University of Southeastern Philippines

The University of Southeastern Philippines (USeP) is a regional state university created in 1978 through Batas Pambansa Bilang 12. The University is an integration of four state institutions particularly, the Mindanao State University-Davao, the University of the Philippines-Master of Management Program in Davao, the Davao School of Arts and Trades, and the Davao National Regional Agricultural School.

The University has three (3) campuses and one (1) extension campus, namely: Obrero (main) and Mintal Campuses in Davao City; Tagum-Mabini Campus which has two units – one in Tagum City and one in Davao de Oro; and Malabog Extension Campus in Paquibato District, Davao City. USeP offers graduate, post-baccalaureate, and undergraduate academic programs in the fields of engineering, education, arts and sciences, economics, business, computing, governance, development, resource management, technology, agriculture, forestry, accountancy, law, and medicine.

The University of Southeastern Philippines has the following mandate:

  1. To provide programs of instruction and professional training primarily in the fields of science and technology, especially medicine, fisheries, engineering, and industrial fields.
  2. To promote advanced studies, research and extension services, and progressive leadership in science, agriculture, forestry, fisheries, engineering and industrial fields, and other courses needed in the socio-economic development of Mindanao.
  3. To develop courses at the graduate level along the fields of specialization and to respond to the needs of development workers in the academic community.
  4. To provide non-formal education and undertake vigorous extension and research programs in food production, nutrition, health, and sports development. To offer scholarships and/or part-time job opportunities to deserving students from low-income families.

Charter and Mandates

Batas Pambansa Bilang 12 created the University of Southeastern Philippines (USeP) on December 15, 1978.

The University is an integration of four state institutions, namely:  the Mindanao State University-Davao, the University of the Philippines-Master of Management Program in Davao, the Davao School of Arts and Trades, and the Davao National Regional Agricultural School.

USeP was created with the following mandates:

To provide programs of instruction and professional training primarily in the fields of science and technology, especially medicine, fisheries, engineering, and industrial fields.

To promote advanced studies, research and extension services, and progressive leadership in science, agriculture, forestry, engineering and industrial fields, and other courses needed in the socio-economic development of Mindanao.

To develop courses at the graduate level along the fields of specialization and to respond to the needs of development workers in their academic community.

To provide non-formal education and undertake vigorous extension and research programs in food production, nutrition, health, and sports development.

To offer scholarships and/or part-time job opportunities to deserving students from low-income families.

Campuses and Academic Programs

From the four integrated institutions, the University now has five physical campuses spread all over Region XI. These are: the Davao City main campus in Obrero with an area of 6.5 hectares; the Mintal campus in Davao City which has an area of 2.8 hectares; the Tagum-Mabini campus, which has two (2) units, one in Tagum City with a 52.23-hectare land area, and the other one lies in a 106.10-hectare land area in Mampising, Mabini, Davao de Oro; and Malabog extension campus temporarily housed in Paquibato District, Davao City.

USeP offers programs of instruction in the following fields:

Education

Engineering

Arts and Sciences

Economics

Business

Technology

Information and Computing

Agriculture and Forestry

Development Management

Law

Medicine

The early years saw the birth of the College of Engineering and Technology on the Obrero campus, the College of Forestry and Agriculture at the Tagum and Mabini campuses, and the College of Arts and Sciences on the Mintal campus. The succeeding years witnessed developments in the academic and administrative realms of USeP.

In 1993, through a Board of Regents (BOR) resolution, External Studies Programs were established. These were: the USeP-Hinatuan Extension Program in Surigao del Sur; the USeP-Baganga External Studies Program in Davao Oriental; USeP-Kapalong College of Agricultural Technology and Entrepreneurship; and the USeP-Pantukan External Studies Program. These external studies programs were eventually converted into local colleges.

In 1996, the USeP-Bislig campus in Surigao del Sur was established. PICOP waived nine hectares of Barangay Maharlika, Bislig for the initial campus.

From 1993 to 1997, new units were created. Among them were the Mindanao Center for Policy Studies (MCPS); the Affiliated Non-Conventional Energy Center (ANEC) for Region XI; the Office of Admission and Student Records (OASR); the Medical Division; the Institute of Urban Finance and Management; the University Testing and Guidance Office (UGTO); the Project Implementation Unit (PIU); the Institute of Computing (IC), and the Center for Professional Board of Review for Teachers.

During the years of its growth, USeP continued the streamlining of the administrative and organizational structure of the University to make it more responsive to changing needs and enable the University to engage more in Instruction, Research, Development, and Extension (RDE), and Resource Management.

Developments in the Physical Realm

Changes in the physical realm of campuses in Tagum and Mabini have been very apparent as well. The once idle lands of these campuses have been transformed into productive and luscious plantations of coconuts, bananas, mangoes, and hybrid corn. Now, these lands have been turned into laboratory areas that provide hands-on training for students taking up Agriculture, Agricultural Engineering, and Forestry programs of USeP; at the same time, these laboratories serve as income-generating projects for the University.

Program accreditation and Level 4 status

Beginning in 2002, the Office of the President identified and pursued program accreditation as one of the major thrusts of the University. USeP started submitting its programs for accreditation by the Accrediting Agency of Chartered Colleges and Universities in the Philippines or AACCUP. In 2022, USeP had all of its accreditable programs accredited by AACCUP.

In 2005, and made official in 2007 by a tripartite body of the Commission on Higher Education, the Department of Budget and Management, and the Philippine Association of State Universities and Colleges, Inc., USeP was catapulted to Level 4 status from Level 2 in 2001. It is a distinct honor considering that USeP is one of only 13 universities out of 112 in the country that has Level 4 status. It means that USeP has achieved the standards required of a Level 4 university in the key result areas of Instruction, Research, Extension, and Financial Management Practices. At present, USeP is the only SUC in Region XI and is among 20 SUCs in the country with an SUC Level 4 Status.

