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A newly constructed Multi-Purpose Building that stands beside the Institute of Middle East and Asian Studies (IMEAS) was officially turned over to the University of Southern Mindanao (USM) on June 23, 2025 at the USM Main Campus, Kabacan, Cotabato.
Funded through the initiative of former Congressman Hon. Mohammad “Tong” P. Paglas of the Lone District of Maguindanao del Sur and implemented by the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) Region XII, the building will serve as a dormitory for students from Maguindanao del Sur, of whom are enrolled at USM.
University officials led by USM President Dr. Jonald Pimentel formally received the facility through a ribbon-cutting ceremony, a site inspection, and a short program.
In his message, President Pimentel expressed his gratitude to everyone involved in the project, including the previous university administration. “Ang building na ito ay patunay that our collaborations are indeed fruitful. It is our way to show our friendship to the people of Maguindanao del Sur,” hesaid.
Dr. Samsudin S. Panday, Vice President for Resource Generation & Entrepreneurial Services, also conveyed appreciation and emphasized the building’s importance. “Dahil limited ang mga boarding house na available sa Kabacan, napakalaking bagay nito for USM,” he noted.
Representing former Congressman Paglas, Hon. Alex Pompong highlighted that education has always been a priority for the former legislator. Despite the building being outside his district, he chose to support USM because of the significant number of Maguindanao del Sur students studying at the university.
He also shared a message from the former congressman:
“I am at peace because in the span of three years we have moved, built, and delivered—not for politics, but for the people. Hindi man ako nabigyan ng panibagong mandato, masaya akong iniwan ko ang aking tungkulin na may saysay. Hindi lang sa papel, kundi sa buhay ng ating kabataan. Ang dormitoryong ito ay bunga ng malasakit, hindi pangako ng kampanya. Ito ay bahagi ng paninindigan na kahit wala na ako sa posisyon ay nananatiling nakatayo para sa edukasyon ng kabataan.”
The construction of the multi-purpose building began on November 21, 2024, and was completed in accordance with quality and safety standards. Members of the administrative council, employees, and students attended the event.
