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USM Honors Outstanding Alumni during 2025 USM Founding Anniversary
October 6, 2025
The University of Southern Mindanao (USM), in partnership with the MIT-USM Alumni Association, Inc. (MIT-USMAA), honored this year’s Distinguished Alumni Awardees during the Grand Alumni Homecoming held on September 30, 2025, at the Univeristy Commercial Building, USM, Kabacan, Cotabato.
The awards recognized outstanding graduates whose professional excellence, leadership, and community service continue to bring pride and honor to their alma mater.
Among the awardees was Frances C. Quilban (USM-ULS, Batch 1983), conferred the Distinguished Alumna Award for her achievements as Proprietor of Doming’s Steel. She was lauded for creating employment opportunities and uplifting her community through entrepreneurship.
Emmanuel M. Abonado, DVM (Batch 2000), current Mayor of M’lang, Cotabato, received the Distinguished Alumnus Award for exemplary leadership and public service, particularly in promoting progress, good governance, and community empowerment.
Muhyryn Sultan-Casi (AB Psychology, Batch 2011), Mayor of Pikit, was honored for her integrity, vision, and commitment to governance and community development, bringing distinction to USM through dedicated public service.
Geraldson A. Navarra, DVM, PhD (DVM, 2008; PhD AgriSci–Animal Science, 2025), was recognized for his service as Bureau of Quarantine Officer of DA XII. His work in public safety and agricultural protection earned him the Distinguished Alumnus Award for professional service and dedication.
Jurhamid C. Imlan, PhD (BSA-PBG, 1998; MS Animal Science, 2002), a Full Professor at USM, was honored for his academic excellence and research contributions in Halal Science and Production, exemplifying scholarship and service.
Erwin M. Durano, ABE (BS Agricultural Engineering, Batch 1982), former Area Manager of Pioneer Philippines and now Associate Unit Manager at AIA Philippines, was recognized for leadership in agribusiness and financial services, empowering individuals through financial literacy and security.
Harold B. Eslabon, DVM, MPA (Batch 2007), Vice-Mayor of Surallah, South Cotabato, received the Distinguished Alumnus Award for his commitment to progress, good governance, and community development in public service.
Lenie G. Forro, MAEd (BS Biology, Batch 1983), Science Division Supervisor, was commended for her outstanding leadership in advancing science education and fostering innovation in teaching and learning.
Atty. Leizle F. Fernandez (DVM, Batch 2012) was recognized for her professional excellence as Business Center Head of PS VisMin Operations, Bounty Plus, Inc., where she has led organizational growth and empowered people in the agribusiness sector.
Joyce M. Subillaga (MIT-STTLD, Batch 1971) was honored for entrepreneurial success as Proprietor of Spectrum Rice Grain Wholesale and Retail. Her enterprise has created livelihood opportunities and contributed significantly to local economic development.
MIT-USMAAI President Dr. Paul John B. Ongcoy presented the awards, commending the honorees for embodying the values of excellence, leadership, and service that USM instills in its graduates.
“The achievements of our distinguished alumni are not just personal milestones but legacies that continue to uplift communities, strengthen industries, and inspire future generations of USMians,” Dr. Ongcoy remarked.
The conferment of the Distinguished Alumni Awards highlighted the 2025 USM Grand Alumni Homecoming, uniting generations of alumni in celebrating shared achievements and reaffirming their commitment to the university’s enduring legacy of excellence.
Text: USM Alumni Affairs
