USM PALMA Cluster Campuses Celebrate 2nd Commencement Exercises with 234 Graduates

The University of Southern Mindanao (USM) PALMA Cluster Campuses, composed of Libungan, Aleosan, and Alamada campuses, produced two hundred and thirty-four (234) graduates in its 2nd Commencement Exercises on July 1, 2024, held at the Libungan Municipal Gymnasium, Libungan, Cotabato. 

Out of 234 graduates, 46 of them graduated cum laude and 4 with honors. Along with USM Main Campus and USM -Kidapawan City Campus (USM-KCC), graduates of 2024 received original copies of their diplomas after USM President Francisco Gil N. Garcia instructed Vice President for Academic Affairs Marcos Monderin and Admission and Records Office Director Nelia Du.

Gov. Emmylou Lala Taliño Mendoza, MNSA, was represented by Hon. Mohammad Kelie U. Antao, a member of the Bangsamoro Transition Authority (BTA), as the guest of honor and speaker. He highlighted the importance of being grateful to the late Mayor Christopher “Amping” Cuan, the parents, the local and provincial government, and the USM community for their contribution to the success of the graduates of USM PALMA. 

Arnel C. Camral, a Bachelor of Elementary Education graduate who earned the highest General Weighted Average in USM PALMA Cluster Campuses, delivered his word of thanks as the representative of batch 2024. Camral, who received the President Francisco Gil N. Garcia (FGNG) academic excellence award, emphasized the significance of inclusivity in USM as there were graduates already married and above college-age students. He also acknowledged their parents, who sacrificed to help them reach the long-awaited graduation day.

“The presence of USM in our municipalities not only enhances [our] access to higher education but also promotes the overall growth and development of our communities.” He concluded. 

Significantly, the USM – PALMA Cluster Campuses, which started its operation in 2019, produced 176 graduates last year.