USM BS Ag Econ Celebrates 42 Years, Charts Plans for 2026

The Bachelor of Science in Agricultural Economics program of the College of Business Development Economics and Management (CBDEM) at the University of Southern Mindanao (USM) celebrated its 42nd anniversary today, November 21, 2025, at the University Commercial Building, USM, Kabacan, Cotabato.

Retirees Dr. Lorna G. Valdez and Dr. Norma U. Gomez were also present at the event. They both expressed their support for the program and inspired the students by sharing the program’s humble beginnings and the achievements that have contributed to the department’s progress.

Meanwhile, Dr. Helen A. Macailing, the Department Chairperson, presented the department’s accomplishments for 2025. She began by sharing the increase in student enrollment. She also highlighted that 62.5% of the faculty members have already completed their PhDs, while the remaining faculty are expected to finish theirs next year. In addition, she recognized the awards received by faculty members, along with their active involvement in research and extension activities. All faculty members—100%—attended trainings and workshops this year.

The department has secured ₱26, 965,000 in external research grants and ₱165,000 from local funding. Dr. Macailing also presented the various paper presentations and publications produced by the BS Agricultural Economics personnel.

During the program, the faculty members introduced several initiatives, explaining their names and purposes. These initiatives aim to promote the department and support its continued growth over the years. 

• AgriEconnov8 – A research agenda that offers students different research topics to choose from.
• Oikonomia – A collection of abstracts from undergraduate research.
• All4Juan Extension and Outreach Program – An extension initiative carried out in coordination with other CBDEM departments.
• Agri ECONnect an Alumni Zoomustahan – Programs created to engage alumni and develop projects that benefit current students through zoom teleconference.
• Econews Unplugged – An economics podcast featuring students discussing economics-related topics, uploaded on the department’s Facebook page.
• Serdac 2.0 – a project that will receive a DOST grant for the establishment of its building at USM.

Moreover, the department also introduced the official theme song of the Junior Philippine Economic Society (JPES).

Abdulkadil I. Ango, a BS Ag Econ Alumnus, joined the celebration as the guest of honor and speaker. Mr. Anggo, a Magna Cum Laude graduate in 1999, narrated his journey in his student life and how he started his career.  He said that he came from a simple family, and that with perseverance and hardwork Mr. Ango is now the Supervising Agriculturist at the Department of Agriculture Regional Field Office XII. 

In his speech, he highlighted the roles of BS Ag Econ graduates in the industry. He also mentioned that there are lots of opportunities that await for the BS Ag Econ graduates. 

“May we continue to carry the excellence in agriculture policy and development. Let us be the movers of change, the stewards of progress,” he spoke. 

Before he ended his message, he shared words for the audience to reflect on, using the acronym USM AG ECON:

Uphold excellence.
Serve the communities. 
Make informed decisions. 

Advance innovations. 
Grow markets. 
Empower farmers. 
Create impact. 
Optimize resources. 
Nurture the future-ready economy. 

BS Agricultural Economics, a Level IV accredited program that began in 1983, is planning to launch its new program name next year. The department is also currently striving to become a Center of Excellence.

Also present in the activity were Ms. Qunielyn L. Durendes, the Vice president for Administration and Finance representing USM President, Cheryl Dulay, the Dean of the College, alumni, students, and guests from different departments of CBDEM.