DEPDev SOCCSKSARGEN Region

PhilTech findings highlight Region XII as an emerging hub for diving and marine tourism at 1st Dive SOX SEAmposium

Stakeholders from government agencies, environmental organizations, academic institutions, tourism sectors, youth groups, and marine conservation advocates gathered at the 1st Dive SOX SEAmposium on May 27, 2028, at Greenleaf Hotel, General Santos City. The event aimed to strengthen collaboration in advancing marine conservation, sustainable tourism, and the growth of the diving industry in Region XII.

The symposium, one of the key highlights of this year's Ocean Month celebration, was organized through the joint efforts of the Department of Tourism (DOT) Region XII, led by Regional Director Nelia R. Arina and Assistant Regional Director Armin H. Hautea. It was conducted in partnership with the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) Region XII, the Sarangani Bay Protected Seascape (SBPS) Protected Area Management Office, local government units within the SBPS and the Kalamansig-Lebak-Palimbang (KALEPA) areas, and other stakeholders.

A major highlight of the event was the presentation of the Sarangani Bay Exploratory Dive Assessment by Alex Santos and the Philippine Technical Divers (PhilTech) team. The assessment provided initial validation that Region XII holds strong potential as an emerging diving destination.

The study gathered baseline data from four dive sites—Bacud Reef, Kiamba Slope 1, Kiamba Slope 2, and Takot Mangga in Maitum—using belt transect surveys, benthic habitat assessments, and fish community surveys. Results indicated rich marine biodiversity and healthy underwater ecosystems that can support the development of dive tourism in the region.

Santos noted that the diving industry in Sarangani is steadily emerging, particularly as the municipalities of Kiamba and Maitum have already attained Triple-A ratings as diving destinations.

As a policy consideration, PhilTech emphasized that sustaining growth in the diving sector requires addressing the five A's of tourism development: Accessibility, Accommodation, Attractions, Activities, and Amenities. Key recommendations included accelerating the development of tourism infrastructure, encouraging private sector investment, optimizing existing facilities, and enhancing community participation.

The symposium also featured a presentation by Philippine Commission on Sports Scuba Diving (PCSSD) Executive Director Marco Angelo J. Ancheta titled: "Dive Philippine Waters: Awareness, Programs, and Protection."

Meanwhile, Mr. Deo Florence L. Onda of the University of the Philippines Marine Science Institute in Diliman, Quezon City, highlighted the growing challenge of plastic pollution in Philippine waters. He explained that the issue is influenced by consumption patterns, weaknesses in waste management systems, and the movement of rivers and ocean currents.

Another notable session was delivered by Ms. Jurgene H. Primavera, who serves as the Chief Mangrove Scientific Advisor of the Zoological Society of London. She emphasized the vital role of mangroves and beach forests in strengthening coastal resilience.

Aligned with the Region XII Spatial Development Framework (RSDF) and its SOAR SOX strategy—Sustainable and resilient Oases for Agro-industrial and agri-ecocultural tourism Rendezvous in the Southern coastal, Orbital heartland, and Xystus northern highlands—the municipalities of Kiamba and Maitum in Sarangani Province. along with the Kalamansig-Lebak-Palimbang (KALEPA) area of Sultan Kudarat, are part of the Southern Coastal Agro-industrial and Agri-ecocultural Tourism Corridor. This corridor is envisioned as a key growth area that integrates economic development, environmental sustainability, and cultural heritage preservation while maximizing the region's coastal and marine resources.

As Region XII continues to harness its marine tourism potential, the insights shared during the 1st Dive SOX SEAmposium provide a strong foundation for positioning SOCCSKSARGEN as a sustainable and competitive diving destination, while ensuring the protection of its valuable coastal and marine ecosystems. (Evie Arabis Cabulanan, DEPDev XII-PDIPBD)

DEPDev XII caps 2026 National Heritage Month with vibrant Culinary Fiesta

The Department of Economy, Planning, and Development (DEPDev) XII capped off its 2026 National Heritage Month (NHM) celebration with a lively culinary showcase, heritage-themed presentations, and trivia games, highlighting the richness of Filipino culture and identity.

