Mahintana Foundation, Inc.

23/09/2026

Mahintana Foundation, Inc. through ProPEACE PH joined the validation of Galing Pook On-Site Validation spearheaded by PLGU South Cotabato through Provincial Social Welfare and Development Office (PSWDO), led by Ms. Sonia Bautista, Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program (E-CLIP), represented by Atty. Leah Mae Orencio, and members of Culubi United Peoples Integrated Farmers Association (CUPIFA), Nouronissa’s Indigenous Farmers’ Integrated Association (NIFIA), and Moro Youth Organization of Polomolok held at Maliangow Nilong Spring Resort, Barangay Lapu, Polomolok, South Cotabato on September 21, 2026.

The activity was graced by Hon. Municipal Mayor Bernie Palencia, together with Punong Barangay Fahodey Nilong, BLGU personnel, PBGen Alan B. Manibog of the PNP, CO 6th IB Col Dranreb Canto, General Omar Orozco (1st Mechanize Brigade Commander) and FC PCol Samuel Cadungan of RMFB XII.

The validation provided an opportunity to showcase the Maliangow initiative, highlighting its community participation, partnerships, local efforts, and the transformation made possible through sustained collaboration among the community, People’s Organizations, government institutions, and development partners.

Galing Pook, established to recognize innovative and effective local governance practices, identifies initiatives that demonstrate meaningful solutions and community impact that may serve as models for other local governments.

The validator further emphasized that the award would only be an added recognition to what the Maliangow community has already achieved, particularly its evident impact, participation, and transformation.

Mayor Bernie Palencia also reaffirmed the Municipality’s continued support and expressed his intention to explore funding for the improvement and standardization of the Maliangow hanging bridge.

The validation highlighted the collective efforts of the Maliangow community, People’s Organizations, government agencies, and development partners in advancing a community-driven initiative built on partnership, resilience, and transformation.

22/09/2026

Mahintana Foundation, Inc., through Task Force Kalikasan, Kaligtasan, Kalusugan at Kabuhayan, in partnership with Save the Children Philippines, conducted a two-day Capacity Building on Adolescent Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights (ASRHR) and Gender Sensitivity on September 16–17, 2026, at Hotel De Viajera, Brgy. Morales, Koronadal City.

The activity engaged Dolefil Kaugnay as adult champions in strengthening support and protection for adolescents in their families and communities.

Participants discussed adolescent rights and development, gender sensitivity, human sexuality, safeguarding, and effective communication. And also examined how stereotypes and assumptions can affect how adults understand and respond to adolescents.

The sessions covered the Adolescent Referral Pathway, roles of service providers and duty bearers, confidentiality, and measures to prevent retraumatization when responding to adolescent concerns. Relevant child protection laws and policies were also discussed.

Participants developed Action Plans to translate the learning into concrete actions within their families, workplaces, and communities.

The activity strengthened the commitment of Mahintana, Save the Children Philippines, and Dolefil Kaugnay to promote safe, respectful, and supportive environments where adolescents can be heard and protected.

22/09/2026

𝐁𝐫𝐢𝐧𝐠𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐋𝐢𝐠𝐡𝐭 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐑𝐞𝐥𝐢𝐞𝐟 𝐭𝐨 𝐁𝐥𝐚𝐚𝐧 𝐅𝐚𝐦𝐢𝐥𝐢𝐞𝐬 𝐢𝐧 𝐆𝐥𝐚𝐧: 𝟓𝟕 𝐒𝐨𝐥𝐚𝐫 𝐊𝐢𝐭𝐬 𝐓𝐮𝐫𝐧𝐞𝐝 𝐎𝐯𝐞𝐫 𝐔𝐧𝐝𝐞𝐫 𝐏𝐫𝐨𝐣𝐞𝐜𝐭 𝐀𝐌𝐁𝐀𝐆 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐈𝐂𝐂𝐬

Following the magnitude 7.8 earthquake and its continuing impacts on affected communities, Indigenous Peoples (IP) families from the Blaan community in Barangay Rio del Pilar, Municipality of Glan, Sarangani Province experienced significant disruptions to their daily lives, including prolonged power outages, displacement, and interruptions to agricultural and livelihood activities.

