USM Attends 27th Regular Session of SP Cotabato
February 11, 2026
The University of Southern Mindanao Hospital marked its 47th Founding Anniversary through a commemorative celebration carrying the theme, “47 Years of Service: Caring Beyond Boundaries” on February 11, 2026, at USM Hospital, Kabacan, Cotabato.
The event gathered university officials, health professionals, government partners, former leaders, and hospital personnel to honor decades of public service and medical care for both the campus and surrounding communities.
Former Medical Directors Dr. Deodatu Garcia, who served the hospital for 37 years, and Dr. Betty Quiapo, who dedicated 31 years of service spoke during the program. In their messages, they recalled the early days of the hospital when only a few beds were available, and resources were very limited. Facilities were modest, equipment was scarce, and services were still developing.
They shared how the hospital relied heavily on commitment and resourcefulness to meet the needs of patients at that time. Seeing the hospital today, both former directors expressed happiness over how much it has grown. From serving a small number of patients, the hospital now attends to many more from the university and nearby areas. They also noted the present setup where the infirmary now caters specifically to students and employees, while the hospital serves the wider public.
Part of the celebration was the awarding of retirees of USM Hospital, giving recognition to former personnel whose years of work helped build and sustain hospital operations. The awarding ceremony served as a gesture of gratitude for their dedication and service.
Dr. Samsudin Panday, Vice President for Resource Generation and Entrepreneurial Services, delivered the message of USM President Dr. Jonald L. Pimentel. In the message, support was conveyed for the continued development of the hospital and its services.
Cotabato Vice Governor Rochella Marie Taliño Taray represented Governor Emmylou “Lala” Taliño Mendoza, in the activity. In her talk, she recognized the hospital’s role in providing medical services to communities and expressed support for its health programs and partnerships. “You are the proof that the service for health is a vocation and not just an office. To the USM Hospital, this success would not have been reached without all the collective efforts of each person who has made this hospital as it is,” she mentioned.
During the celebration, various health and wellness services were also conducted for participants and guests. These included health education sessions, Medicare Annual Physical Examination and YAKAP registration, and free consultation and orientation services for pregnant women. Wellness treats were also prepared such as free foot massage by KC Pause and Pamper, as well as free coffee for attendees.
Product displays from Department of Agriculture- Philippine Carabao Center at USM were also featured during the event, alongside the support of sponsors including Beybiko, M Lhuillier, and other partners. A raffle draw was likewise held, adding to the activities prepared for hospital personnel and guests.
The anniversary celebration was led by Dr. Liza Mariposque, current Medical Director of USM Hospital. Assisting in the preparation and overall coordination of the activity was Administrative Officer Dr. Concepcion Magallon, whose support in administrative management and event organization contributed to the smooth conduct of the celebration.
Now on its 47th year, USM Hospital continues its work in delivering healthcare services to the university community and the public, carrying forward its mission of care that goes beyond institutional boundaries.