Anchored on this year’s theme, “Roots and Horizons: Our Shared Heritage, Our Collective Future,” the celebration encouraged Filipinos to take pride in the nation’s cultural roots while embracing a shared responsibility in shaping its future.

A key highlight of the culminating activity was the “Fiesta of the Philippines: A Culinary Heritage Showcase,” which featured the diversity of regional cuisines, food traditions, and cultural expressions from across the country. The showcase underscored how food serves not only as sustenance but also as a powerful reflection of the Philippines’ history, identity, and the enduring interconnectedness of its communities.

Six regional groups—Northern Luzon, Central Luzon and Southern Tagalog, Bicol Region, Visayas Islands, Northern and Western Mindanao, and Southern and Eastern Mindanao—set up immersive booths that presented the culinary and cultural heritage of their assigned areas. Each booth featured curated dishes, visual displays, and information narratives.

The Project Monitoring and Evaluation Division (PMED) emerged as the overall winner, impressing judges with its presentation of the rich culinary traditions and cultural heritage of the Zamboanga Peninsula, Northern Mindanao, and the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM). The Finance and Administrative Division – Human Resource and Financial Resource Management Services (FAD-HRMS and FRMS) placed second with its showcase of the Davao Region and SOCCSKSARGEN, while the Project Development, Investment Programming, and Budget Division (PDIPBD) secured third place, highlighting Central Luzon and Southern Tagalog.

In his message, OIC Assistant Regional Director Guillermo R. Manrique Jr. emphasized the importance of collective stewardship in preserving the country’s heritage. He noted that culture thrives when it is shared, valued, and passed on to future generations. He also encouraged everyone to promote inclusivity, celebrate diversity, and recognize each Filipino’s role in safeguarding the nation’s collective identity.

The National Heritage Month celebration is in accordance with Presidential Proclamation No. 439 (s. 2003), which designates May as a time to foster greater awareness, appreciation, and pride in the Philippines’ cultural legacy. This year’s observance is further enriched by the country’s hosting of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN), providing an opportunity to showcase Philippine heritage within the broader Southeast Asian cultural landscape. (Alberto U. Pesodas Jr., DEDev XII-DRD)

LOOK: The Department of Economy, Planning, and Development (DEPDev) showcased the Trabaho Para sa Bayan Act (RA 11962) during the third episode of Talakayan sa Dose: Right to Decent Work.

DEPDev Planning and Development Specialist Eden F. Ridao explained that the law aims to enhance the employability and competitiveness of Filipino workers through upskilling and reskilling programs. It also provides support for micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) and industry stakeholders, in line with the directive of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.

In Region 12, the TPB Plan was formally launched on February 25, alongside the establishment of the Regional TPB Interagency Council to ensure effective implementation of initiatives across the region.

JRTF-ELCAC XII Tri-Secretariat receives strategic guidance from newly designated CORDS for SOCCSKSARGEN

The Joint Regional Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (JRTF-ELCAC) XII Tri-Secretariat strengthened its coordination efforts as it received strategic guidance from National Commission on Indigenous Peoples (NCIP) Chairperson, Secretary Nancy A. Catamco, the newly designated Cabinet Officer for Regional Development and Security (CORDS) for the SOCCSKSARGEN Region.

Secretary Catamco, who took her oath before President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. on April 22, 2026, also serves as Co-Cluster Head of the Sectoral Unification, Capacity Building, Empowerment, and Mobilization Cluster.

A hybrid coordination meeting and briefing, convened by the Department of Economy, Planning, and Development (DEPDev) XII, was held on May 20, 2026, at the Mt. Matutum Room, DEPDev XII Building, Prime Regional Government Center in Koronadal City.

The briefing presented the structure, key accomplishments, and priority initiatives of JRTF XII, including ongoing efforts to operationalize the JRTF-ELCAC XII Geospatial Database and implement an impact study on the Task Force’s interventions in ELCAC barangays.

As Chairperson of JRTF XII and CORDS for SOCCSKSARGEN, Secretary Catamco emphasized the need to identify gaps on the ground to better align the Task Force’s directives with the actual needs of communities and local government units. She also affirmed NCIP’s continued support for initiatives that advance peace and development in ELCAC barangays, stating, “I am committed to do my duty as CORDS for Region XII.”

