RDE, PDO Strategize 2027 Targets with Research and Extension Heads, Review 2026 Accomplishments
November 9, 2026
USM CBDEM Celebrates 34th Founding Anniversary
November 9, 2026
The University of Southern Mindanao (USM), through the Kundo E. Pahm Learning and Resource Center (KEPLRC), opened its National Book Month Celebration on November 9, 2026, with the Kapehan sa Aklatan at the KEPLRC in Kabacan, Cotabato.
With the theme “Basa, Salin, Daloy,” the celebration highlighted the role of books, reading, and authors in advancing knowledge and supporting learning and research. Among the activities was the unboxing of donated books and the distribution to university officials of copies of Dynamics of Institutional Building: The USM Experience by Dr. Teofilo C. Dela Cruz, a publication documenting the university’s institutional development.
KEPLRC Director Associate Professor Susan S. Martinez said the annual observance encourages people to value reading and become more mindful of the sources of information they use.
“Ito po ay taon-taon nating ipinagdiriwang upang bigyang-halaga ang pagbabasa at ang pagkuha ng tamang impormasyon mula sa tamang sources,” Martinez said. She also thanked authors whose works help enrich knowledge and support learning.
She explained that the theme encourages readers to ask questions, verify information, and recognize the importance of translating and sharing knowledge.
USM President Dr. Jonald L. Pimentel, for his part, recognized the contributions of writers and authors and urged the university community to sustain its reading culture amid changes in how people access information.
He observed that many people, particularly younger readers, now rely on the internet for reading and research. However, he pointed out that libraries continue to serve an important purpose in education.
“Technology has evolved, and practices have evolved, but the purpose remains the same, and that is for our students to learn,” President Pimentel said.
He also emphasized the library’s contribution to the university’s academic programs by providing students and faculty members with access to books, references, and other learning resources.
During the discussion, Ms. Dielita M. Garcia shared her experience as a librarian and encouraged participants to make use of both printed and digital reading materials. She pointed out that although reading through electronic devices is convenient, libraries remain valuable because some books and references are not readily available online.
KEPLRC also presented the activities scheduled throughout the celebration, including the Human Book Chain, Storytelling Challenge, Bookmark Book Challenge, and Book Talk.
The National Book Month Celebration will culminate on December 7, 2026, with activities involving the university community.
