USM Awarded Plaque of Recognition for December 2025 ABELE Performance
January 27, 2026
The University of Southern Mindanao (USM) through the Finance Management Services Office hosted the Entrance Conference of the Commission on Audit (COA) on January 26, 2026, at the USM Skyroom, Kabacan, Cotabato.
The activity is the official commencement of the audit engagement that serves as a venue to discuss the terms of engagement and to seek auditee’s cooperation and assistance as to their responsibilities under the terms of engagement.
Dr. Jonald L. Pimentel, the USM President attended the activity. He expressed thanks to the COA team for its assistance to USM in the audit process.
Rosita M. Mustapha, the State Auditor V, led the COA team with Claudenne Steffanie D. Castillo, State Auditor III, headed by Ma’am Cabiba M. Mamaganding, State Auditor IV.
In an interview, Dr. Jay-R G. Vildac, the FMS Director, shared that COA conference helps them better understand what COA expects from them for the audit year.
“Since COA identifies specific focus areas every year, the conference gives our offices a clearer direction. This reinforces the policies and processes we already have in place,” he narrated.
He also said that the activity provided them the opportunity to revisit and review policies to ensure continued compliance and sound financial management across the university.
“COA’s message yesterday is a good reminder for all of us to work together. If we support each other and stay aligned, we can make sure that government resources are used properly and responsibly. At the end of the day, it’s about doing our part in fulfilling our mandate as a university,” the FMS Director ended.
The conference reinforces management’s accountability and commitment to comply with existing laws, rules, and regulations, while enabling the audited entity to prepare and provide necessary records promptly. Ultimately, the Entrance Conference aims to facilitate an efficient, orderly, and constructive audit process that supports good governance, financial accountability, and the proper use of public funds.
