USM College of Medicine Produces 37 New Medical Graduates
June 19, 2026
Thirty seven medical students of the University of Southern Mindanao (USM) College of Medicine received their degrees during the 2nd Commencement Exercises with Dr. Rommel T. Vargas serving as the Guest of Honor and Speaker on June 19, 2026, at the University Auditorium, USM, Kabacan, Cotabato.
Dr. Vargas, a pediatrician, reminded the graduates that a greater responsibility now begins as one chapter of their journey to becoming doctors have ended.
Drawing from his experiences in medicine, the healthcare administrator reflected on the realities of medical school and the meaning behind the title that the graduates now carry.
He spoke about the challenges familiar to every medical student— difficult examinations, long hours of study, and the demanding experiences in clinical clerkship. Despite these struggles, he encouraged the graduates to recognize the significance of what they had achieved.
“Today, as you receive your diploma, that is not just a piece of paper, it represents the fulfillment of your dreams to become doctor,” the Chief Executive Officer and President of St. Peregrine Hospital highlighted.
Beyond the graduates themselves, Dr. Vargas devoted part of his message to the parents and families who helped make the moment possible.
He acknowledged the sacrifices many families exerted to support their children through medical school, sharing how some parents endured financial hardships and personal sacrifices to ensure their children could continue pursuing their dreams.
“Before we celebrate ourselves, let us honor the people who made this moment possible,” he said.
He also thanked spouses, partners, friends, teachers, mentors, and hospital consultants who became part of the graduates’ journey, noting that their support helped carry students through some of the most challenging years of their lives.
As the new doctors prepare to enter the profession, he reminded them that medicine demands more than intelligence and technical skills.
“Medicine is unlike any other profession. It is not simply a career. It is a calling. It is a vocation,” the public servant remarked.
He discussed that patients often remember not only the treatment they receive, but also the way they are treated by their doctors.
“Patients seek doctors who listen before they speak, who understand before they judge, and who care before they cure,” he said.
According to Dr. Vargas, the advances in technology and medicine continue to transform healthcare, but no innovation can replace empathy, kindness, and genuine human connection.
He encouraged the graduates to remain lifelong learners, seek guidance from colleagues when necessary, and work together in caring for patients.
At the same time, he reminded them that challenges will continue even after graduation. There will be difficult cases, disappointments, and moments when they question themselves. During those times, he said, they should remember why they chose medicine in the first place.
“Always remember why you chose medicine,” he told the graduates.
Before concluding his address, Dr. Vargas challenged the graduates to carry with them the values of compassion, humility, integrity, and service as they begin their careers.
“The world needs doctors who are not only intelligent but compassionate, not only skilled but ethical, not only accomplished but humble, not only successful but committed to serve,” he ended.
Dr. Vargas is the Chairman of the Health and Sanitation Committee of the Municipality of Matalam. A Fellow of the Philippine Society of Medical Specialists, Inc., he has held various leadership positions in healthcare and served as a reservist medical officer of the Armed Forces of the Philippines during the COVID-19 pandemic, earning recognition for his contributions to public health and community service.