In response to these challenges, solar kits were turned over to 57 IP evacuee families through the Aid and Mobilization for Barangays Affected by Geohazards – Indigenous Cultural Communities Project (AMBAG for ICCs), implemented by Mahintana Foundation, Inc. with funding support from the New Zealand Embassy. The intervention aims to provide immediate, practical, and community-responsive assistance to earthquake-affected Indigenous Peoples, particularly in addressing basic energy needs during displacement and recovery.

Complementing the solar kit distribution, Dole Philippines Inc. provided essential relief items, including blankets and sleeping mats, to support the immediate needs and comfort of displaced families.

The activity also demonstrated the importance of community participation and local ownership in humanitarian response. Community members actively supported the preparation and conduct of the activity, contributed local food and produce, and worked alongside partner organizations to ensure the successful implementation of the assistance.

The turnover activity commenced with a thanksgiving mass themed “God’s Perfect Timing,” providing an opportunity for the community to reflect on their experiences following the earthquake and express gratitude for the assistance extended by various development and government partners.

Representatives from the National Commission on Indigenous Peoples (NCIP) XII, Dole Philippines, Inc., Office of Civil Defense (OCD) XII, Local Government Unit of Glan, Provincial Local Government Unit of Sarangani, Philippine Coast Guard (PCG), and Mahintana Foundation, Inc. participated in the activity alongside Blaan tribal leaders, Indigenous Peoples Mandatory Representative (IPMR), community leaders, and residents.

During the turnover, Mahintana also conducted a practical orientation and demonstration on the proper installation, operation, maintenance, safe use, and community responsibilities related to the solar kits. This component was intended to strengthen users’ capacity to safely operate and sustain the distributed solar units beyond the immediate relief intervention.
The activity was attended by key partners and community representatives, including NCIP, representing the New Zealand Embassy, led by Municipal Tribal Chieftain Fulong Richard Tao, Dole Philippines, represented by Community Relations Supervisor Mr. Aldric Relator, LGU Glan represented by Legal and Humanitarian Assistance Officer-in-Charge Ms. Catherine Matonod, Barangay Rio del Pilar Council, led by Hon. Francisco Benitez Sr., Mahintana Foundation, Inc., led by Mr. Roel Ian Blanker and IPMR Kent James Buntang, together with Blaan tribal elders, community leaders, and residents

The initiative reflects the value of multi-sectoral collaboration, community participation, and locally responsive humanitarian assistance in supporting Indigenous Peoples and other vulnerable communities affected by disasters. Through Project AMBAG for ICCs, Mahintana Foundation and its partners continue to work toward strengthening community recovery, restoring access to essential services, and supporting affected families as they rebuild their lives following the earthquake.

New Zealand Embassy - Manila, Philippines

22/09/2026

On September 17–19, 2026, Alabel Farmers Scientists Agriculture Cooperative (AFSACo) and KABALIKAT CIVICOM 499 Maitum Chapter had a Joint Capacity Development Writeshop on Reviewing and Updating of their Strategic Plans at Microtel, General Santos City with the support of Project COMPACT.

The writeshop was facilitated by Ms. Mary Luzviminda Herezo, who guided participants through a participatory SWOT Analysis and the updating of their respective three-year Strategic Plans.

The activity aimed to review, update, and strengthen the organizations’ strategic plans by aligning their priorities, programs, and actions with their organizational goals and long-term development directions. The planning process also integrated activities related to child protection to ensure that children’s concerns are considered in organizational programs and initiatives.

