USM, Tumanggap ng mga Aklat mula sa KWF bilang Bahagi ng Pagdiriwang sa Buwan ng Wika
August 15, 2025
The University of Southern Mindanao (USM) has taken a decisive step in strengthening its academic leadership in sports, physical education, and human performance with the formal launch of the College of Human Kinetics (CHK) formerly known as Institute of Sports, Physical Education, and Recreation (ISPEAR) on August 12, 2025, at the University Auditorium, USM, Kabacan, Cotabato.
CHK Dean Dr. Norge D. Martinez opened the ceremony by highlighting the college’s expanded role in learning, research, community service, and innovation. She also credited Professor Ruben Tagare, PhD, for his persistence in completing the groundwork and documentation that led to CHK’s official recognition, Dr. Lawrence Anthony Dollente for the guidance in pursuing the institute’s goal, Dr. Jonald Pimentel for the support, faculty members of CHK, and the USM Board of Regents.
In his message, President Pimentel lauded the dedication of CHK faculty, past and present, and announced that the university will work toward providing the college with its own building.
Meanwhile, in an interview Professor Tagare recalled that the push for CHK’s creation accelerated when Dr. Dollente pointed out that ISPEAR already had three recognized programs. “I drafted the proposal and brought it through every level of review until the board’s approval. This has been a 32-year aspiration, even by our retired professors. I saw our unit’s capacity to grow and be recognized nationally. We have strong faculty and capable students. What we needed was the right time and the right support. President Pimentel gave that support, and we seized the opportunity,” he said.
He expressed gratitude to Dr. Dollente for his guidance, Dr. Martinez for her openness and support, the ISPEAR faculty for their cooperation, and USM President Dr. Pimentel for backing the conversion process.
The college’s roots trace back to January 1985 with the creation of the Sports, Physical Education, and Recreation Center (SPERC). In December 1992, it evolved into the Institute of Sports, Physical Education, and Recreation (ISPEAR) through Board Resolution No. 12, series of 1992. For decades, it served as the university’s hub for physical education courses, producing graduates in Bachelor of Physical Education (BPEd) and Bachelor of Science in Exercise and Sports Sciences (BSESS).
The transformation of ISPEAR into the CHK was approved under BOR Resolution No. 71, series of 2025, during the 160th Regular Meeting of the USM Board of Regents on August 5, 2025, marking a new chapter in the university’s leadership in sports and human kinetics education.
