World Food Programme Visits USM
June 23, 2025
Beyond the Mountains: The Journey of Dr. Jonald L. Pimentel
June 24, 2025
Marking a new chapter in the leadership and advancement of the University of Southern Mindanao (USM), Dr. Jonald Lozarito Pimentel was formally installed as the University’s 8th President during an investiture ceremony held on June 24, 2025, at the University Auditorium, USM, Kabacan, Cotabato.
Among the distinguished guests were Commission on Higher Education (CHED) Commissioner and Chairperson of the USM Board of Regents, Dr. Desiderio R. Apag III; CHEDRO XII Regional Director, Dr. Rody P. Garcia represented by Engr. Jhan Jkem B. Fontanilla; and Senior Researcher Dr. Fumiko Yasuno from the National Institute for Educational Policy Research in Japan.
In his welcome remarks, Engr. Fontanilla, highlighted the importance of visionary leadership in steering higher education institutions toward relevance and responsiveness in a rapidly changing world. He noted that Dr. Pimentel’s appointment comes at a crucial time when USM is poised for growth, innovation, and deeper commitment to the public service.
One of the highlights of the event was the symbolic presentation of the University’s institutional emblems.
Commissioner Apag, together with Director Phlorita Ridao, officially vested Dr. Pimentel with the academic regalia, symbolizing the honor, responsibility, and commitment required to uphold USM’s fourfold mission: instruction, research, extension, and production.
Following this, Hon. Jeffrey Esparagoza and Dr. Leorence C. Tandog bestowed the Presidential Medallion, representing the authority of the presidency and the inclusive leadership it champions. Meanwhile, Hon. Willie Jones B. Saliling and Dr. Debbie Marie B. Verzosa presented the University Mace, denoting the office’s integrity, responsibility, and guiding principles.
Additionally, Hon. Paul John B. Ongcoy and Ms. Quenielyn L. Durendes handed over the University Ring, a symbol of the President’s enduring commitment to USM and the obligation to lead with empathy, vision, and accountability. Hon. Kenny Floyd Montelija and Dr. Samsudin A. Panday completed the symbolic rites by presenting the University Charter and Seal, reaffirming the President’s duty to uphold academic integrity and advance the public good.
In his investiture address, Dr. Pimentel shared his vision of inclusive and transformative leadership grounded in academic excellence and service to the broader community. He emphasized the importance of shifting mindsets across the institution to reimagine USM as a research-driven and entrepreneurial university.
“We will prioritize quality instruction, strengthen research and extension, and embrace smart, sustainable strategies and entrepreneurship that uplift our students and our communities,” Dr. Pimentel said.
“Today, I commit to lead with openness, with courage, and with a heart that listens. I make no claims to perfection, but I pledge to act with integrity, to seek wisdom in counsel, and to always return to the mission of service,” he added.
In his message, Commissioner Apag expressed full confidence in Dr. Pimentel’s ability to steer the university toward greater relevance and impact. “Someday no one will remember the size of today’s stage, but they will remember whether you make USM more compassionate, more courageous, and more committed to truth and dignity… Lead for USM, Lead for Mindanao. ” Apag remarked.
The ceremony also featured a grand academic procession and cultural performances by the USM Culture and Arts Performance Group, adding vibrance and solemnity to the occasion.
Among those who extended their messages of support was Minister Kadil “Jojo” M. Sinolinding Jr., MD, DPBO, from the Ministry of Health–Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) and Member of the Parliament. He said, “With your dedication and proven track record since joining USM in 1994, the university is undoubtedly in good hands. USM is close to my heart. I have seen how it grew through the years, and with your leadership, it will soar even higher.”
Dr. Pimentel, a native of Bukidnon who was raised in Misamis Oriental, is a long-serving faculty member and administrator. Renowned for his expertise in Mathematics and Statistics and his passion for inclusive development, he brings a strong understanding of the academic and socio-economic landscape of Mindanao.
He officially began his four-year term on February 14, 2025, succeeding Dr. Francisco Gil N. Garcia, the university’s 7th President, who followed the leadership of Dr. Jesus Antonio G. Derije. Dr. Pimentel assumes the presidency with a firm commitment to strengthening academic quality, expanding access to education, and deepening USM’s engagement with communities across Central and Southern Mindanao.
The members of the academic community, national and local government officials, alumni, retirees, and institutional partners witnessed the ceremony. These guests gathered to celebrate this milestone in the university’s history.
