Demonstrating the commitment of the University of Southeastern Philippines (USeP) to the welfare of its community across campuses, President Dr. Bonifacio G. Gabales, Jr., together with University officials, visited the Malabog Extension Campus (MEC) on August 29, 2025, at its new temporary site in Malabog Central Elementary School, Brgy. Malabog, Paquibato District, Davao City.
The visit coincided with the MEC General Student Orientation 2025, where Pres. Gabales personally engaged with students and faculty to hear their experiences in adjusting to the new campus setting. He also checked on their well-being and ensured that learning conditions were conducive.
Accompanied by Vice President for Academic Affairs Dr. Jeneifer C. Nueva and MEC Coordinator Mr. Rolen C. Bocog, the President inspected classrooms and other facilities to assess how students and teaching personnel are settling into the new environment.
MEC was previously housed at Paquibato National High School. However, a structural assessment conducted by the City Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office revealed hazards at the site. To prioritize the safety of students, faculty, and staff, the University relocated MEC to its present site while awaiting the completion of its permanent campus.
In his message during the orientation program held at the Brgy. Malabog Gym, Pres. Gabales warmly welcomed the students. He expressed his gratitude to the City Government of Davao, Brgy. Malabog, and the Department of Education for their support in ensuring the successful relocation of MEC. He also emphasized that the campus, which offers the Bachelor of Science in Entrepreneurship and Bachelor of Science in Agricultural Business programs, continues to expand its reach as more students show interest in pursuing their studies at MEC.
“We have already received requests from students who want to study here since other campuses are already full. This means we can serve more learners and make contributions to the development of this community, the City, and the Davao Region,” he said.
For the First Semester of Academic Year 2025–2026, MEC has recorded a total of 467 enrollees: 165 first-year, 106 second-year, 93 third-year, and 103 fourth-year students.
He also announced that MEC is now in its fourth year of operation, which means its first batch of students will graduate in June 2026. This will be the first-ever college graduation in the Paquibato area, which he said is a milestone that signifies greater opportunities for the community.
Addressing the first-year students, Pres. Gabales urged them to take pride in their identity as Iskolar ng Bayan and to nurture a culture of respect and care within their new learning environment. He reminded them that being part of the USeP community also means cultivating values that strengthen their character.
“Atong paningkamotan nga safe atoang community. Wala ta naga tolerate og harassment or bullying. Kinahanglan atoang panggaon ang atoang mga classmate, atoang mga kauban sa skwelahan, apil na ang atoang mga magtutudlo (Let us strive to keep our community safe. We do not tolerate harassment or bullying. We must show care and respect to our classmates, schoolmates, and even teachers),” he emphasized, underscoring the responsibility of every student to contribute to a campus where kindness and inclusivity thrive.
He highlighted that their professors and instructors have dedicated their time and expertise to the success of the MEC programs. Pres. Gabales pointed out that these educators made a conscious choice to serve in MEC, despite the challenges of being assigned to a far-flung area, because they believe in the vision of providing quality education to the students of Paquibato.
“Kung awayon nato ang atong teachers, kung dili nato sila suportahan, wala nay musaka diri kay mutudlo. Ipakita ninyo nga interesado mo, para mas ganahan sab mi mupadayon og deliver sa serbisyo diri (If we fight against our teachers, if we do not support them, no one will come here to teach. Show that you are interested, so that we will also be more motivated to continue delivering our services here),” he emphasized, urging the students to value the sacrifices and dedication of their mentors.
Furthermore, the President assured the students that USeP will continue to enrich their learning experience by providing growth opportunities, both inside the classroom and through co-curricular engagements. He also shared the excitement of one student who eagerly looks forward to the upcoming intramurals. Pres. Gabales said that there is now a possibility that MEC will hold its own campus-wide games, considering the availability of a new facility with an open ground where students can finally enjoy sports and other activities.
Mintal Campus Dean Dr. Aristeo C. Salapa and other University officials also joined the President in welcoming the students and orienting them about various services and policies of the University.
Meanwhile, in his message, Malabog Punong Barangay Hon. Jessielito C. Areja, who now also serves as a faculty member of MEC, expressed his commitment to continually support the campus. As both a community leader and now an educator, he emphasized the importance of sustaining partnerships between the University and the local government to ensure that the students receive quality education and a supportive environment.
