TDP Scholars Receive Stipends Today

The Tulong Dunong Program (TDP) scholars of the University of Southern Mindanao (USM) received their cash assistance today, October 20, 2025 at the University Guidance Center, USM, Kabacan, Cotabato.

Board Member Karen Michie De Guzman attended the event as the representative of Hon. Emmylou T. Mendoza, Governor of the Province of Cotabato. In her talk, she reminded the students of their important role as scholars, emphasizing that they are the hope of the nation, deserving of the taxpayers’ investment, and valuable partners of the government in nation-building— as long as they stay dedicated to their studies and do their best.

“You are worth that taxpayers’ money. And we want you to be our partners, in community and nation building. However, we can only be partners if you are equipped with the right tools before you exit [in] this university—then you must study well,”  She remarked.

Meanwhile, USM President Dr. Jonald L. Pimentel, expressed his gratitude to the Government of Cotabato for their continued support to the students of USM. He thanked Rep. Raymond Democrito C. Mendoza, the Representative of the Third Union Congress of the Philippines (TUCP ) in partnership with the Provincial Government, for the scholarship grants provided for the USM students. 

Further, the Kiera Lilyana R. Garcia, one of the TDP scholars from AB Psychology, expressed that the cash assistance greatly helps students, especially with the rising cost of goods in the market. She also shared that the presence of representatives from the Provincial Government and USM officials serves as a strong source of moral support, inspiring them to persevere in their studies.

TDP scholars receive ₱7,500 each semester to support their academic journey. The distribution of these incentives is efficiently managed by the Office of Student Affairs in coordination with the Scholarship Department.