USM Prepares for ETEEAP
July 27, 2026
The University of Southern Mindanao (USM) welcomed 4,937 freshmen as it officially opened the first semester of Academic Year 2026-2027 through a University Convocation on July 27 at the University Auditorium.
The activity gathered members of the Board of Regents, Administrative Council, key officials, faculty members, and staff. It aimed to familiarize students with the University’s organizational structure and the offices they can approach for academic, administrative, and for other student-related concerns.
In his message, USM President Dr. Jonald L. Pimentel encouraged students to contribute to society by engaging in research and innovation, emphasizing that their work can extend beyond the University and benefit the country.
Vice President for Academic Affairs Dr. Leorence C. Tandog assured students of the University’s support throughout their academic journey.
“Kasama niyo kami sa bawat hakbang,” Dr. Tandog highlighted.
For the first time, USM also recognized the top-performing freshmen in the USM College Entrance Examination (USMCEE). The recognition honored students who obtained the highest entrance examination scores and aimed to encourage academic excellence among incoming freshmen.
John Randolf S. Jamero ranked first in this year’s USMCEE.
Sharing the second rank were Angel Lyka B. Ayoc and Lex Daniel S. Dador, while Isaiah Sky T. Organista and Myzyl James G. Aparece took the 3rd rank spot.
Students who placed in the Rank 4 were Althea Neguine P. Barri, Xyra Venice C. Penales, Charles Joshua M. Cabardo, Lady Dhennice E. De Vera, Sean Andrei M. Agapay, Mohammad Zuhayr M. Abdulnasser, and Ahron Josh C. Viernes.
Lastly, recognized as Rank 5 were John Renz N. Aribon, Immaculate Marian H. Umayan, Rubyrt D. Tajan, Terrenze John M. Longno, Dy Aliyya-Faith V. Amilbahar, Arjay H. Lopez, Mark Ezekiel S. Agrave, Shaina Thea T. Marzo, and Ernest John A. Guinsatao.
Notably, USM opened 30 additional first-year class sections this semester to accommodate the increase in freshmen enrollment.