Established in 2019 pursuant to Executive Order No. 70 (s. 2018), JRTF XII has implemented the Whole-of-Nation Approach through coordinated security, governance, socioeconomic, and community-based interventions.

With all six guerrilla fronts in Region XII dismantled as of 2024, the Joint Task Force has shifted its focus from combat operations to economic recovery, community transition, and sustained government support in affected areas.

Regional Development Council (RDC) XII Acting Vice-Chairperson and DEPDev XII Officer-in-Charge Regional Director (OIC-RD) Romel Patrick E. Tanghal, stressed the importance of reinforcing security gains with tangible social and economic interventions. “Lasting peace can only be secured when communities tangibly feel the presence and support of government,” he said.

Director Tanghal also expressed full support for NCIP XII as it assumes leadership roles within the Task Force, including chairing the Technical Working Group. “We express our full support for NCIP XII as it takes on a leading role in the Technical Working Group under the current CORDS arrangement,” he added.

The meeting was attended by NCIP XII Acting Regional Director Joel Bogay, National Task Force-ELCAC Desk Officer for Region XII Trina Mallari, and members of the Tri-Secretariat from NCIP XII, the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) XII, and DEPDev XII. (Dayle Lois D. Tulang, DEPDev XII-PFPD)

DEPDev XII honors mothers, advances women’s empowerment, embraces digital learning during unified celebration

The Department of Economy, Planning, and Development Region XII (DEPDev XII) successfully conducted a harmonized activity, bringing together the observance of Mother’s Day, an orientation on Section 18 of the Magna Carta of Women (Republic Act No. 9710), and a Learning and Development (L&D) Session on Microsoft Power BI.

In his welcome message, OIC–Regional Director Romel Patrick E. Tanghal warmly acknowledged the presence of the DEPDev XII family and expressed gratitude to Atty. Hannah D. Examen, who is the Assistant Regional Director of the Civil Service Commission (CSC) Regional Office XII for sharing her expertise. Atty. Examen, a member of the Region XII GAD Resource Pool (RGRP), provided an in-depth discussion on Section 18 of the Magna Carta of Women, highlighting CSC Memorandum Circular No. 25, series of 2010, which outlines the guidelines on the grant of Special Leave Benefits for Women. Her presentation reinforced awareness of women’s rights, welfare, and protection in the workplace.

In line with strengthening organizational capability and supporting DEPDev XII’s digital transformation initiatives, a Learning and Development (L&D) Session on Microsoft Power BI was also conducted. The session was facilitated by trained DEPDev XII personnel—Dayle Lois D. Tulang (EDS II – PFPD), Myra L. Sajo (Senior EDS – DRD), and Michael BJ S. Abellana (Senior EDS – DRD). They demonstrated practical applications of data visualization and analytics, showcasing how Power BI can enhance clarity, efficiency, and insights in report generation. This effort supports improved decision-making and promotes a culture of data-driven public service delivery.

A highlight of the celebration was the recognition of 13 DEPDev XII mothers, whose dedication to both family and public service continues to inspire the organization. A special trivia game added fun and excitement, followed by a heartfelt tribute video prepared by the Human Resource Management Services (HRMS). The activity underscored the invaluable role of mothers in fostering a compassionate, supportive, and caring workplace environment.

The celebration concluded with a renewed call for all personnel to apply the gender empowerment insights and technical skills gained, guided by the passion, commitment, and nurturing spirit exemplified by mothers every day. (Cherry May T. Distor, DEPDev XII-FAD)

USM-SERDAC conducts MaxQDA training for DEPDev XII personnel

The University of Southern Mindanao (USM), through its Socio-Economic Research and Data Analytics Center (SERDAC) headed by Dr. Romiel P. Basan, conducted a training workshop on MaxQDA for personnel of the Department of Economy, Planning, and Development (DEPDev) XII on May 19, 2026, in Koronadal City.

Professor Frans Bert D. Gomez of USM-SERDAC served as the main resource person and facilitator during the activity.

MaxQDA is a widely used software for qualitative and mixed-methods research, enabling users to systematically organize, code, analyze, and interpret data from interviews, focus group discussions, case studies, documents, and other sources.

