USM Enters UI GreenMetric 2026, Ranks 50th in PH
September 25, 2026
USM Hosts Invitational Games with HEIs Beyond Region XII
September 28, 2026
University of Southern Mindanao (USM) President Dr. Jonald L. Pimentel reported the university’s recent accomplishments and presented five priorities for the coming years during his second State of the University Address (SUA) on September 28 at the University Auditorium, USM, Kabacan, Cotabato.
The report covered USM’s developments in instruction, research, extension, innovation, administration, resource generation, and student services since his first SUA in 2025.
Among the figures presented was the university’s 4,937 freshmen enrollment for the first semester of Academic Year 2026–2027. A total of 4,954 students graduated in June 2026, including USM’s first five Juris Doctors.
Pres. Pimentel also highlighted the university’s performance in licensure examinations, and its recognition among the top performing schools in various programs. Additionally, he mentioned new academic offerings and external campuses, research and innovation initiatives, internationalization efforts, infrastructure projects, and improvements in university systems.
Programs for students through the Office of the Student Affairs particularly assistance for those facing financial and other needs, such as food assistance, transportation support, connectivity assistance, and cash grants were cited in the report.
In his address, Pres. Pimentel said that the true state of USM is not just about numbers or buildings. It is about its people, their resilience in facing challenges, their joy in celebrating achievements, and their commitment to doing their work well each day.
For the years ahead, Pres. Pimentel presented five priorities for USM: producing quality and globally competitive graduates; making USM a hub for inclusive innovation; deepening community transformation; building a sustainable and market-driven portfolio; and advancing innovative, accountable, and sustainable governance.
“Every USM graduate must be prepared to compete, contribute, and lead locally and globally,” he said.
Meanwhile, students who attended the SUA shared their expectations for the University in the coming years.
“Siguro yung expectations ko po is mag-improve pa po yung mga buildings, and facilities sa classrooms. Masyadong mainit, pero so far, maganda na rin po yung experience ko dito sa campus,” said Blessie Novy P. Marcos, a first year AB Political Science student, when asked what else the University could improve.
Moreover, a first year BS Nursing student Carl Gervane P. Gelacio thanked the University president for his commitment and leadership.
Pres. Pimentel, the university’s eighth president, delivered his second SUA before the USM community, including Provincial Governor of Cotabato Emmylou Taliño- Mendoza, represented by Vice Governor Rochella Taliño- Taray, members of the Board of Regents and Administrative Council, university officials, faculty and staff, students, alumni, retirees, government and industry partners.
