ASYNCHRONOUS CLASSES AND WORK-FROM HOME ARRANGEMENT ON SEPTEMBER 14, 2026
September 9, 2026
Eighteen retirees of the University of Southern Mindanao (USM) received recognition as they officially closed their government careers during Saludo Retirado 2026 on September 9 at the University Commercial Building in Kabacan, Cotabato.
The recognition program, organized by the Human Resource Management and Development Office (HRMDO), gathered university officials, colleagues, and members of the USM community to pay tribute to the retirees and their years of service to the university.
The USM Faculty Association Inc. (USMFAI), headed by Regent Engr. Willie Jones Saliling, and the USM Academic and Support Staff Association Inc. (USMASSAI), led by Dr. Concepcion Magallon, presented plaques of recognition and tokens to the honorees.
A surprise video presentation gave the retirees an opportunity to hear heartfelt messages from former colleagues and friends, as they recalled the years they spent working together.
The Vice President for Administration and Finance (VPAF) Ms. Quenielyn L. Durendes, in her message, spoke about the place the retirees have come to hold in USM’s history.
“Each one of you has an important role in the history and development of our university,” VPAF Durendes said.
She also recognized the early mornings, long hours at work, challenges hurdled and responsibilities carried out which all marked their service to the university. Although some of these contributions may not have been given immediate recognition, VPAF Durendes said that these efforts have contributed in shaping USM to become what it is today.
Adding to the tribute, the University President Dr. Jonald L. Pimentel, meanwhile, encouraged the retirees to look at retirement as a new chapter rather than the end of their journey.
He further conveyed that with retirement comes more time for family, personal interests, and experiences that may have been set aside while working. He also reminded the retirees to carry with them “gratitude for the past, joy in the present, and hope for the future.”
Speaking on behalf of the retirees, Dr. Josephine R. Migalbin of the College of Agriculture emphasized the need to live a life with purpose, even after retirement.
“Retired, but not tired,” Dr. Migalbin said, noting that retirees can still share what they have learned, mentor others, and contribute to their communities.
Dr. Migalbin also thanked the families of the retirees for standing with them throughout their years in government service. She encouraged those who remain in USM to continue carrying the university forward in the work they do.
Through Saludo Retirado 2026, USM gave its 18 retirees a final salute and honored their years of service to the university they helped build and serve.
