USM Ranks 2nd Among Top Performing Schools, Produces Topnotcher in February 2026 CLE
March 13, 2026
3,933 scholars Recognized at USM 48th University Recognition Program
March 14, 2026
“Life will not always be smooth. There will be seasons of comfort and seasons of difficulty. What truly matters is not the situation itself, but how you respond to it.”
These were the words of Engr. Rotelo B. Cabugsa as he delivered his message as the Guest of Honor and Speaker during the 48th Recognition Program of the University of Southern Mindanao (USM) on March 13, 2026 at the University Auditorium, USM, Kabacan, Cotabato.
In his speech, he shared that the achievement of the 3,933 awardees became even more meaningful and inspiring because they did not only complete academic requirements but also conquered extraordinary challenges along their journey.
He then reflected on how the pandemic affected both professional duties and personal responsibilities. To illustrate this, he brought up the story of Hidilyn Diaz, who took home the Philippines’ first-ever Olympic gold medal.
He recounted how Diaz endured difficult training conditions—uncertainty over whether the Olympics would push through, isolation, homesickness, and the pressure of carrying a nation’s hope.
“Instead of giving in to fear or frustration, she remained disciplined, focused, and. faithful,” the PRC Director uttered.
He then connected Diaz’s story to the experiences of the students.
“Like her you faced sudden changes—online classes, unstable internet connections, limited resources, and the emotional toll of isolation.”
“Many of you struggled at first. Yet through determination, sacrifice, and support of your families, you adapted. Today, you stand here as proof that resilience produces results,” he underscored.
Moreover, Cabugsa also pointed out that the pandemic brought unexpected changes in education. According to him, the crisis forced the education sector to evolve, opening new platforms, tools, and opportunities that had never been explored before.
Before concluding his message, Engr. Cabugsa left the audience with a final reflection.
“The pandemic reminded us that life can shift overnight. It did not matter whether we are rich or poor, strong or weak— everyone was affected. This teaches us humility. We cannot rely solely on our capabilities. We are not masters of the universe. We plan, we work hard, but ultimately we entrust everything to God,” he spoke.
Engr. Cabugsa is the Regional Director of the Professional Regulation Commission (PRC) Regional Office XII. He oversees the PRC Regional Office XII Main Office and its satellite offices in BARMM, General Santos City, and Kidapawan City.
He finished his Bachelor of Science in Chemical Engineering at Cagayan de Oro College. He also completed the Chemical Engineering Technology program at Mindanao State University–Iligan Institute of Technology. In addition, he earned a Master in Public Administration from Southwestern University in Cebu City.