In 2019, the results of the SUC Leveling 2016 Assessment were released by the Commission on Higher Education via CMO 12, s.2018. USeP has retained its status as SUC Level 4. USeP is the only SUC in Region 11 and is among the 20 of 111 SUCS in the country that has been granted level 4 status.

15-year USeP Strategic Plan

In 2007, the Board of Regents approved the 15-year strategic plan of the University.  Through the USeP Strategic Plan, 2007-2021, the University was able to craft its new vision, mission, and goals.  By 2021, the University has envisioned itself as a premier university in the ASEAN Region. By becoming one, USeP shall be a center of excellence and development, responsive and adaptive to fast-changing environments. USeP shall also be known as the leading university in the country that fosters innovation and applies knowledge to create value for social, economic, and technological developments. The University’s mission is to produce world-class graduates and relevant research and extension through quality education and sustainable resource management. Aligned with the University’s vision and mission are specific goals for Key Result Areas (KRA) on Instruction; Research, Development, and Extension; and Resource Management: KRA 1. Instruction – Produce globally competitive and morally upright graduates; KRA 2. Research, Development, and Extension (RDE) – Develop a strong RDE culture with competent human resources and responsive and relevant research that is adopted and utilized for development; and, KRA 3. Resource Management – Effective and efficient generation, allocation, and utilization of resources.

While USeP sets its sights on becoming a premiere university in the ASEAN region, helping in the development of Region XI and the entire Mindanao remains on its priority list. This explains the University’s graduate and undergraduate academic programs in Engineering and Technology, Computing, Teacher Education, Agriculture, Geology, Mining Engineering, Development Studies, Governance, Business, Economics and Econometrics, Environmental Management, the Natural Sciences, Mathematics and Statistics, and Languages. Through the Institute of Languages which has developed into the Institute of Languages and Creative Arts, USeP offers short-term foreign and Filipino languages.

Specialized tertiary education for IPs and incarcerated individuals

To cater to the education and training of indigenous people, the University, with partner institutions, offers specialized tertiary education to students coming from different indigenous groups in the country through the Pamulaan Center for Indigenous Peoples Education, established on the University’s Mintal Campus in 2005. The Center produced its first batch of graduates in 2010. USeP is the first University to offer tertiary Education exclusively for IPs.

In 2017, the University, with partners, also launched the Prison Rehabilitation and College Education Behind Bars program. This program, considered the first in the Philippines, provides Davao City Jail inmates the opportunity to earn a college degree.  The College Education Behind Bars (CEBB) program is hailed as one of the ‘Outstanding Government Programs/Projects’ by the National Economic Development Authority. In addition, it won second runner up in the 2023 Internationalization Champions of Nation Building and Sustainability (ICONS) in the Global Citizenship Award 2023 – SUC/LUC Category, given by the Commission on Higher Education - International Affairs Service (CHED-IAS).

Capability seminars and trainings

USeP has been a national provider of capability building and training for special education teachers and administrators in the country. Also, the University has been providing educational management and other training to foreign organizations like the Bangladesh Rural Advancement Committee, Pakistani teacher-educators, and other foreign nationals.

Rankings and Recognitions

For three consecutive years, 2011-2013, Quacquarelli Symonds, a trusted career and education network, listed the University of Southeastern Philippines as one of the top universities in Asia, from 2011-2014. According to QS University Rankings: Asia, USeP occupied the 251-300 bracket in 2013. This was the same bracket occupied by the University in 2012, while it was rated as the top 201+ in 2011. In 2014, USeP still made it in the 301+ QS university rankings. For three years in a row, 2011-2013, USeP consistently ranked fifth among the Philippine universities that made it to the list.  In 2014, USeP still made it into the top 10 schools in the country.

In 2012, the City Government of Davao awarded the University for its accomplishments, programs, and projects that have greatly contributed to the good image and socio-economic growth of Davao City. USeP was also a recipient of the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas Stakeholders’ Awards for Region XI under the Special Recognition for Advocacy Support-Public Information Campaign category.

In 2018 and 2019, the City Government of Davao, the Philippine National Police, and the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency awarded USeP for its drug rehabilitation program dubbed Sagop Kinabuhi Program 2, an Extension Program.

USeP is a Bronze Awardee for Maturity Level II in all HR Systems and was given regional Recognition and Award for CSC PRIME HRM in 2023. The University is the 2021 Freedom of Information (FOI) Champion in the State Universities and Colleges (SUCs) Category and Awarded with Certificate of Compliance from the FOI - Project Management Office (FOI-PMO) for five consecutive years (2017-2022). It is hailed as Champion of the 2021 GADTimpala- 1st Place on the Implementation of GAD in the tri-focal Functions.

The University was granted an Associate Membership to the ASEAN Quality Assurance Network.

Centers of Excellence and Development

In January 2016, the Commission on Higher Education recognized the University as a Center of Excellence in Teacher Education; a Center of Excellence for Agriculture; a Center of Development for the English program; a Center of Development for Information Technology; and a Center of Development for Forestry. USeP is also a National University for Agriculture in Region XI; and a Provincial Institute for Agriculture. As a Center of Excellence in Teacher Education, it is a national training hub for school administrators and special education teachers to upgrade their competencies and skills.

Significant Units in the University

The later part of 2015 up to the first half of 2016 saw the birth of significant units in the University including the Knowledge and Technology Transfer Division, where the convergence of instruction, research, and extension is ensured through its component offices: the Innovation and Technology Support Office (now Intellectual Property Management Unit), Incubation Unit (now Technology Business Incubation Unit), and Technology Transfer Unit. KTTD also manages the DigiHub FabLab Davao.

