ILOILO CITY—Iloilo has been hailed as the country’s national champion in Population and Development (PopDev), taking home the coveted Rafael M. Salas Kaunlarang Pantao Awards for Most Outstanding Province in Localizing the PopDev Agenda.

The formal awarding took place on 26 November, at Eastwood Richmonde Hotel, Quezon City, with Executive Director V and Undersecretary Lisa Grace Bersales, alongside Deputy Executive Director Lolito Tacardon, personally handing over the plaque and a localization cash prize of P300,000 to Governor Arthur Defensor Jr. and the Provincial Population Office (PPO) team.

“PopDev is about the development of the most important resource of our country—our people. There is nothing more important than our people,” Governor Defensor said in his acceptance speech, highlighting the province’s relentless efforts to empower communities and strengthen Filipino families.

Iloilo was recognized for its innovative strategies and programs in tackling pressing population issues, including teenage pregnancy, unmet family planning needs, adolescent mental health challenges, malnutrition among children under five, limited teen center access, and low utilization of population data.

The province boasts the highest number of school-based multi-purpose teen centers in the country, with 102 centers already established across secondary schools as of 2025, and more under construction. These facilities, including the advanced Teen Center 2.0 buildings, serve as integrated hubs addressing the holistic needs of young people.

Beyond teen centers, Iloilo has also launched Family and Youth Development Centers (FYDCs) in various municipalities to foster stronger family ties and reinforce community relations. The PPO further maintains a comprehensive and updated population data bank covering all 43 local government units in the province, ensuring data-driven policy and program implementation.

The Rafael M. Salas Kaunlarang Pantao Awards celebrate local government units that excel in championing population and development programs, recognizing Iloilo’s exemplary commitment to inclusive growth, youth empowerment, and resilient families.

Governor Defensor lauded the Provincial Population Office, led by Atty. Ruel Von Superio, for its unwavering dedication in bringing the province to national prominence.