Participants worked collaboratively across key result areas including Governance and Direction Setting, Planning and Management, Administration and Personnel Management, Resource Mobilization and Development, Financial Management, and Programs and Services.

Through collaboration, reflection, and strategic planning, AFSACo and KABALIKAT CIVICOM 499 Maitum Chapter continue to strengthen their organizational capacities and commitment to responsive, sustainable, and community-centered development.

19/09/2026

Strengthening Local Action for Zero Open Defecation

With 6 of Tupi’s 16 barangays already achieving Zero Open Defecation (ZOD) Grade 1, the municipality continues to strengthen local capacity toward its goal of municipal-wide ZOD.

On September 17–18, 2026, Mahintana Foundation, Inc., through the Tupi Task Force Kalusugan, conducted the Two-Day Training of Trainers (TOT) on the Philippine Approach to Sustainable Sanitation (PhATSS) for Barangay Sanitation Inspectors (BSIs), Midwives, and barangay representatives from all 16 barangays of Tupi. The training was held at Durian Garden, Barangay Sulit, Polomolok, South Cotabato.

The training covered the PhATSS framework, G0–G3 sanitation levels, sanitation service chain and assessment, sanitation inspection and monitoring, and ZOD verification criteria. Participants also took part in field validation simulations and action planning, allowing them to apply the standards to actual barangay-level scenarios.

The discussions highlighted an important principle: ZOD should not be treated simply as a compliance requirement, but as a way of living. Sustainable sanitation depends on consistent community practices, local leadership, information, education and communication (IEC), monitoring, documentation, and collective action.

As Tupi moves forward, the 16 barangays are encouraged to strengthen their local action plans, engage community leaders, document progress, and mobilize support from government agencies and development partners.

Six barangays have already taken the step. Ten more continue the journey. Together, Tupi moves closer to municipal-wide Zero Open Defecation.

Mahintana Foundation, Inc. together with Dole Philippines, Inc., continues to support local partners in building stronger systems and community capacities for sustainable health, sanitation, and development.

18/09/2026

𝐂𝐞𝐥𝐞𝐛𝐫𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐖𝐨𝐫𝐥𝐝 𝐁𝐚𝐦𝐛𝐨𝐨 𝐃𝐚𝐲 𝟐𝟎𝟐𝟔: 𝐁𝐚𝐦𝐛𝐨𝐨 𝐁𝐞𝐲𝐨𝐧𝐝 𝐁𝐨𝐫𝐝𝐞𝐫𝐬 𝐭𝐡𝐫𝐨𝐮𝐠𝐡 𝐄𝐜𝐨𝐬𝐲𝐬𝐭𝐞𝐦 𝐑𝐞𝐬𝐭𝐨𝐫𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐍𝐚𝐭𝐮𝐫𝐞-𝐁𝐚𝐬𝐞𝐝 𝐒𝐨𝐥𝐮𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧𝐬

In celebration of World Bamboo Day 2026, with the theme “Bamboo Beyond Borders,” Mahintana Foundation, Inc. through its Ridge-to-Reef Program, funded by Dole Philippines, Inc., joined the Tree Growing Activity in Barangay Lunen, Tupi, South Cotabato, together with Climate Care and ChildFund Philippines, with support from the European Union (EU).

The theme “Bamboo Beyond Borders” highlights the broad potential of bamboo to contribute to environmental sustainability, community resilience, livelihoods, innovation, and sustainable development across communities and regions. The tree-growing activity brought together partners from different sectors to demonstrate how collective action and nature-based solutions can contribute to ecosystem restoration and climate resilience.

The activity convened a broad network of government, civil society, private sector, and community partners, including the Local Government Unit of Tupi, Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP) Tupi, Philippine National Police (PNP) of Tupi, Philippine Army, Department of Labor and Employment Regional Office XII (DOLE XII), Department of Education Regional Office XII (DepEd XII), Department of Agriculture – Agricultural Training Institute XII (DA-ATI XII), ChildFund Philippines and ChildFund International, Ha Uman Assn, Inc., Dole Philippines, Inc., and the South Cotabato Integrated Bamboo Council.

