USM NeGOATsyo Project Team Heads to M’lang for Strategic Consultation and Needs Assessment Validation
May 18, 2026
The University of Southern Mindanao (USM) officially opened its observance of Ease of Doing Business (EODB) Month 2026 through a special convocation program held on Monday, May 18, 2026, at the Administration Building of USM in Kabacan, Cotabato.
As part of the convocation, Dr. Lawrence Anthony U. Dollente, chairperson of the USM- Anti-Red Tape Act (ARTA), explained the meaning behind the campaign logo and its three-tiered design representing connectivity, transparency, accountability, and integrity in public service. He also explained the importance of compassionate and committed service in every transaction within the university.
“The observance also served as a reminder that every transaction matters, and that quality public service begins with commitment and compassion. As a public educational institution, the University of Southern Mindanao continues to uphold the principles of good governance and service excellence,” Dollente remarked.
A presentation on last year’s initiatives that promoted faster and more efficient public service within the university was presented. Moreover, the event also recognized offices and units that achieved outstanding client satisfaction ratings for their commitment to quality public service.
The observance aligns with the national government’s push for more efficient and transparent public service. Ease of Doing Business Month was officially declared through Proclamation No. 818, signed by Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. in March 2025. The proclamation promotes faster transactions, reduced processing time, streamlined government procedures, and improved delivery of services for Filipinos.
Relatively, several offices are now implementing fast lane services for commonly requested documents and transactions. The Admission and Records Office (ARO) promotes faster processing of certifications for various purposes, while the Human Resource Management and Development Office (HRMDO) has established a fast lane for requests involving Certificates of Employment and Service Records. The Accounting Office also offers a fast lane service for the processing of Certificates of Net Take Home Pay.
Spearheaded by the USM-ARTA team in partnership with the University Quality Assurance Office (UQAO), this year’s celebration carries the theme, “Achieving Results through Transparency and Accountability: Towards a More Productive Bagong Pilipinas.”
