USM Hospital Marks 47th Anniversary with Life-Saving Bloodletting Drive
February 19, 2026
The University of Southern Mindanao (USM) actively participated in a collaborative meeting initiated by the DOST XII Cotabato Provincial Office with the Land Bank of the Philippines–North Cotabato Lending Center on February 16, 2026, in Kidapawan City, Cotabato, to align programs that will accelerate startup development and product standardization in the province.
The meeting, spearheaded by DOST Cotabato and aligned with the priority of Governor Emmylou Lala Taliño-Mendoza to promote local enterprise growth, brought together representatives from government, finance, and academia to strengthen support for emerging startups in Cotabato Province.
Representing USM were USM Regent Mr. Jerry Taray and Vice President for Research, Development and Extension Dr. Debbie Marie B. Verzosa, together with SG Agripreneur student delegates of the university. The student delegates were among those who previously participated in a benchmarking activity in Singapore in October 2025, where they explored innovation ecosystems and startup development models to be contextualized for local enterprise initiatives.
During the meeting, LANDBANK expressed its commitment to finance qualified startups, while DOST Cotabato detailed various technical interventions, including laboratory and shelf-life testing, the use of SARAi technology for agri-enterprises, and trainings designed to enhance efficiency and product quality.
Meanwhile, USM reaffirmed its commitment to support the initiative through its research, extension, and innovation programs, particularly in providing technical expertise, training, and incubation support to local entrepreneurs and student-led enterprises. The university also highlighted its continuing efforts to promote innovation-driven development through its academic programs and community engagement initiatives.
Also present during the meeting were Provincial Director Michael T. Mayo representing Regional Director Engr. Sammy P. Malawan, Board Member Hon. Ivy Dalumpines, LGU Kabacan Councilor Hon. Jonathan Tabara, and representatives from the Office of the Vice Governor Hon. Rochella Marie Ella Taliño Taray, along with partner stakeholders from various sectors.
Through this collaborative initiative, USM, in partnership with DOST and LANDBANK, strengthens its role as a key academic institution in advancing innovation, supporting product standardization, and empowering startups in Cotabato Province. The collaboration reflects a shared commitment to building a sustainable and competitive local startup ecosystem anchored on science, technology, and inclusive development.
Written by: Rahima A. Cabunto
Photo credits: DOST XII Cotabato Provincial Office
