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The University of Southern Mindanao (USM) vowed to strengthen commitment to service and innovation as it marked its founding anniversary on Wednesday, October 1, 2025, drawing together guests, students, faculty, non-teaching employees, alumni, and retirees at the University Auditorium, USM, Kabacan, Cotabato.
Vice President for Research, Development, and Extension Dr. Debbie Marie B. Versoza opened the program by asking the audience, “Bakit kayo nandito? Anong nararamdaman ninyo?” She emphasized that behind every activity during the USM Founding Anniversary lies the heart and dream of the founder, as well as the milestones the University has achieved. She further noted that the celebration should always remind everyone of the true meaning of honoring the institution’s founding.
The program also featured the awarding of the Outstanding Alumni that was presented by Alumni Association President Dr. Paul Jhon B. Ongcoy. The Outstanding Alumni were honored for their accomplishments in public service, education, research, and business. Dr. Ongcoy underscored that these recognitions show the reach of USM’s influence in shaping professionals whose impact is felt nationwide.
During the program, USM President Dr. Jonald L. Pimentel introduced keynote speaker Commission on Higher Education (CHED) Commissioner Desiderio R. Apag III, D.Eng, PCpE, who urged the university to keep dreaming big, to believe in the power of knowledge, and to remain committed to service and excellence. In his speech, Commissioner Apag emphasized that education is not just about information transfer but about transformation. Rooted in the celebration’s theme of this year, “USM 2025: Transforming Ideas into Enterprise, Knowledge into Excellence.”
Vice President for Administration and Finance Quenielyn L. Durendes, CPA closed the gathering by extending gratitude to the USM community, and partners who have continuously supported the university. She pointed out that the university’s history isn’t just about the past, but a living spirit that inspires to open opportunities, grow talents, and to help in nation building through education.
“No matter the challenges, the shared strength of one community—the management, faculty, staff, students, alumni, and partners—will always lead toward greater possibilities, with excellence, integrity, and service lighting our way,” she mentioned.
Meanwhile, a Kanduli Program was held prior to the Anniversary Celebration, where Dr. Che Abdulshaik F. Plang shared a heartfelt message, saying that while we may not be able to replicate the founder’s achievements, we can follow her example of being selfles
Further, President Pimentel reminded everyone that every classroom built, every success story written, and every life touched by USM is part of the enduring legacy of the late founder, Bai Hadja Fatima Matabay Namli Plang. “Her story is a gentle reminder that greatness is not measured by titles or accolades, but by the lives we uplift, the opportunities we create, and the dreams we nurture,” he added.
Founded in 1952 as the Mindanao Institute of Technology, started its operation on 1954 and elevated to university status in 1978, USM has grown into one of the leading state universities in the region. Its founding anniversary underscored its continuing role in producing professionals, advancing research, and sustaining innovation in Philippine higher education.