Safeguarding of own innovations and technology as an output of research and development can now be done in the University through the USeP ITSO (now IPMU), established in partnership with the Intellectual Property Office of the Philippines or IPOPHL, and the Department of Science and Technology. The IPMU, which functions as a patent search facility, and library for patent information and patent processes, is geared as IPOPHL’s extended institution for the protection and development of balanced and accessible intellectual property that will boost the Philippine economy. It is noteworthy that the Intellectual Property Office of the Philippines (IPOPHL) awarded the University as the number one patent filer in the Philippines for 2014 and 2015, having filed the most patents in those years. It was also given the Gold Award in 2023.

Performance in Licensure Examinations

The strong faculty development of the University and its selective admission policy have enhanced its highly satisfactory performance in standardized examinations. USeP has consistently accomplished high school performance ratings with topnotchers in licensure exams.

A study by the Philippine Business for Education from 2009-2014 showed that USeP is among the country’s top 10 teacher education institutions, based on licensure examination performance.

From 2001 to 2022, USeP produced more than 170 topnotchers in licensure examinations in various disciplines. It is a top-performing school ranking Top 1 in both the March 2019 and September 2019 Licensure Examination for Teachers – elementary level; Top 1 in February 2021 Geologist Licensure Examination; Top 3 in August and September 2022 and Top 2 in August 2023 Mining Engineer Licensure Examinations; and Top 5 in the 2023 Bar Examination.

Accessible Education

The University has an Equivalency Program that allows professionals and government workers to earn degrees. The Expanded Tertiary Education Equivalency and Accreditation Program (ETEEAP) is an educational assessment scheme that recognizes knowledge, skills, and prior learning obtained by an individual from non-formal and informal education experiences.

To meet market demand while ensuring quality education, USeP offers market and industry-driven courses, practices equivalency and accreditation of programs, and provides online classes through the USeP Virtual Learning Environment, mainly utilized as a delivery system for the eMaster of Business Administration.

Career Advancement for Alumni

The University does not just provide quality education but also opens a wider horizon of opportunities for its students and graduates to land jobs best suited to or aligned to their qualifications through the Public Employment Service Office in the University, established in partnership with the Department of Labor and Employment. The establishment of the University’s Career and Alumni Center in the later part of 2017, provided a bridge that links the students to different industries around the world.

The Balay Alumni is being constructed at the USeP Tagum Unit, Tagum-Mabini Campus. The construction is being funded by the USeP Alumni Federation while the lot is the counterpart of the University.

Improvement of Facilities

The University also strives to upgrade its facilities including the learning resource centers in each college; the virtual library; and the Knowledge for Development Community, which is one of only 11 World-Bank funded library facilities in the country that also functions as a hub for consultation and dialogues; the teacher resource web portal, an internet-based knowledge resource management system for teachers and teacher education students; the different laboratories; the University Review Center which is accredited by the Commission on Higher Education; and the University Gymnasium and Cultural Center, touted as the best and the biggest in the region that can host local and international sports and socio-cultural events. USeP also has several conference rooms and audio-visual rooms like the CIC-AVR.

Academic laboratories like that of the School of Medicine (SoM) are also available to students. Various learning facilities are under construction like the 7-storey University Library; interiors, furniture, and fixtures of other academic buildings and laboratories are in process.

Faculty Development Programs

Around 600 faculty members, both resident and part-timers, of the University have developed expertise in their respective disciplines. Many of them have already presented their research outputs in international forums and had their papers published in international journals. Some even received citations from international organizations and have become recipients of highly-coveted scholarship grants like Fulbright, the Australian Leadership Awards, and the Philippines – Australia Human Resource and Organizational Development Facility scholarship programs.

Research, Development, and Extension programs

When it comes to research development and extension, USeP does not just produce research but transforms it into useful knowledge and technology for the benefit of the community. USeP engages in research that addresses the needs of the region and the country. The RDE agenda of the University covers: Agriculture, Aquatic, and Agro-Forestry; Business and Trade; Social Sciences and Education; Engineering and Technology; Environment and Natural Resources; Health and Wellness; and Peace and Security.

USeP also emphasizes the significance of dissemination and utilization of research findings and the interplay of research and extension, wherein research findings are used in extension activities.

It is significant to note that for more than a decade now, USeP has been the base agency of the Southern Mindanao Agriculture, Aquatic and Resources Research and Development Consortium (SMAARRDEC), a 23-member consortium of line agencies and research institutions in agriculture and agri-related research and development. The Affiliated Renewable Energy Center, which is the extension arm of the Philippine Department of Energy in the promotion and commercialization of renewable energy technologies in Southern Mindanao, is also at the University. USeP is also a member of the Transparency and Accountability Network, a group fighting corruption.

International linkages

Believing that international linkages offer an effective and efficient opportunity for faculty and student exchanges, collaborative research projects, and shared resources, among others, the University has established partnerships with The World Bank; Australian Centre for International Agricultural Research; various universities across the globe like Suan Dusit Rajabhat University in Thailand; Yogyakarta State University and Universitas Negeri Jakarta in Indonesia; Queensland University of Technology, The Charles Darwin University, and University of Newcastle, all in Australia; Mico University in Jamaica; Chandigarh University in India; International Balkan University in Republic of Macedonia; Tan Trao University in Vietnam; and many others. At present, USeP has 15 international partners and part of seven (7) international consortia.

