ABOUT US

USM Satellite Socio-Economic Research and Data Analytics Center

Engage  │  Collaborate │  Advocate

Who We Are

The University of Southern Mindanao Satellite Socio-Economic Research and Data Analytics Center (USM Satellite SERDAC) is a research unit of the University of Southern Mindanao (USM) dedicated to advancing socio-economic research, data analytics, and evidence-based policy support in SOCCSKSARGEN, the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM), and neighboring regions.

The center was established on August 1, 2024, under the funding support of the Department of Science and Technology – Philippine Council for Agriculture, Aquatic and Natural Resources Research and Development (DOST-PCAARRD). On December 17, 2024, it was formally institutionalized as a research unit under the Office of the Vice President for Research, Development, and Extension (OVPRDE) by virtue of Board of Regents Resolution No. 177.

Managed by the Department of Agricultural Economics and strategically located in Kabacan, Cotabato, the center provides geographic accessibility to a broad network of state universities and colleges (SUCs), research and development institutions (RDIs), government agencies, and development practitioners across Mindanao.

Background and Rationale

Socio-economic research enables a deeper understanding of the complexities of human societies and the interplay of social and economic factors that shape collective existence. The establishment of Socio-Economic Research and Data Analytics Centers (SERDACs) represents one of the most crucial institutional innovations of PCAARRD, providing state universities and colleges, consortium member institutions, and research and development institutions with the capacity to conduct quality socio-economic research.

USM Satellite SERDAC responds to the growing need for an accessible, well-equipped, and technically competent center that can generate, analyze, and disseminate socio-economic data and research outputs for development planning and policy-making across the region. As part of the SERDAC-Mindanao network, the center plays a critical role in widening the reach of socio-economic research support to institutions and researchers in SOCCSKSARGEN and BARMM.

Our Vision

A leading center for evidence-based socio-economic research and data analytics that drives sustainable development in SOCCSKSARGEN and the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM).

Our Mission

Generate, analyze, and disseminate high-quality socio-economic data and research outputs that inform policy-making, community development, and academic inquiry, while providing meaningful experiential learning opportunities for future researchers and analysts.

Our Core Values

Our Objectives

The center’s objectives are aligned with USM’s vision and mission as well as that of SERDAC-Mindanao. Specifically, the center aims to:

  • Provide a facility equipped with appropriate equipment for socioeconomic research and development.
  • Widen the reach of SERDACs and the university in providing capacity-building initiatives to socio-economic and non-socio-economic researchers.
  • Enhance access of researchers in SOCCSKSARGEN, BARMM, and other neighboring regions to licensed software and relevant journals.
  • Aid PCAARRD, SERDACs, other satellite SERDACs, and USM on capacity-building, policy analysis, and information management initiatives.
  • Serve as a repository of socioeconomic and demographic data and research in the region.

Service Areas and Coverage

Strategically located in Kabacan, Cotabato, the USM Satellite SERDAC provides geographic accessibility to BARMM, Northern Mindanao, and neighboring regions. The center’s primary service areas include:

Legal Basis and Mandate

The USM Satellite SERDAC derives its authority and mandate from the following issuances:

  • BOR Resolution No. 177 (December 17, 2024) — Formally institutionalizes the USM Satellite SERDAC as a research unit under OVPRDE.
  • CHED Memorandum Order No. 46, Series of 2012 — Directs SUCs to contribute to nation-building through research, knowledge, and skills development.
  • DOST-PCAARRD Project Agreement (August 1, 2024 – July 31, 2025) — Provides funding and operational framework for the satellite center.
  • University of Southern Mindanao Research, Development and Extension Policy — Governs research operations within the university.
  • Data Privacy Act of 2012 (Republic Act No. 10173) — Governs the handling and protection of personal data collected in research activities.