USM Publication and Printing Unit Unveils 2025 Top Scopus Authors
April 25, 2026
The University of Southern Mindanao (USM) recently conducted a series of online accreditation survey visits covering several academic programs across its campuses. The activity, held via Zoom from April 20 to 24, 2026, formed part of the continuing quality assurance efforts of the Accrediting Agency of Chartered Colleges and Universities in the Philippines (AACCUP).
Among the programs evaluated were the PhD in Education majors in Biology, Mathematics, Applied Linguistics, and Filipino, which underwent a preliminary survey. The MS in Animal Science was reviewed for its second survey. The BS in Veterinary Technology also had its preliminary survey, while the Bachelor of Sports and Exercise Science, with majors in Fitness and Sports Coaching and Fitness and Sports Management, underwent its first survey. Also, Bachelor of Physical Education was surveyed for Level III. The AB in Islamic Studies and BS in Criminology were both evaluated for their second survey. At the Kidapawan City Campus, the Master of Technology Education was also assessed for its second survey.
The accreditation team was composed of experts from various higher education institutions, including Dr. Eduard C. Taganap, Dr. Celiaflor Rodriguez, Dr. Christopher Lord T. Tulauan, Dr. Noel M. Celeste, Prof. Vincent Jim P. Palor, Prof. Francis Jose S. Dela Cruz, Prof. Julius Ceazar G. Tolentino, Dr. Benhur A. Asid, Dr. Najeeb Razul A. Sali, Dr. Emmanuel R. Mago, Dr. Dionesia R. Beraña, Prof. Purisima G. Romero, Dr. Maria Teresa Y. Acantilado, and Prof. Rocelyn M. Imperial. Prof. Virginia B. Medrano served as the team librarian, while Dr. Arrianne Michelle F. Fabro acted as the overall coordinator.
During the survey visit, accreditors reviewed program documents, observed presentations, and held discussions with faculty and staff. The team commended the university for its continued commitment to quality education and provided recommendations to further strengthen program implementation. As noted by the accreditors, “with the same spirit of excellence, collaboration and innovation, USM is surely on its way to reaching the greater heights.”
In a separate activity, another AACCUP Online Accreditation Survey Visit was conducted from April 21 to 23, 2026, for the third survey of the Bachelor of Physical Education program. The evaluation was led by Dr. Alonzo L. Mortejo, with Dr. Elizabeth H. Alonzo and Dr. Noralyn M. Natura.
In his report, Dr. Mortejo stated, “Academic development efforts were systematic and well-supported, resulting in a competent and productive academic workforce actively engaged in teaching, research, and extension.” He added that the program demonstrates “a strong culture of quality, continuous improvement, and stakeholder engagement, supported by adequate resources, effective leadership, and well-documented process.”
Overall, the accreditation survey visits highlighted both the strengths of the university and the opportunities for further development, reinforcing USM’s commitment to delivering quality education and responsive academic programs.
The activity was spearheaded by the University Quality Assurance Office under the leadership of Dr. Lawrence Anthony Dollente.
