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The University of Southern Mindanao (USM) through the Office of Student Affairs (OSA) conducted an on-site orientation program to students in USM PALMA on August 11, 2025, at the USM Libungan covered court, Montay, Libungan, Cotabato.
During the program, Dr. Jonald L. Pimentel, USM President encouraged the students to continue the persistence that they have started and always aim for a career that can uplift people by creating jobs in the future.
“Compared to other countries, we are quite behind in terms of education. But I believe we can contribute… Let’s leave the mindset na if ga-graduate tayo, number one natin na plano is makatrabaho, dapat ang mindset natin ay paano maka create ng trabaho instead.” He spoke.
In connection, Dr. Leorence C. Tandog, Vice President for Academic Affairs supported the idea of the president and emphasized the importance of creating job opportunities and changing mindsets within the community. She also reminded the students to adhere to the academic policies, including maximum residency requirements for various programs.
As a refresher, Dr. Maria Leida M. Donque, OSA Director, encouraged the students to stand firm against involuntary collection of fees as a reiteration to protect students and teachers from such act.
Through the activity, key points that are vital to the students to optimize their experience while studying in USM were discussed.
Prof. Eugene G. Ranjo from the University Information and Communication Technology Office (UICTO) and Director Susan S. Martinez of the Kundo E. Pahm Learning Resource Center (KEPLRC) highlighted the institutional ICT and information resources accessible to students. Their message underscored the importance of responsible use in accordance with established guidelines of the university.
Meanwhile, representatives Randy Jr. B. Valdez (Budget Office) and Irvin A. Salise (Accounting Office) provided essential reminders regarding fund disbursement protocols. They clarified the availability of financial support for student-led initiatives, organizational allocations, and the procedures for faculty and staff reimbursements.
Further, Engr. Kathleen Mae B. Alucilja from the Student Development Services Department, alongside Prof. Sarah Jane C. Guerero of the Diversity and Integrative Services Department of OSA, outlined the university’s set of programs designed to enrich students’ extracurricular growth and participation. The discussion emphasized opportunities tied to student organizations and off-campus activities that improve holistic development beyond the classroom.
Prof. Bonifacio C. Solsoloy, Director of the National Service Training Program (NSTP), shared updates on the evolving direction of NSTP and its key components: Civic Welfare Training Service (CWTS) and Reserved Officers Training Corps (ROTC).
Finally, University Health Services (UHS) offered services to help students’ in their medical and dental concerns.
The activity is one of the initiatives of OSA to extend services particularly to meet and greet students outside the main campus. The activity gathered students of the extension classes, as well as the faculty members and staff.
