USM Grants Cash Incentives to Topnotcher, Department of Criminal Justice Education
April 8, 2026
Reinforcing its role as a regional academic hub, the University of Southern Mindanao gathered around 400 students and faculty delegates from across Region XII for the SOX Political Science Summit 2026 on April 5, 2026.
The summit brought together participants from Notre Dame of Kidapawan College, Notre Dame of Marbel University, MSU-General Santos City, Notre Dame of Dadiangas University, Holy Trinity College of General Santos City, Sultan Kudarat State University, and Notre Dame of Tacurong College, fostering inter-institutional engagement among political science students and educators in the region.
National figures joined the event through virtual participation, including Senator Bam Aquino and Senator Kiko Pangilinan, who delivered messages highlighting the role of the youth in governance and nation-building. Also joining virtually were Dr. Reynold Agnes of Far Eastern University, president of the Philippine Political Science Association (PPSA), and Dr. Elaine Baulete of Mindanao State University- Iligan Institute of Technology, Mindanao representative of PPSA.
Dr. Nassef M. Adiong, served as the guest speaker of the summit. In his message he encouraged the students to stay aware, speak up, and take part in the issues of the community.
Designed as a platform for both academic rigor and student expression, the summit featured a range of activities including the Asian Parliamentary Debate, Policy-Making Competition, Essay Writing Contest, Poster-Making Competition, Quiz Bowl, Extemporaneous Speech Contest, Amazing Race, and Vocal Solo Competition.
Guided by its theme: “Igniting Excellence, Inspiring Change in SOX Region and Beyond”, the activity was organized by the USM Department of Political Science under the leadership of Prof. Ernesto A. Buenaventura Jr. in partnership with the USM Political Science Society.
The Department expressed gratitude for the support provided by the University administration, led by President Dr. Jonald L. Pimentel, along with the Office of the Vice President for Academic Affairs and the College of Arts and Social Sciences.