University Core Values and Graduate Outcomes

Through the years, USeP has defined its core values as a learning organization, and these are the values of Unity, Stewardship, Excellence, and Professionalism. The University's Core Values evolved into CARES – Collaboration, Accountability, Resilience, Excellence, and being Service-Oriented. USeP has also identified the institutional graduate attributes that represent the characteristics that the University wants to instill and develop in its students during their stay in the institution. These attributes are leadership skills, critical and analytical thinking skills, service-oriented, lifelong learning, and professional competence.

ISO Certification

With the end goal of setting policies, processes, and procedures to meet client requirements and as an attestation of the administration’s commitment to a process of continual improvement, the Management Systems of the University have been assessed by AJA Registrars and registered against the requirements of ISO 9001:2008. The date of registration is June 1, 2017 with an expiry date on September 15, 2018. Per the audit visit conducted on September 6-7, 2018, the AJA Registrars Auditors (now SOCOTEC) recommended the University’s immediate certification of ISO 9001:2015. SOCOTEC recommended USeP for certification maintenance after the surveillance external audit in June 2023.

Establishing Prominence in the ASEAN

After almost 40 years of existence, this is what the University of Southeastern Philippines has become. Learning these developments in the life of USeP, one can certainly say that this University is a center of education, training, research, and innovation, which are sine qua nons to the development of the community and of society as a whole. This explains why, in 2012, the University received an award, from the City Government of Davao, that is only given to an organization that has greatly contributed to the good image and socio-economic growth of Davao City.

It is noteworthy that USeP has already made a name not just in the ASEAN, but in the entire Asia continent.

USeP Envisions to Become a Premier Research University in the ASEAN

The changing landscape of higher education compelled the University to re-evaluate its Strategic Plan for 2007-2021. After conducting a series of monitoring and assessment, the Catch-Up Plan 2018-2021 was crafted to serve as a reference for future initiatives of the University. With the new USeP Strategic Plan 2022-2027, USeP envisions to become a premier research university transforming communities in the ASEAN and beyond.

USeP exists to contribute to inclusive growth and sustainable development through continual innovation in proactive academic programs, impactful research for utilization, economically empowering community services, and sustainable resource management.

The University’s goals are:

Internationalized University programs and services.

Innovation and RDE-nurturing environment.

Proactive, globally competitive, and service-oriented graduates.

Transformed vulnerable and disadvantaged groups and communities.

Mobilized and optimized resources for sustainable development.

List of Presidents of the University of Southeastern Philippines (USeP)

Dr. Pedro O. San Vicente (OIC) (1979-1982)

Dr. Rufino O. Islao (1982-1987)

Dr. Eduardo AL. Araral (1987-1993)

Dr. Edmund B. Prantilla (1993-2001)

Dr. Julieta I. Ortiz (2003-2007)

Dr. Perfecto A. Alibin (2007-2015)

Dr. Lourdes C. Generalao (2015-2023)
Dr. Bonifacio G. Gabales, Jr. (2023-present)

Honoris Causa Recipients

In its efforts to recognize notable contributions to the community and to the academe, USeP has conferred Honoris Causa awards to the following people:

Rolando Andaya – Doctor of Education (1996)

Angel C. Alcala – Doctor of Philosophy in Research and Development Administration (2001)

Sensei Daisaku Ikeda – Doctor of Education (2007)

Rodolfo Del Rosario – Doctor of Humanities (2011)

Congressman Karlo Alexei B. Nograles – Doctor of Philosophy in Development Administration (2018)

Significant Research and Extension Programs

Hospital-bound Education Program

In partnership with the House of Hope in Southern Philippines Medical Center (SMPC), the USeP College of Education developed the Hospital-bound Education Program (HBEP) for Long Staying Patients (children with cancer) to spur awareness about children’s right to education.

Formed in 2013 and led by Program Leader, Dr. Edna Jalotjot, and Co-leader, Dr. Bonifacio G. Gabales, Jr., HBEP aims to establish a learning environment in the transient home while providing the children with formal schooling. With teacher-students facilitating the lessons, the HBEP brings classroom-setting experiences to the patients.

The program also intends to build a community of love, acceptance, and compassion for the young cancer patients.

Sagop Kinabuhi Program 2

The Sagip Kinabuhi Program 2 (SKP2) is an extension program launched in partnership with the Archdiocese of Davao, through the Archdiocesan Social Action Center (ASAC). The program, designed as a response to the government’s anti-drug campaign, aims to provide former drug dependents called the Voluntary Submission for Reformation Persons (VSRPs) with opportunities for growth and advancement through Family, Community, Health and Wellness Development, Spiritual and Moral Recovery, Skills Enhancement Trainings, and After Care/Case Management. SKP2 is also designed to contribute to the multi-sectoral efforts at reconciling and reunifying the VSRPs with their respective families and communities.

The City Government of Davao recognized USeP for the successful implementation of the SKP2 during the Pasidungog: Garbo sa Davao event on March 12, 2018 at the Davao Convention and Trade Center in Davao City.

Alalay sa Barangay Program

The Alalay sa Barangay Program (ABP), an extension program of the College of Business Administration, upskilled women entrepreneurs at Barangay Centro (San Juan) in Agdao, Davao City. The women-participants were given training on leadership, financial literacy, entrepreneurial skills, and business planning with sessions on gender and development.

The empowerment of Womenpreneurs resulted in the development of at least eight (8) home-based food business ventures and the crafting of eight (8) business plans.

Integrated Reading Enhancement Approach to Developing Readers

The Integrated Reading Enhancement Approach to Developing Readers (I-READR) allows College of Teacher Education and Technology (CTET) faculty extensionists to conduct a series of trainings on Mentoring the Mentors and Summer Big Brother/Sister projects for the Sagayen National High School teachers. The trainings include reading diagnosis, reading remediation, and research management of reading.