A total of 3,000 bamboo and FF tree seedlings were planted as part of efforts to restore denuded areas, increase vegetation cover, enhance biodiversity, and strengthen the ecological resilience of local communities. The initiative applies a nature-based solutions (NbS) approach, utilizing ecosystem restoration and sustainable natural resource management to address climate and environmental risks while generating long-term benefits for communities.

Beyond ecological restoration, the activity highlighted the importance of engaging children and young people as environmental stewards. Environmental protection and ecosystem restoration are essential components of building safer, healthier, and more climate-resilient communities for present and future generations.

The LGU of Tupi expressed its appreciation to the partner organizations for their continued support of the municipality’s environmental initiatives and emphasized that caring for and protecting the environment is also an investment in the future of children and communities.

The activity further reinforced the shared commitment to educate, engage, and empower young people to become responsible environmental stewards, while strengthening multi-sectoral collaboration for sustainable environmental management. In line with the theme “Bamboo Beyond Borders,” the initiative also demonstrated how bamboo can serve as a bridge for collaboration among communities, institutions, and sectors in advancing environmental sustainability.

Through collective action, ecosystem restoration, and nature-based solutions, we continue to nurture ecosystems, strengthen community resilience, and take bamboo beyond borders toward a more sustainable and climate-resilient future for our children and communities.

16/09/2026

🏃🏃 SOCCSKSARGEN, 𝟱 𝗗𝗔𝗬𝗦 𝗧𝗢 𝗚𝗢! 𝗔𝗥𝗘 𝗬𝗢𝗨 𝗥𝗘𝗔𝗗𝗬 𝗧𝗢 𝗥𝗜𝗦𝗘 𝗔𝗡𝗗 𝗥𝗨𝗡? 💙💚❤️💛
From 𝗦𝗲𝗽𝘁𝗲𝗺𝗯𝗲𝗿 𝟮𝟭–𝟮𝟰, 𝟮𝟬𝟮𝟲, the Regional Development Council XII brings together the SOCCSKSARGEN regional community for four days of collaboration, camaraderie, wellness, knowledge, and public service under this year’s theme:

✨ “𝗥𝗗𝗖 𝗫𝗜𝗜 𝗥𝗜𝗦𝗘!: 𝗥𝗲𝘀𝗽𝗼𝗻𝘀𝗶𝘃𝗲, 𝗜𝗻𝗰𝗹𝘂𝘀𝗶𝘃𝗲 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗦𝗲𝗿𝘃𝗶𝗰𝗲-𝗢𝗿𝗶𝗲𝗻𝘁𝗲𝗱 𝗘𝗺𝗽𝗼𝘄𝗲𝗿𝗺𝗲𝗻𝘁” ✨

🌟 𝗙𝗘𝗔𝗧𝗨𝗥𝗜𝗡𝗚: 𝟮𝟬𝟮𝟲 𝗥𝗗𝗖 𝗪𝗘𝗘𝗞 𝗖𝗢𝗠𝗠𝗨𝗡𝗜𝗧𝗬 𝗥𝗨𝗡! 🌟
Back for its 2nd year, the 2026 RDC Week Community Run returns this September 23, 2026 (Wednesday) for another afternoon of fitness, fun, friendship, and community spirit! 🎉
This is the OFFICIAL Community Run of the Regional Development Council XII, held as part of the 2026 RDC Week Celebration.

