[𝐂𝐎𝐍𝐆𝐑𝐀𝐓𝐔𝐋𝐀𝐓𝐈𝐎𝐍𝐒] The University of Southeastern Philippines (USeP) College of Development Management (CDM) proudly honors Ms. Catherine Kate P. Oda, an alumna whose achievements continue to inspire both the academic community and indigenous advocates alike. Crowned 𝑯𝒊𝒚𝒂𝒔 𝒔𝒂 𝑷𝒂𝒏𝒂𝒈𝒉𝒊𝒖𝒔𝒂 𝟐𝟎𝟐𝟓 at the illustrious 𝑯𝒊𝒚𝒂𝒔 𝒔𝒂 𝑲𝒂𝒅𝒂𝒚𝒂𝒘𝒂𝒏 𝟐𝟎𝟐𝟓 𝑮𝒓𝒂𝒏𝒅 𝑪𝒐𝒓𝒐𝒏𝒂𝒕𝒊𝒐𝒏 𝑵𝒊𝒈𝒉𝒕 held at the USeP Gymnasium and Cultural Center on August 16, 2025, Ms. Oda embodies the vibrant spirit and unity of Mindanao’s rich cultural heritage.

A proud Bagobo-Tagabawa, Ms. Oda’s advocacy centers on preserving and uplifting her community’s traditions and voices. Her dedication extends beyond symbolic recognition; it is deeply woven into her academic work and personal values. In June 2025, she earned her degree Bachelor of Science in Development Anthropology, Cum Laude, which is a testament to her commitment to excel in academics while staying anchored to her roots.

Throughout her studies at CDM, Ms. Oda remained steadfast in her mission to support cultural preservation. Her culminating academic endeavor, her thesis, explored the journey of Bagobo-Tagabawa women in community governance. This work not only highlighted gender roles within indigenous leadership structures but also underscored the resilience and agency of women in sustaining their cultural identity and community development.

Ms. Oda’s crowning as Hiyas sa Panaghiusa celebrates more than personal achievement; it honors her role as a custodian of indigenous heritage and a young leader inspiring unity and progress. Her story reflects the harmony between academic excellence and cultural advocacy, proving that true leadership arises from a deep understanding and love for one’s heritage.

USeP CDM beams with pride as Ms. Catherine Kate P. Oda exemplifies the values it upholds—academic rigor, cultural stewardship, and community empowerment. As she ventures beyond USeP, she carries with her the aspirations of her community and college, a shining example of how education and cultural pride together forge meaningful change.

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Photos Courtesy of Hiyas sa Kadayawan