I-READR aims to equip teachers with knowledge and skills to help them enhance the reading skills of their students.

Innovation for the 21st Century Teaching-Learning

The Innovation for the 21st Century Teaching-Learning (INNOTeach) aims to capacitate a community of supervisors, school heads, and teachers of the Department of Education (DepEd) in the Division of Davao to enhance their practices in teaching and learning.

Eyesee-Enabled Program

The Eyesee-Enabled Program 2 (EEB2), through the Institute of Computing (now College of Information and Computing), implements an IT-enabled system program to improve the capability of service delivery in barangays in Davao City.

Programang Agrikultura gamit ang Teknolohiya aron Ayuda sa Bukid para Asenso ka

The Programang Agrikultura gamit ang Teknolohiya aron Ayuda sa Bukid para Asenso ka (PATABA) is a tool to help farmer-cooperators improve their productivity and livelihood using S&T-based integrated farming systems and establish marketing and livelihood support systems where they can trade their products and earn the fruits of their labor. Capacitating farmer-cooperators and other community groups will pave the way for the full recovery of the affected farmers from the destruction brought by Typhoon Pablo.

The Southern Mindanao Agriculture, Aquatic, and Resources Research and Development Consortium (SMAARRDEC), together with four state universities and colleges (SUCs) in the region, implemented a two and a half year rehabilitation program funded by the Department of Science and Technology- Philippine Council for Agriculture, Aquatic and Natural Resources Research and Development (DOST-PCAARRD) titled Assessment Capacity Building and Rehabilitation of Selected Pablo-stricken Communities in Davao Region, also known as Pablo 1.

PATABA, also known as Pablo 2, is a three-year extension service program funded by USeP that builds on and takes off from the earlier building and rehabilitation program of Pablo 1. The program, which commenced in May 2016, aims to upscale the S&T-based interventions implemented in the Pablo 1 program.

Agriculture Capability Advancement and Rehabilitation Extension Services

The Agriculture Capability Advancement and Rehabilitation Extension Services (AgriCARES), as an implementing arm of the USeP College of Agriculture and Related Sciences (CARS) extension activities, finds a venue to contribute something positive to the local scene, particularly in the covered service barangay.

AgriCARES was designed to develop and promote an effective and integrated, needs-based extension modality that will transform barangay residents into a self-reliant, empowered, and progressive community of people. It also aims to enhance the promotion, transfer, utilization, and commercialization of mature and appropriate technologies and information, and increase the level of awareness and capability of the barangay people on technology related to crops and animal production and management, forestry, and engineering innovations through training, seminars, and the production of IEC materials.

Barangay Unified Intervention for Leadership and Livelihood Training Development

Barangay Unified Intervention for Leadership and Livelihood Training Development (BUILD) is an extension program headed by the School (now College) of Applied Economics. It aims to assist leaders and staff in barangays to spearhead development plans, projects, and activities; provide IEC materials relevant to the problems of the community; conduct trainings, seminars, and workshops that will improve and/or develop the skills of barangay leaders and staff; and build a strong partnership with communities and implement different activities in synergy.

Amoma ug Giya Alang sa Kahamugaway

(AGAK)-Care and Guide for Stability is a community intervention for Indigenous People on saba/cardava banana and vegetable production in selected areas of the Davao Region Beneficiaries are 40 Ata farmers of Brgy. Mapula, Paquibato District Davao City (Project Site 1) and 40 Ata-Manobo farmers of Sitios Butay and Camaca, Palma Gil Talaingod Davao del Norte (Project Site 2) whose main source of income is saba/cardava production.

Braille Literacy Innovation for Educators (BRAVEd)

This extension project sought to introduce to teachers and professionals in special education and inclusive basic educational settings the modified Braille (Brailleance), an innovation for use in Braille literacy. Specifically, it purported to train SPED and receiving teachers in the Department of Education in the Division of Davao City in using the Brailleance, the modified Braille, to teach Braille reading and writing to learners with visual impairment.

Ilayag Ug Iwahig

A household Electrification Sustainability and Water System Installation in Sitio Igang, Talaingod, Davao del Norte, the program ILAYAG UG IWAHIG is aimed to provide household electrification sustainability and access to safe water in Sitio Igang, Talaingod, Davao del Norte. It is comprised of two projects namely: Project EnggKindle and Project WaterEngg. Both of these projects are implemented by the faculty members of the College of Engineering of USeP whose expertise in engineering like electrical, electronics, civil, mechanical, and sanitary are relevant and fit to carry out the task.

SciCAT AGRI-VIDA

A project on the Advancement and Generation of Reliable source of Income through Value added Innovations and continual Dissemination of Agri-Technologies towards sustainable Farm Tourism, it is a continuance of the visionary purpose of the DOST-PCAARRD-funded farm tourism program entitled “Science for the Convergence of Agriculture and Tourism” or SciCAT program. From the name AGRI-VIDA, the project seeks to hone a farm tourist site into a leading character in a community. The project serves as a prominent figure that embodies value-added innovations in agriculture and a strong entrepreneurial spirit towards sustainability in business and its environment.

Sustainable Services for Social Transformation and Indigenous Peoples’ Empowerment and Development (SUSSTAINED)

SUSSTAINED is a program initiated by the College of Development Management, which envisions helping the selected indigenous households of the area to establish a sustainable way of living; improve finances; attain good education; address health problems; and have access to potable and clean water sources. The program generally aims to provide interventions to the lndigenous Peoples along the Malagos watershed.

