The University of Southeastern Philippines (USeP) conducted the Launching of USeP-Malabog Extension Campus, held on June 22, 2022, 11:00 a.m. to 03:00 p.m. at Paquibato National High School, Brgy. Paquibato Proper, Paquibato District, Davao City.

The event started with a welcome message from the Barangay Malabog Punong Barangay Hon. Jessielito C. Areja. He welcomed all the guests and attendees and shared their experiences on how the USeP-MEC became a realization of their efforts to bring quality tertiary education in Paquibato District. He also thanked all the government offices and agencies and the communities who supported the project. Dr. Lourdes C. Generalao, USeP President gave her inspirational message and said that she also understood the emotions felt by Hon. Areja, that finally, USeP-MEC is now in Paquibato.

A keynote message was given by the City Mayor and incoming Vice President Hon. Sara Z. Duterte, expressing her congratulations to the USeP on the launching of their two (2) program offerings of the USeP-MEC. She emphasized that education is a right, one that regardless of the circumstances, is something that must be accessible to every Filipino. Because through education, they can mold more empowered individuals that would become proactive contributors to the further development of their communities. She also commended the USeP for their serious commitment in the establishment of the USeP-MEC in Paquibato District, and thanked the Barangay Malabog, Paquibato National High School, Peace 911, CHED, DepEd, the IP communities, school officials of teaching and non-teaching staff and the parents and students for their continuous dedication to ensure that despite the circumstances, nobody is left behind in the pursuit of quality education.

The Vice Mayor and incoming Davao City Mayor Hon. Sebastian Z. Duterte, also gave his congratulations to the USeP for the launching of its first two program offerings in their Malabog Extension Campus (MEC), namely: Bachelor of Science in Agribusiness and Bachelor of Science in Entrepreneurship. He also said that the City Government of Davao welcomes the significant development in Davao City’s education sector. The USeP-MEC will not only provide learning for Davaoeños in Paquibato District, but will also play a vital role of its communities. He added that he also shares the commitment to make education accessible for everyone.

The CHED XI Regional Director Dr. Maricar R. Casquejo represented by Chief Education Program Specialist Dr. Luis D. Perez, DepEd XI Regional Director Dr. Allan G. Farnazo, CESO IV, Indigenous Knowledge System and Practices (IKSP) Head, Ata Indigenous Political Structure (IPS) Tumanuron Boyson Anib, Jr. and DOST XI Assistant Regional Director Mirasol G. Domingo extended their congratulations to the USeP and their partners into the success of today’s event.

Barangay Paquibato Proper Hon. Meljoselph P. Escobidal gave a closing message where he thanked all of the guests, attendees and to everyone who made the event and USeP-MEC project possible.

A photo opportunity with the guests was also given to all of the participants and the Temporary Facilities Tour was conducted by the USeP Team for everyone who were present.