USM Completes 2025 COA Audit
May 4, 2026
The University of Southern Mindanao (USM) and the Land Bank of the Philippines (LBP) signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) on April 28, 2026, held at the Office of the President, USM, Kabacan, Cotabato, to jointly roll out AGRISENSO PLUS and LIFTING MSME.
The said programs aimed at expanding financing access for farmers, agripreneurs, cooperatives, and micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs).
USM and LBP’s partnership supports broader efforts to strengthen financial inclusion in the agriculture sector and among small businesses. As part of the initiative, an integrated launch will be conducted, featuring program presentations, financial literacy sessions, information booths, and assistance desks for inquiries. Engagement activities will also be held to introduce available financing opportunities.
As stated in the MOU, the activity will bring together smallholder farmers, start-up MSME entrepreneurs endorsed by USM and local government units, as well as USM graduating students and alumni, particularly those from agriculture-related fields.
Present during the signing were USM President Dr. Jonald L. Pimentel; Private Sector Representative Regent Jerry John M. Taray; Vice President for Research, Development and Extension Dr. Debbie Marie B. Verzosa; and Vice President for Administration and Finance Ms. Quenielyn L. Durendes, along with faculty members.
Representing LBP were Atty. Christian Harvey N. Wong, Mr. Edgar Alcordo, and other employees.
Earlier this year, LBP-North Cotabato officials paid a courtesy visit to the USM President to discuss plans for supporting agriculture-related graduates, particularly by giving them opportunities to start their own enterprises.