Operation Tulong Alay sa Pag-angat ng Buhay at Kaalaman ng mga Nangangailangang Kabataan at Ginabayang mga Guro (TABANG)

Operation TABANG is an extension program of the USeP - College of Teacher Education and Technology (CTET) which is an answer to the call of time as it provides opportunities for partnership with nongovernment organization stakeholders in the community such as Hope for Children Development Center (HCDC) and Tagum Alliance Gospel Church (TAGC). It provided capability-building activities to address the needs of the HCDC case workers and volunteers.

Bakawan Para Sa Kinabukasan: Mangrovetum Establishment, Capacity Building, and Development of IEC Materials in Brgy. Peñaplata, Poblacion, IGACoS

The CAS Extension Unit aims to harness the power of nature for the benefit of the community and the coastal ecosystem. One of these efforts is the innovative approach to mangrove biodiversity rehabilitation and restoration. The effort will demand commitment to research and adaptive management techniques, increase public understanding of the value of mangroves, and involve the community in planting mangrove trees and protecting the mangrove environment for future generations.

Helper-Educators Assemble to save Lives (HEAL) Philippines

The HEAL Philippines is a project designed to mitigate the increasing rate of Corona Virus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) infections among the frontliners across the Davao Region: Davao City, Davao del Norte, Davao del Sur, Davao Oriental, Davao Occidental, and Davao de Oro. The beneficiaries of this project were the frontliners; they were given Protective Face Shields (PFS), and both 3D-printed and laser-cut face shields.

Hi Tek na si IP: ICT Training Series to IP Youth Bakwits of Talaingod , Davao del Norte

This ICT training series is a project of the College of Information and Computing (CIC). It is designed to help, educate, and develop the technological skills of the IP youth in Barangay Sto. Nino Talaingod, Davao del Norte, thus, improving the target trainees’ technological abilities, particularly those who need to augment their knowledge and understanding of technology. This project will not only create jobs and income but also hone the skills acquired from the ICT training that they have undergone, to which they can express their talents.

Enhancing Community Knowledge in Conflict Resolution and Environmental Protection

Interfacing Development Interventions for Sustainability (IDIS), Inc. is a non-governmental organization focused on empowering communities and enhancing their capacities to ensure the protection, conservation, and sustainable management of Davao City watersheds. Due to the University's commitment to becoming “a premier research university transforming communities in the ASEAN and beyond,” the School of Law (SoL) partnered with IDIS to equip the Purok Disaster Action Team (PDAT) Members with the basic knowledge of conflict resolution and document other infractions and emerging issues in their community.

World Psoriasis Day 2022

The School of Medicine (SoM), in collaboration with the Psoriasis Foundation of the Philippines, Incorporated (PFPI); the Department of Dermatology of Southern Philippines Medical Center (SPMC); and the Department of Internal Medicine of Davao Regional Medical Center (DRMC), conducted a lay forum with esteemed speakers/experts from different fields of medicine, patient testimony, games, and medical mission including the updating of the PsorReg (psoriasis registry) of the patients. This activity is in line with the commemoration of “World Psoriasis Day 2022” last October 12 and 21, 2022 in USeP Obrero and Tagum campuses, respectively.

Centers for Research and Instructional Purposes

Socio-Economic Research and Data Analytics Center (SERDAC), the first in Mindanao, at USeP Obrero, Davao City

The SERDAC is designed to enhance the country’s capacity in socioeconomic research and tap the potential of the socioeconomic R&D sector in providing technical assistance to other research sectors (e.g., crops, livestock, forestry, and fishery).  It aims to: 1) establish a venue for excellence in socioeconomics R&D; 2) enhance socioeconomic researchers’ access to licensed software and relevant journals; 3) provide facilities equipped with appropriate research equipment; 4) provide training, seminars, and coaching on socioeconomic analysis; 5) provide socio-economic technical assistance to the other R&D sectors; 6) provide an assistance to PCAARRD on capacity building-related initiatives; and 7) provide a repository of socioeconomic and demographic data in Mindanao.

USeP-HRC Agri-Tech Center (UHAC) at USeP Obrero, Davao City

The UHAC serves as the Research and Development Center for Agricultural Products of both the University of Southeastern Philippines and the Hijo Resources Corporation. It is designed to: 1) conduct research and training as may be required by HRC and USeP; 2) develop proposals for external funding; 3) develop a strategic plan for the center to ensure the sustainability of its operations; 4) collaborate with other players in the agricultural products industry to leverage the industry’s competitive advantage in the global market; 6) coordinate with other agencies and industry players for technology transfer; and 7) establish partnerships to further enhance industry engagements.

Continuing Education Center (CEC) – newly accredited by the PRC as CPD provider for Teacher Education

The CEC was revived in the first quarter of 2017 by virtue of BOR Resolution No. 98 s. 2014 – 49 from the original Life-long Study Center under the Office of Extension Division, University of Southeastern Philippines.

It serves as the Continuing Professional Development (CPD) provider of the University which aims for the development of a strong and positive learning culture within and outside the University. CPD aims to improve learning outcomes both in school – based and sectoral communities through the conduct of relevant trainings from colleges serving professions and occupations with licensing, such as the College of Education, College of Engineering, and College of Agriculture and Related Sciences.

Technology Business Incubator (TBI)

The Technology Business Incubator (TBI) is a facility of the University where start-ups are hosted, and business development services are provided. It is named AGILab (Advancing Great Ideas Laboratory) where IP-based technologies are turned into marketable solutions or product through the creations of startups and spinoffs. In essence, it is an ecosystem where innovation is promoted and supported by commercialization. It will be providing a range of resources, services, and facilities needed during the development stage of the ideas. The goal of TBI is to produce firms that will leave the incubation program financially viable and able to sustain operations and compete in the market.

