Cotabato Province, under the leadership of Governor Lala Taliño-Mendoza, has launched a Ramadan Rice Distribution program to extend support to neighboring municipalities in Maguindanao del Norte, Maguindanao del Sur, and Sultan Kudarat.
On March 24, 2025, a ceremonial rice distribution was held, where a total of 1,000 sacks of rice—100 sacks per municipality—were allocated to the towns of Datu Piang, Colombio, Datu Paglas, Northern Kabuntalan, Pagalungan, Sultan Mastura, Datu Montawal, General Salipada K. Pendatun, Datu Blah, and Sultan Kudarat. This initiative reflects Governor Mendoza’s commitment to fostering goodwill and strengthening ties with neighboring provinces, particularly in observance of Ramadan, a significant religious period for Muslim communities.
Governor Mendoza emphasized that this distribution effort is part of the province’s broader initiative to reinforce cooperation and unity, paving the way for a more peaceful and prosperous Cotabato.
Joining the rice distribution were CPPO Provincial Director PCOL Gilberto B. Tuzon and 2LT Karl Jay P. Cayandag of the 40IB, representing Battalion Commander LT COL Erwin Jay Dumaghan. Their presence further highlighted the spirit of collaboration between local government units and security forces in ensuring the success of the initiative.