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The University of Southern Mindanao (USM) received two major recognitions during the Healthy Settings Recognition and Awarding conducted by the Department of Health (DOH) Region XII through its Health Promotion Unit on September 29, 2026, at The Farm, Carpenter Hill, Koronadal City.
USM was recognized as the Outstanding Health Promotion Integrated National Service Training Program (NSTP) – Public Higher Education Institution Category and received the Most Outstanding NSTP-CWTS award for strong alignment with the Health Promotion Framework Strategy (HPFS) and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
The DOH Region XII organized the activity to recognize institutions and communities for their commitment to promoting and sustaining healthy settings through effective, innovative, and collaborative health promotion initiatives.
Associate Professor Bonifacio C. Solsoloy, USM NSTP Director, received the awards together with NSTP Heads Dr. Joel Misanes, Associate Prof. Winnie T. Reyno, Associate Prof. Jeson Donque, and staff Rhea Mae P. Coloma.
The DOH also conferred a Certificate of Appreciation to Associate Professor Solsoloy for his active involvement and participation in the Outstanding Health Promotion Integrated NSTP Program 2025–2026. He likewise received a Certificate of Recognition as the Most Outstanding NSTP Director.
According to Associate Professor Solsoloy, the recognition reflects the collective efforts of the NSTP personnel, faculty coordinators, and support units. The program also benefited from strong institutional support, coordinated implementation, and careful preparation of documents and activities.
He added that in order meet these standards for the awards, the USM NSTP integrated health promotion into its forums, campaigns, and community immersions. Activities focused on healthy lifestyles, environmental care, vaccination, and health literacy.
The awarding strengthened the partnership between the DOH and the Commission on Higher Education (CHED) in advancing health promotion initiatives and healthy settings across the region.