The training formed part of the implementation of the study titled “Benchmarking SOCCSKSARGEN’s Transition into an Agro-Industrial Center and Agri-Eco-Cultural Tourism Hub,” with USM-SERDAC serving as the project’s servicing agency. Anchored on the SOCCSKSARGEN Regional Spatial Development Framework (RSDF) 2015–2045 and aligned with the Regional Development and Innovation Research Agenda (RDIRA), the study aims to benchmark global and national development models, assess the region’s current economic and institutional landscape, and identify strategic actions, policy reforms, and priority investments to support SOCCSKSARGEN’s long-term transformation agenda.

Recognizing the highly technical and research-intensive nature of the study, DEPDev XII requested the integration of a capacity-building component during the project negotiation phase. In response, USM-SERDAC incorporated a hands-on training on MaxQDA, equipping participants with practical skills in qualitative and mixed-methods research, including data coding, organization, and analysis of various research materials.

In his welcome message, OIC Regional Director Romel Patrick E. Tanghal expressed appreciation to USM-SERDAC for the strong collaboration. He emphasized that the training would benefit not only the Research Project Team directly involved in the benchmarking study, but also DEPDev XII personnel engaged in graduate studies, thesis and dissertation writing, policy research, and other analytical work. He likewise conveyed his gratitude to USM President Jonald D. Pimentel for his continued support in strengthening the region’s research and development capacity.

The activity concluded with a message from Dr. Basan, who reaffirmed USM-SERDAC’s commitment to supporting DEPDev XII in advancing both the benchmarking study and ongoing capacity-building initiatives. (Angelique B. Beljot, DEPDev XII-DRD)

𝗕𝗔𝗦𝗔𝗛𝗜𝗡: 𝗣𝗿𝗲𝘀𝘆𝗼, 𝗧𝗿𝗮𝗯𝗮𝗵𝗼, 𝗮𝘁 𝗣𝗮𝗹𝗶𝘁𝗮𝗻 𝗻𝗴 𝗣𝗶𝘀𝗼: 𝗞𝘂𝗺𝘂𝘀𝘁𝗮 𝗮𝗻𝗴 𝗦𝗶𝘁𝘄𝗮𝘀𝘆𝗼𝗻 𝘀𝗮 𝗦𝗢𝗖𝗖𝗦𝗞𝗦𝗔𝗥𝗚𝗘𝗡?

Mangyaring tingnan ang kalakip na dokumento. Magbibigay pa kami ng karagdagang updates tungkol sa kalagayang panlipunan at pang‑ekonomiya ng rehiyon. Stay tuned!

Source: Philippine Statistics Authority, Department of Energy–Mindanao Field Office, Department of Agriculture XII, and Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas.

Sultan Kudarat Cong. Suansing visits DEPDev XII

Representative Bella Vanessa B. Suansing of the Second Congressional District of Sultan Kudarat paid a courtesy visit to the Department of Economy, Planning, and Development (DEPDev) Regional Office XII on May 08, 2026.

Rep. Suansing was warmly welcomed by OIC-Regional Director Romel Patrick E. Tanghal, OIC-Assistant Regional Director Guillermo R. Manrique, Jr., and the heads of the agency’s technical divisions.

During the visit, Rep. Suansing underscored the crucial role of reliable and timely data in sound policy formulation and decision-making. She also emphasized the need for proactive government interventions in preparation for the anticipated onset of the El Niño phenomenon by June, noting the importance of minimizing potential economic losses and mitigating its adverse impacts on local economies and Filipino families.

Discussion during the meeting focused on the region’s economic performance and development outlook, particularly for the Province of Sultan Kudarat. These include updates on Provincial Product Accounts, investment priorities, and priority programs and projects within the Second Congressional District.

Rep. Suansing currently serves as Assistant Majority Leader and Vice-Chairperson of the Committee on Appropriations. She is also a member of the Advisory Committee of the Regional Development Council XII, further strengthening coordination between national legislators and regional development planners. (Jose Anthony Laurent P. Octavio, DEPDev XII-ORD)

DPWH XII opens P500-million parallel bridges to boost regional connectivity and economic growth