USM Qualifies for Seal of Protection Award 2025

The University of Southern Mindanao once again has proven its commitment to quality government service by qualifying and being nominated for Seal of Protection Award 2025 of Government Service Insurance System (GSIS) as announced by Bai Cerynea S. Biruar, Branch Manager of GSIS Kidapawan, on June 5, 2025, at the Office of the President, USM, Kabacan, Cotabato.

The Seal of Protection Award is a recognition awarded by the GSIS and continues to recognize outstanding efforts in public asset protection. This distinction is granted to local government units (LGUs) and other government agencies that demonstrate exemplary commitment to safeguarding public properties by ensuring sufficient insurance coverage and implementing effective risk management strategies.

Susan J. Teope, Staff Officer II along Biruar visited Dr. Jonald L. Pimentel, University President to give an announcement on the same day. During the visit, Manager Biruar gave USM a headstart to prepare the necessary requirements to efficiently execute the submission and to avoid inconvenience.

In an interview with Staff Officer Teope, the validation and assessment of USM will be determined based on the total value of properties submitted to the Commission on Audit (COA). She further explained that various awards are granted based on the percentage of insured properties under GSIS. Institutions securing insurance coverage for at least 80% of their declared properties qualify for the Bronze Award, while higher percentages exceeding 80% may lead to Silver or Gold Awards.

The validation of the submitted documents and requirements will start from July to October 2025, meanwhile the awarding of the said award is expected to commence on the 28^th of November of the same year.