📍 Koronadal City Hall Exit/Covered Walk
🕓 Assembly starts at 4:45 PM
💸 FREE RUN!
🏃 3 KM – All Home
🏃 5 KM – The Farm

Whether you are an experienced runner, a weekend jogger, joining with your officemates, or simply looking for a fun activity with family and friends, this run is OPEN TO ALL! 🙌

The Community Run promotes healthy and active communities while strengthening awareness of RDC XII, AmBisyon Natin 2040, and the SOCCSKSARGEN Regional Development Plan 2023–2028. This run is an opportunity to come together as one region moving toward a single vision. 🌱🤝

🎽 RACE BIB REMINDER
A total of 800 race bibs will be available. Race bibs are not pre-assigned and will be released on a first-come, first-served basis upon claiming.

Online registration helps us record participant information in advance and speed up the bib-claiming process. You may claim your race bib in advance at the DEPDev XII Office or on the day of the activity at the venue.

No bib? You can still join the run and win exciting prizes! 💙

💧 HYDRATION REMINDER
Water will be available at the start/finish area only. Participants are encouraged to bring their own tumbler, water bottle, or collapsible/folding cup as we keep the activity fun and eco-friendly. 🌏♻️

🎁 AND YES—EXCITING PRIZES AWAIT!
Watch out for trivia questions, surprise awards, and other fun prizes during the event. Follow the RDC XII page so you do not miss the announcements!

👉 REGISTER HERE: https://tinyurl.com/RDCWeekRun2026
Bring your energy, wear your comfortable running attire—or get a little creative with it 😉—and invite your colleagues, family, and friends!

Let us run for fitness, unity, community, and shared development.
UNITED IN SERVICE. TOGETHER, WE RISE! 🏃‍♀️🏃‍♂️💨

🏃🏃 SOCCSKSARGEN, 𝟱 𝗗𝗔𝗬𝗦 𝗧𝗢 𝗚𝗢! 𝗔𝗥𝗘 𝗬𝗢𝗨 𝗥𝗘𝗔𝗗𝗬 𝗧𝗢 𝗥𝗜𝗦𝗘 𝗔𝗡𝗗 𝗥𝗨𝗡? 💙💚❤️💛

From 𝗦𝗲𝗽𝘁𝗲𝗺𝗯𝗲𝗿 𝟮𝟭–𝟮𝟰, 𝟮𝟬𝟮𝟲, the Regional Development Council XII brings together the SOCCSKSARGEN regional community for four days of collaboration, camaraderie, wellness, knowledge, and public service under this year’s theme:

✨ “𝗥𝗗𝗖 𝗫𝗜𝗜 𝗥𝗜𝗦𝗘!: 𝗥𝗲𝘀𝗽𝗼𝗻𝘀𝗶𝘃𝗲, 𝗜𝗻𝗰𝗹𝘂𝘀𝗶𝘃𝗲 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗦𝗲𝗿𝘃𝗶𝗰𝗲-𝗢𝗿𝗶𝗲𝗻𝘁𝗲𝗱 𝗘𝗺𝗽𝗼𝘄𝗲𝗿𝗺𝗲𝗻𝘁” ✨

🌟 𝗙𝗘𝗔𝗧𝗨𝗥𝗜𝗡𝗚: 𝟮𝟬𝟮𝟲 𝗥𝗗𝗖 𝗪𝗘𝗘𝗞 𝗖𝗢𝗠𝗠𝗨𝗡𝗜𝗧𝗬 𝗥𝗨𝗡! 🌟

Back for its 2nd year, the 2026 RDC Week Community Run returns this September 23, 2026 (Wednesday) for another afternoon of fitness, fun, friendship, and community spirit! 🎉

This is the OFFICIAL Community Run of the Regional Development Council XII, held as part of the 2026 RDC Week Celebration.

📍 Koronadal City Hall Exit/Covered Walk
🕓 Assembly starts at 4:45 PM
💸 FREE RUN!
🏃 3 KM – All Home
🏃 5 KM – The Farm

Whether you are an experienced runner, a weekend jogger, joining with your officemates, or simply looking for a fun activity with family and friends, this run is OPEN TO ALL! 🙌

The Community Run promotes healthy and active communities while strengthening awareness of RDC XII, AmBisyon Natin 2040, and the SOCCSKSARGEN Regional Development Plan 2023–2028. This run is an opportunity to come together as one region moving toward a single vision. 🌱🤝

🎽 RACE BIB REMINDER

A total of 800 race bibs will be available. Race bibs are not pre-assigned and will be released on a first-come, first-served basis upon claiming.

