No Shortcuts, Just Steady Learning: How Richard A. Camato Reached the ABELE Rank 10
December 17, 2025
The University of Southern Mindanao (USM) formally accepted additional academic buildings for USM Aleosan from the Provincial Government of Cotabato during a turnover ceremony held on December 16, 2025, at USM Aleosan, Cotabato.
The eight-classroom facility, constructed at a cost of Php 7.9 million, is expected to help strengthen the University’s academic programs and services for students, faculty, and the surrounding community. Construction of the building started on May 20, 2025, and was completed on October 16, 2025.
The ceremony was led by officials of the Provincial Government of Cotabato headed by Governor Emmylou “Lala” Taliño-Mendoza, together with Aleosan Mayor Eduardo Cabaya, Vice Mayor Felimon C. Cayang, Jr., and First District Board Members Roland D. Jungco, Shirlyn Macasarte-Villanueva, Rosalie H. Cabaya, and Sittie Eljorie Antao-Balisi. Members of the USM administration were led by USM President Dr. Jonald L. Pimentel, Vice President for Academic Affairs Dr. Leorence C. Tandog, PhD, and USM PALMA OIC Campus Director Dr. Gideon Sumayo.
In her message, Governor Mendoza reminded students of their role in shaping their own future, saying, “Naa sa inyong mga kamot ang inyong kaugmaon… It is a matter of discipline.” She emphasized that opportunities provided through education must be matched with commitment, hard work, and responsible decision-making to achieve lasting progress.
Meanwhile, USM President Dr. Pimentel expressed the University’s appreciation to the Provincial Government of Cotabato for its continued support, noting that the new facility stands as a result of strong cooperation between the provincial government and the academic sector in advancing education and development in the province.
The activity was attended by provincial government officials, USM administrators, faculty members, staff, students, and other guests.
