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A total of 3,574 students, including graduates of associate, undergraduate, and graduate programs, were conferred their degrees and certificates during the 80th Commencement Exercises of the University of Southern Mindanao (USM) held on June 23 and 24, 2026, at the University Auditorium in Kabacan, Cotabato.
Of the total number of graduates, 454 earned Latin honors, including 38 Magna Cum Laude and 416 Cum Laude awardees. The College of Education (CED) produced the highest number of Latin honor graduates with 87, followed by the College of Arts and Social Sciences (CASS) with 82.
In terms of total graduates, the College of Agriculture recorded the highest number with 585, while the College of Arts and Social Sciences followed with 399.
The graduation rites were conducted in two clusters. Cluster 1, held on June 23, included graduates from the College of Agriculture, College of Veterinary Medicine, College of Business, Development Economics and Management, College of Health Sciences, College of Trades and Industries, College of Engineering and Information Technology, and the Institute of Middle East and Asian Studies. Cluster 2, conducted on June 24, comprised graduates from the Graduate School, College of Education, College of Arts and Social Sciences, College of Human Ecology and Food Sciences, College of Science and Mathematics, and College of Human Kinetics.
Prior to the commencement exercises, graduates participated in baccalaureate services held at the start of each cluster program. Serving as baccalaureate speaker, Ptr. Venancio M. Minggong, Senior Pastor of Filipino Vineyard in Kidapawan City, delivered a message to the graduating class as they prepared to transition from university life to the next stage of their journey.
As part of the baccalaureate program, the Tribute to Parents was held in recognition of the support, sacrifices, and encouragement extended by families throughout the graduates’ years in the university.
During the Cluster 1 commencement exercises, M’lang Mayor Dr. Emmanuel M. Abonado served as Guest of Honor and Speaker. In his address, he encouraged graduates to make use of the knowledge and skills they gained from their education as they begin their professional careers. The program also featured the message of Class Salutatorian Erlyn May C. Gener, who reflected on the experiences and challenges that shaped the graduating class.
For the Cluster 2 rites, Dr. Edwin L. Cruzado, representative of the First Congressional District of Cotabato, served as the Guest of Honor and Speaker. In his address, he challenged the graduates to continue learning beyond the university and to contribute meaningfully to their respective professions and communities. The program also featured the valedictory address of Justine Nova A. Tayabas, who shared her inspiring journey and encouraged her fellow graduates by assuring them that they, too, can achieve their goals and succeed in their chosen paths.
Family members, faculty, university officials, and guests joined the graduates in celebrating the completion of their studies during the two-day commencement exercises.