The TBI offers events and services like an incubation program, technopreneurship training, ideation workshops, boot camps, hackathons, pitching competitions, and investor pitches. The incubator is managed by a TBI Manager, a TBI Coordinator, an Event Coordinator, and a Multimedia Artist. The TBI is under the Knowledge and Technology Transfer Division through the Business Incubation Unit.

It has aligned in three major niches where the University is strong: Internet of Things (IoT), Industrial Technology, and Systems Applications Development. The beneficiaries and target clients are as follows: Start-up, Spin-offs, and MSMEs in the region, and USeP’s constituents, particularly the Advanced Studies Graduate/Alumni.

Agricultural and Fisheries Machinery Testing and Evaluation Center (AFMTC)

Through the collaboration of the Department of Agriculture (DA) - Bureau of Agricultural and Fisheries Engineering (BAFE), DA-Regional Field Office (RFO) XI, and the University of Southeastern Philippines (USeP), the Agricultural and Fisheries Machinery Testing and Evaluation Center (AFMTC) was established. The main purpose of establishing an AFMTC is to provide an accessible testing center to agricultural and fisheries machinery manufacturers, dealers, fabricators, and distributors in Mindanao.  Specifically, AFMTC aims to reduce incidental testing expenditures of the local manufacturer, address the delayed procurement of agricultural and fisheries machinery, and promote agricultural mechanization in support of the AFMech Law of 2013.

The testing center plans, coordinates, and provides testing and evaluation of agricultural machinery within Mindanao areas. However, the Center may also accept machinery test requests from other parts of the Philippines provided there is prior permission from AMTEC and DA.

The testing center, through its Director, shall coordinate with the AMTEC, DA-BAFE, DA RFO XI and other stakeholders in matters concerning test and evaluation.

DigiHub FabLab

The University entered into a Memorandum of Agreement with the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) and the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) for the establishment and management of the first Fabrication Laboratory (FabLab) on February 15, 2019 at the Industrial Electronics and Mechatronics (IEM) Training Center, USeP Obrero Campus.

The FabLab, considered the first in the Davao region, is equipped with the following: laser cutter, CNC cutter, embroidery machine with software, heat press for fabric, TIG welding set with grinder, large format printer, three-dimensional (3D) printer and laser scanner, UV printer, and small and big milling machines.

Pamulaan Center for Indigenous Peoples Education (PCIPE) at USeP Mintal, Davao City

The Pamulaan Center for Indigenous Peoples Education (PCIPE) is a consortium of five foundations and USeP.  These are the Assisi Development Foundation, Cartwheel Foundation, and Ilawan Center for Volunteer and Leadership with the support of Sen. Ramon Magsaysay, Jr. and the National Commission for Indigenous Peoples (NCIP).  The term “Pamulaan” which means seedbed, is used to stress the program’s commitment to the development of the IP communities in the context of their lives and cultures.  It is a college education program for the IPs in the Philippines.

Pamulaan aims to create culturally appropriate and relevant pathways for professional training for indigenous youth leaders.  Its original program offerings are Elementary Education, Agricultural Technology, and Anthropology. It also offers short-term courses for community leaders and development workers. As the years went by, the PCIPE also offered other degree programs that were deemed necessary in the IP communities.

As a program, the PCIPE is under the President of the University, the degree-granting institution. The Center is located at the USeP-Mintal campus, Mintal, Davao City.  The students enjoy full scholarships with facilities built for them inside the campus.

Teacher Training and Research Center (TTRC)

The Teacher Training and Research Center for Region XI formerly known as the Teacher Training Center for Mindanao (TTCM) was established in 1999 as a special project under the Office of the President, per BOR Res. 2827 S. 1999. It is part of the Davao Integrated Development Plan Project, a Master Planning Study of the Japan International Cooperating Agency (JICA).

It operates as an autonomous body and functions as a project matrix organization, drawing expertise from the different colleges of the University. At present, the College of Education (CEd) is the degree-granting college for courses offered by the TTRC. TTRC is managed as a special project of CEd after the Center of Excellence Award in Teacher Education was supported by CHED in 2010.

Since its conception, the TTRC has forged partnerships with the Division of Cotabato; Department of Education under the Third Elementary Education Project (TEEP) - a Philippine-World Bank Project; the Bureau of Elementary Education; the Department of Education through its various Divisions (Special Education, Staff Development, Curriculum Development); the Summer Institute for Linguistics (SIL) Philippines; the Resources for the Blind, Inc. (RBI); the Commission on Higher Education (CHED); the National Commission for Culture and the Arts (NCCA); the Basic Education Assistance for Mindanao (BEAM) - a Philippines-Australia Project; and the Perkins School for the Blind, Massachusetts, USA.

Innovation and Technology Support Office (ITSO) now Intellectual Property Management Unit (IPMU)

This Office protects IP-based technologies and other IPRs generated from the research and development activities of the University. ITSO is a franchise of the Intellectual Property Office of the Philippines (IPOPHL) that serves as a patent library providing access to information and IP services. IP services comprise patent search, freedom to operate, patent draft, patent prosecution, IP education, IP audit, IP management, and IP application assistance. Our clients include faculty-researchers, students, and staff of the University as well as external inventors in the Davao region. The Office is composed of a manager, a technical staff, two technical experts, and an admin staff.

To date, the Office has filed a total of 25 patent applications since 2016 with 22 patent-pending applications and 3 granted patents. Further, it has registered 14 Utility Models, 7 Industrial Designs, 4 Trademarks, and 63 Copyrights.

