USM Joins Mindanao IRR Consultation for the Virology and Vaccine Institute Act
January 22, 2026
UNESCO Peace Education Laureate, International Lecturers Visit USM for a Two-Day Seminar-Workshop
January 22, 2026
Sherifa Rohannie K. Adiong, President of Adiong Memorial State College (AMSC), along with AMSC personnel conducted a benchmarking visit at the University of Southern Mindanao (USM) on January 22, 2026, focusing on USM’s academic programs, research facilities, and quality assurance systems.
The visit opened with a courtesy call on USM President Dr. Jonald L. Pimentel, who welcomed the delegation and discussed the university’s institutional priorities and program directions.
The AMSC officials then toured various facilities across the USM campus, beginning with the College of Science and Mathematics (CSM). Dr. Philip Benjamin, the college Dean, received the visitor. Dr. Krizler Tanalgo, the Biology Program Head, presented the college’s academic programs and laboratory capabilities. Among the facilities highlighted was the water testing laboratory, which serves as an accredited testing center of the university.
Further, the delegation also visited the Science and Technology Building, where Dr. Lydia C. Pascual, Director of the Research and Development Office (RDO), enumerated USM’s ongoing research initiatives. As partner institutions under the Mindanao-Sulu-Palawan Innovative Research and Development Consortium (MINSUPALA), discussions focused on current projects and research output products, as well as possible research undertakings that AMSC may pursue.
Moreover, the benchmarking visit continued at the USM Agricultural Research and Development Center (USMARDC), where the delegation was introduced to the university’s agricultural research initiatives and products, including those related to rubber, cacao, and other crops. Research activities under the SOCCSKSARGEN Agriculture, Aquatic and Natural Resources Research and Development Consortium (SOXAARRDEC) were also discussed.
At USMARDC, the delegation had a meeting with Dr. Jurhamid Imlan, Director of USMARDC, and Dr. Tammie Solpot, Officer-in-Charge Vice President for Research, Development and Extension. The group later visited the cacao processing center and the biotechnology laboratory to further observe USM’s research facilities.
Lastly, the AMSC personnel paid courtesy visits to the Human Resource Management and Development Office (HRMDO), led by Dr. Nerissa Dela Viña, and the University Quality Assurance Office, headed by Dr. Lawrence Anthony Dollente. Discussions during these meetings covered internal audit processes, application for ISO certification, and other accreditation requirements.
AMSC officials shared that a follow-up visit is being planned, which will involve their students, to further expose them to USM’s academic and research environment.
Along with the AMSC President were Luis Siddick F. Adiong, Chief of Staff; Khalid A. Ibrahim, Planning Officer II; and Norhan L. Abay, Internal Auditor III.
The benchmarking visit was organized by Prof. Bryan Lloyd Bretaña, Director of USM’s Office of International Affairs.
