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Showing academic excellence for 33 years, the College of Business, Development, Economics, and Management (CBDEM) of the University of Southern Mindanao (USM) celebrated its 33rd Founding Anniversary with the theme “Competence Balanced with Discipline: Shaping Ethically Motivated Leaders” on November 7, 2025, at the University Auditorium, USM, Kabacan, Cotabato.
Dr. Analyn Gonzales, Faculty member of CBDEM, emphasized in her welcome message that thirty-three years marks an important milestone that represents the continuing pursuit of excellence of the college. She also mentioned that the theme for the celebration is more than just a statement.
“It is our guiding principle. In an increasingly complex and evolving world, technical competence is absolutely essential. But it is discipline and a strong ethical foundation that truly distinguish a leader,” she said.
She added that the college remains committed to producing graduates who are not only skilled but also guided by integrity and social responsibility.
Representing the guest of honor, Vice Mayor Herlo P. Guzman Jr. of Kabacan, Councilor Allan Dela Peña read the Vice Mayor’s message, that focused on the importance of competence, discipline, and ethics in leadership.
“Competence allows us to trust both politics. Discipline ensures that we can grow with commitment, and ethics reminds us that every decision we make may affect the lives of others,” he remarked.
He urged students to use their abilities to lead with purpose and compassion, and to remember that leadership is not measured by titles but by the positive change one brings to others.
During the event, the college conferred the Gawad Gintong Sulo awards to individuals and institutions who have made remarkable contributions in their respective fields. The Gintong Sulo para sa Kaunlarang Pang-Ekonomiya was given to Albert O. Pascua and Virgie Pascua, owners of Gelyn’s Boarding House and Gelyn’s Glass and Aluminium Supply and Printing Services. The Gintong Sulo ng Pamumuno at Mabuting Pamamahala was awarded to Hon. Armando M. Quibod, Mayor of the Municipality of Makilala. The Gintong Sulo ng Kababaihan sa Pag-unlad was received by Eunice P. Lu-Cabiao, owner of Eun’s Inasal and Euneun Frozen Yoghurt House. The Gintong Sulo ng Kabataang Tagapagbago was awarded to Hon. Karen Michie T. De Guzman, Chairperson of the Sangguniang Kabataan Provincial Federation, while the Gintong Sulo para sa Inobasyon at Teknolohiya was presented to Dr. Cheryl Dulay of M. Dulay’s Vineyard Grape Farm.
In his closing message, Dr. Jay-R Vildac, overall chair of the anniversary celebration, thanked the organizing committee, faculty, and students for their effort and support in making the event successful. He said he was grateful to everyone who helped and remained committed throughout the weeklong celebration.
“Our anniversary focused on discipline and ethics. This is very important for us, especially in management, business, and accounting because of the recent happenings in the Philippines,” Dr. Vildac said.
He also reminded the students and faculty to continue carrying the CBDEM banner “with pride, purpose, and perseverance.”
The college separated from the College of Agriculture in 1992 and became the Institute of Development, Economics, and Management, now known as CBDEM. Through the years, it has continued to expand its academic programs, strengthen research and extension activities, and produce graduates who are competent, disciplined, and guided by ethical leadership, marking thirty-three years of CBDEM’s commitment to excellence and service at the University of Southern Mindanao.
