40.82 41.64 - 2 41.64
Total 252.112 117.03 117 2.01 0.29
Source of data: BFAR XII
To address the threat of continuing decline in the production of inland fishes, the
Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) XII intensified the implementation
of its Balik Sigla sa Ilog at Lawa (BASIL) program. Through the program, they
distributed 2,013,500 tilapia and carp fingerlings, established three (3) brush parks,
and enhanced seven (7) Small Water Impounding Projects (SWIPs). The agency also
strengthened the enforcement of fishery laws through the Malinis at Masaganang
Karagatan (MMK) program. In CY 2017, around 89 cases of violations in the region
were reported.

36 | P a g e
Competitiveness of Agricultural Products
The competitiveness of the region’s agricultural products for local, national, and
international markets rely on the efforts and support services provided by the
agricultural service providers and research and development.
A. Market Development Services
The region participated in three (3) international events as a way to assess the
opportunity of the region’s agricultural produce in the local, national, and international
markets and to assist the local agricultural entrepreneurs in promoting and marketing
their products. Table 8.7 enumerates the major international events participated by
Region XII agricultural entrepreneurs in CY 2017.
Table 8.7: List of Major International Events Participated in by Region XII
Agricultural Entrepreneurs in CY 2017
Activity Remarks
National Agriculture
and Food Exhibition/
Natural and Organic
Foods at Budapest
Hungary.
 The activity is the largest agricultural event in Hungary.
 There were 13 companies that were linked and matched
during the said exhibit.
 The region showcased the export quality tropical fruits,
seasonings, mixes, sauces, canned sardines, and tuna in
response to the invitation of Minister Fazekas Sandor.
 The said event was able to generate under negotiation
sales for canned tuna amounting to US$294,000;
US$650,000 for dried mango slices and on-going
negotiations for organic rice and seasonings.
Food and Beverages
Expo at Osaka, Japan
with Greenland
Asparagus
Multipurpose
Cooperative
(GAMPC) as
exhibitor
 GAMPC is the only organized group in the region that
supplies asparagus both in the domestic and international
markets with 75% of the product directly exported to
Japan and Korea.
 During the event, the company had a total booked sales of
PhP1,032,000 for 2.7MT of fresh asparagus and under
negotiation sales of PhP1,530,000.00or 6MT for frozen
asparagus.
 The above-mentioned output during the forum would
further strengthen the production of asparagus in the
region.
Annual Food and
Hotel Asia Forum in
Ho Chi Minh, Vietnam
 The region showcased the region’s export quality
products, such as fresh banana, pomelo and mangoes.
Source of data: DA XII
A strategic planning and preparatory meeting for the region’s rubber industry was also
facilitated in 2017. The activity focused on the formulation of the SOCCSKSARGEN’s
rubber industry plan in response to the proposed establishment of rubber tire factory
in Mindanao.

2017 SOCCSKSARGEN Regional Development Report

2017 SOCCSKSARGEN Regional Development Report

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