Online registration helps us record participant information in advance and speed up the bib-claiming process. You may claim your race bib in advance at the DEPDev XII Office or on the day of the activity at the venue.

No bib? You can still join the run and win exciting prizes! 💙

💧 HYDRATION REMINDER

Water will be available at the start/finish area only. Participants are encouraged to bring their own tumbler, water bottle, or collapsible/folding cup as we keep the activity fun and eco-friendly. 🌏♻️

🎁 AND YES—EXCITING PRIZES AWAIT!

Watch out for trivia questions, surprise awards, and other fun prizes during the event. Follow the RDC XII page so you do not miss the announcements!

👉 REGISTER HERE: https://tinyurl.com/RDCWeekRun2026

Bring your energy, wear your comfortable running attire—or get a little creative with it 😉—and invite your colleagues, family, and friends!

Let us run for fitness, unity, community, and shared development.

UNITED IN SERVICE. TOGETHER, WE RISE! 🏃‍♀️🏃‍♂️💨

08/09/2026

On September 7, 2026, Tupi IP Leaders, with the support of Municipal Indigenous Peoples Mandatory Representative (IPMR) Hon. Pedro Digo, conducted an awareness campaign on Republic Act No. 11596 as part of the celebration of the 17th Indigenous Peoples Day at the Municipal Gymnasium, Tupi, South Cotabato.

The activity was carried out in partnership with Project COMPACT, Save the Children Philippines, and the Municipal Local Government Unit of Tupi, and was graced by the presence of Provincial IPMR Mr. Arnold P. Guerrero.

The campaign focused on strengthening awareness of RA 11596 and promoting community action to protect children and prevent child marriage among Indigenous Peoples communities. It also provided an opportunity for Indigenous Peoples from different barangays to celebrate and share their culture, talents, traditions, and identity.

Women, children, tribal leaders, and community representatives took part in the activity. Cultural presentations and talent showcase from participating barangays highlighted the richness of Indigenous Peoples’ heritage while fostering pride, unity, and participation.

07/09/2026

On September 6, 2026, the Barangay Health Workers Association of Barangay Acmonan, Tupi, South Cotabato conducted an awareness campaign on “Kalusugan at Karapatang Sekswal at Reproduktibo ng mga Bata” (Health and Sexual and Reproductive Rights of Children) in Barangay Acmonan, with participants from Sitio Tinago and Purok 6. The activity was conducted with the support of Project COMPACT, Save the Children Philippines, and the Barangay Local Government Unit (BLGU) of Acmonan, under the leadership of Hon. Daniel R. Aguinaldo, Barangay Captain.

The session discussed the importance of providing children and adolescents with age-appropriate information and guidance on their health and well-being. It also covered the prevention of adolescent pregnancy and child, early, and forced marriage (CEFMU), including their possible effects on education, health, psychosocial well-being, and future opportunities.

Through flyer distributions, participants were oriented on relevant child protection policies and legal measures, including Senate Bill No. 1979 and Republic Act No. 11596, which addresses child, early, and forced marriage and unions. The flyers also provided information on available reporting and referral mechanisms for cases involving child marriage, forced unions, abuse, or exploitation through the VAWC Desk, BCPC, PNP, MSWDO, DSWD, and other appropriate child protection organizations.

Following the orientation, a family sharing and reflection session was conducted, where families shared their experiences, learnings, and challenges from the family sessions facilitated with the support of Save the Children. Participants also shared how the sessions provided practical information and helped them reflect on their roles in supporting the well-being, protection, and development of their children.