The Mindanao Development Authority (MinDA) recognized South Cotabato as a leading example of culture-driven and inclusive development as the province celebrated its 60th Foundation Anniversary and formally opened the 27th T’nalak Festival on July 13.
In his keynote address, MinDA Chairperson Secretary Leo Tereso A. Magno said South Cotabato’s 60 years of progress demonstrate how cultural preservation, innovation, environmental protection, and responsive governance can work together to foster sustainable growth and strengthen Mindanao’s competitiveness.
Magno stressed that safeguarding cultural identity complements development efforts, noting that every achievement of South Cotabato contributes to the broader progress of Mindanao. Drawing inspiration from the T’nalak weaving tradition, he said the province continues to inspire others while building a stronger future for the region.
This year’s celebration, themed “Our Culture, Our Strength, Our Pride,” highlights the province’s indigenous heritage, agricultural achievements, tourism destinations, creative industries, and the enduring contributions of its tri-people communities to regional development.
South Cotabato Governor Reynaldo “Jun” Tamayo Jr. emphasized that the province’s unity among its 17 tribes has laid the foundation for lasting peace, shared identity, and continued progress.
Magno also cited the T’nalak Festival as more than a cultural celebration, saying it has created livelihood opportunities, boosted tourism, promoted indigenous craftsmanship, and transformed local traditions into drivers of economic growth.
The MinDA chief likewise commended Governor Tamayo for advancing people-centered governance through investment promotion, digital innovation, environmental protection, disaster resilience, and collaborative leadership that have positioned South Cotabato among Mindanao’s top-performing provinces.
He further described South Cotabato as one of Mindanao’s agricultural hubs and a growing tourism destination, where culture, resilient communities, and environmental stewardship continue to fuel inclusive development.
MinDA reaffirmed its partnership with the provincial government in pursuing programs that promote resilient, inclusive, and sustainable growth for communities across Mindanao.
The agency also highlighted its continuing implementation of the Mindanao Development Corridors Program in support of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s infrastructure agenda, aimed at improving transport networks, logistics, and investment connectivity throughout the island.
In support of climate resilience initiatives under the Bagong Pilipinas program, MinDA said it remains committed to strengthening watershed management through the Allah Valley Landscape Development Alliance in partnership with South Cotabato and neighboring local governments.
The agency also continues to expand cooperation under the BIMP-EAGA framework by promoting stronger socio-cultural ties, educational exchanges, and people-to-people connectivity while creating more opportunities for trade, tourism, and investment across the East ASEAN Growth Area.
