NDMU Completes and Presents CPD Region XII–Commissioned Research on Koronadal City's Pagkalinga Program, Advancing Evidence-Based Governance and Policy Directions

KORONADAL CITY, South Cotabato – Notre Dame of Marbel University (NDMU) contributed to regional policy discussions and public governance initiatives through the presentation of a commissioned research study during the Regional Conference on Population and Development 2026, organized by the Commission on Population and Development (CPD) Region XII on July 21, 2026, at the Antonina Hurtado Multipurpose Hall, NIA Region XII.

The research, titled “From Social Protection to Empowerment: A Case Study on the Participation to ‘Pagkalinga sa Kabataang Magulang at Kanilang mga Anak’ (PKKMAK) Program of Adolescent Mothers and the Experiences of Its Implementers in Koronadal City, Region XII,” was presented by Dr. Wilter C. Friales, Director for Student Affairs and Development of NDMU and the study’s lead researcher.

Conducted as a commissioned research project, the study examined the experiences of adolescent mothers participating in the PKKMAK Program and the perspectives of program implementers in Koronadal City. The findings highlighted the importance of integrated social protection mechanisms, community support systems, and stakeholder collaboration in empowering young mothers and improving their long-term well-being.

The presentation provided valuable evidence-based insights to government agencies, development practitioners, local government units, educators, and community stakeholders attending the conference. By translating research findings into actionable recommendations, the study contributed to ongoing efforts to strengthen public policies and governance strategies addressing adolescent pregnancy and youth development in Region XII.

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As one of the featured research presentations during the conference, the study underscored the critical role of academic institutions in generating knowledge that informs decision-making and supports responsive public governance. It also demonstrated NDMU’s commitment to advancing research that addresses real-world social issues and contributes to sustainable community development.

The research team was composed of Dr. Wilter C. Friales as Lead Researcher, together with Ma'am Sheila Roma and selected NDMU Faculty and Staff. Through their collaborative efforts, the study provided stakeholders with empirical evidence that can guide future interventions, strengthen inter-agency partnerships, and enhance programs supporting adolescent mothers and their families.

The conference theme, “Realizing the Hopes and Aspirations of Young People through Population and Development: Building Evidence, Strengthening Partnerships, Transforming Futures,” resonated strongly with the objectives of the research. The presentation reinforced the value of evidence-based policymaking and highlighted how academic research can serve as a catalyst for positive social change.

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Through this engagement, NDMU reaffirmed its role as a partner in development, contributing research-based solutions that support effective governance, informed public policy, and the empowerment of vulnerable sectors within society.

Please provide the names of the research members, and I can integrate them seamlessly into the article.