Also, the USeP-IPMU acts like an older brother to the Philippine Science High School (Southern Mindanao Campus) and Holy Cross of Davao College, by providing them with skills training and technical expert service. ITSO continues to fulfill its mission by providing affordable quality patent information and IP services to USeP, and the Davao region, supporting research, and development at the University in enabling increased innovation.

Institute of Languages and Creative Arts (ILCA)

The Institute of Languages and Creative Arts (ILCA) started as simply the Institute of Languages in 2005. It catered to the needs of clients who want to learn basic language skills for specific purposes such as but not limited to Basic English, Nihonggo, Korean, Filipino, Chinese, Bahasa, French, German, Arabic, and Spanish.

The emergence of the global knowledge economy has put a premium on learning throughout the world. Ideas and know-how as sources of economic growth and development, along with the application of new technologies, have important implications on how people learn and apply knowledge throughout their lives (World Bank Report 2003).

The gap between the current educational system and the needs of industry and business is a blatant reality that higher educational institutions are facing today because the academe has inadequately provided businesses and industries with competent human resources.

To bridge the gap, students, professionals, adult learners, businessmen, leaders, entrepreneurs, and other key players in the development of the country are looking for institutions that offer short-term courses in foreign languages and cultural studies to enhance their language proficiency and promote cultural awareness. Cognizant of an immediate need for a workforce proficient in foreign languages, a state university, and a partner of the Philippine government to ensure that its graduates are globally competitive, the University of Southeastern Philippines, through the Office of the President, has established the Institute of Languages and Culture to address the necessity for society as a whole to recognize the value of foreign languages and to create an atmosphere and an environment in which foreign language learning is seen as vitally-important in enhancing the Philippines’ human resource competitive advantage.

The Institute is now linked with the German   Embassy, and through its faculty, it is constantly liaising with the Goethe Institute for the former’s possible accreditation at some future time.

As of now, the University is receiving referrals coming from the Philippine Overseas Employment Administration (POEA), the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA), from downtown universities, and from friends of clients outside the country.

Also, the Institute of Languages and Creative Arts, as a production arm of the University since 2006, has been tasked to take care of the instructional materials development thrusts of the University. It works with selected and competent writers from the University’s academic units and liaises with the community to advocate and support its mandate.

In brief, the Institute of Languages and Creative Arts shall be one of the University’s icons manifesting the realization of its vision, that is, to grow a globally-competitive Filipino citizenry.

Mindanao Center for Policy Studies (MCPS) at USeP Obrero, Davao City

The MCPS is mandated to conduct policy studies at both the macro and the micro levels in the areas of education, manpower, and employment; industry, agriculture, fisheries, and forestry; environment and sustainable development; science and technology; organization and institutional development; cultural communities; and rural, urban, and regional development. It is also mandated to provide technical or advisory assistance to government and non-government organizations, upon request. The MCPS shall conduct seminars or related training programs in the area of development planning and policy analysis.

College Education Behind Bars (CEBB)

Education is a right that must be afforded to all people, regardless of their beliefs, ethnic race, background, or standing in society. USeP continues to explore different dimensions of disparity, particularly the circumstances that rob others of the chance to learn and flourish.

In partnership with the Social Entrepreneurship Technology and Business Institute (SETBI) and the Bureau of Jail Management and Penology (BJMP), USeP has successfully launched the College Education Behind Bars—a program that enables inmates of Davao City Jail in Ma-a to earn college degrees while serving their sentence. Despite being detainees, these people are regarded as members of the community who deserve to realize their full potential through education. This milestone, considered the first in the Philippines, offers the inmates programs in the fields of Agribusiness and Computer Technology.

Regular class started on August 11, 2017, with 70 students enrolled in two programs.

On October 27, 2017, the University President witnessed the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding between SETBI and the CHED at the Ma-a City Jail in Davao City for the potential expansion of the CEBB program nationwide.

(Updated as of 24 January 2024)

The University of Southeastern Philippines (USeP) is a community of scholars that values:

     Collaboration
     Accountability
     Resilience
     Excellence
     Service Oriented

The University of Southeastern Philippines in a Capsule

Mount Apo – Mount Apo is in Region XI. It is considered the tallest mountain in the Philippines and it is the cultural pride and heritage of the people of Southern Philippines

Philippine Monkey-Eating Eagle – A very rare species among Philippine Eagles. It is flying and mighty. It can only be found around the mountain ranges of Mount Apo. It is so rare that only a limited number to date exists. It is now considered the symbolic bird of southeastern Philippines.

Man – Being the prime mover of all endeavors specially in carrying out the objectives and purpose of the institution in developing the totality of man.

Five Rays – represents the five (5) main provinces of the region – the three (3) Davao provinces, Surigao Sur and South Cotabato where the core of the institution is to be developed and enhanced.

Courses of Endeavors – Instruction, Reserch and Extension are in circular formation toward man – being the prime mover of all endeavors

The Philippine Eagle stands for the ideals and aspirations of the University of Southeastern Philippines.

The Eagle represents the rarity of those who belong to the first State University in Region XI. It signifies far-reaching vision of the future and the eagle’s talon exemplifies the strength of the University of Southeastern Philippines.

The legendary height of Mt. Apo stands for the strong will of the University’s constituents to rise above the ordinary. Its breadth indicates USEP’s desire to reach across all the region’s concern.

VISION

Premier research university transforming communities in the ASEAN and beyond.

MISSION

USeP shall contribute to inclusive growth and sustainable development through continual innovation in proactive academic programs, impactful research for utilization, economically empowering community services, and sustainable resource management.

GOAL

Internationalized University programs and services.
Innovation and RDE-nurturing environment.
Proactive, globally competitive, and service-oriented graduates.
Mobilized and optimized resources for sustainable development.
Transformed vulnerable and disadvantaged groups and communities.

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