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:

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 their academic community.
4. To provide non-formal education and undertake vigorous extension and research programs in food production, nutrition, health and sports development.
5. To offer scholarship 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 and the CARAGA. These are: the Davao City main campus in Obrero with an area of 6.5 hectares; the Mintal campus, Davao City that 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, Compostela Valley Province; and, the Bislig campus in Bislig City, Surigao del Sur with an area of 53.43 hectares.

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

Developments in the academic and administrative realms

The early years saw the birth of the College of Engineering and Technology in Obrero campus, the College of Forestry and Agriculture at Tagum and Mabini campuses, and College of Arts and Sciences in 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: USeP-Hinatuan Extension Program in Surigao del Sur; USeP-Baganga External Studies Program in Davao Oriental; USeP-Kapalong College of Agricultural Technology and Entrepreneurship and USeP-Pantukan External Studies Program. These external studies programs were eventually converted into local colleges.

In 1996, 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 Mindanao Center for Policy Studies (MCPS); Affiliated Non-Conventional Energy Center (ANEC) for Region XI; Office of Admission and Student Records (OASR); Medical Division; Institute of Urban Finance and Management; University Testing and Guidance Office (UGTO); Project Implementation Unit (PIU); Institute of Computing (IC) and 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, RDE (Research, Development and Extension), 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 plantation of coconuts, bananas, mangoes, and hybrid corn. Now, these lands have turned themselves to laboratory areas that provide hands-on training for students taking up Agriculture, Agricultural Engineering, and Forestry programs of USeP; at the same time, help acquire millions of pesos to the University’s coffer per annum.

 

Program accreditation and Level 4 status

Beginning 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. As of July 2019, 75.86% and 87.50% of the University’s graduate and undergraduate programs, respectively, are accredited.

In 2005, and made official in 2007 by a tripartite body of the Commission on Higher Education, Department of Budget and Management, and 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 are in 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.

In 2019, the results for the SUC Levelling 2016 Assessment was released by the Commission of 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 envisions to be a premier university in the ASEAN Region. By becoming one, the 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 towards 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 R,D,&E culture with competent human resource and responsive and   relevant researches that are adopted and utilized for development; and, KRA 3. Resource Management - Effective and efficient generation, allocation, and utilization of resource.

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 in 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 the Languages. Through the Institute of Languages that has developed into 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 in the University’s Mintal Campus in 2005. The Center has produced its first batch of graduates in 2010. 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.

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 trainings 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 top 201+ in 2011. In 2014, USeP still made it in the 301 plus 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 in 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, Philippine National Police, and the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency awarded USeP for its drug rehabilitation program (Sagop Kinabuhi Program 2, an Extension project).

Centers of Excellence and Development

In January 2016, the Commission on Higher Education recognized the University as Center of Excellence in Teacher Education; Center of Excellence for Agriculture; Center of Development for English program; Center of Development for Information Technology; Center of Development for Forestry. USeP is also a National University for Agriculture in Region XI; and 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 in upgrading 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 such as the Information and Communications Technology Division that was later on renamed as Knowledge Management Division; the Planning, Quality Assurance and Resource Management Office with three divisions; the Curriculum and Instruction Office; the Knowledge and Technology Transfer Division where convergence of instruction, research, and extension is ensured through its component offices – the Innovation and Technology Support Office, Technology Transfer Unit, and Incubation Unit.

Safeguarding of own innovations and technology as an output of research and development can now be done in the University through the USeP Innovation and Technology Support Office or ITSO, established in partnership with the Intellectual Property Office of the Philippines or IPOPHL and the Department of Science and Technology. The ITSO, 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 the development of a 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 for having the most number of patents filed in the said years.

Performance in licensure examinations

The strong faculty development of the University and its selective admission policy have enhanced the highly satisfactory performance in standardized and licensure exams. USeP has consistently performed well (having students who topped and a high percentage of passers) in the government standardized exams.

A study made 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.

Ladderized system of education

USeP is also the first institution in the region to implement the ladderized system of education that allows graduates of technician courses to proceed to the Engineering Program. This is along the thrusts of TESDA and the government in order to provide wider access to higher education.

The University also has an Equivalency Program that allows professional and government workers to earn degrees. The Expanded Tertiary Education Equivalency and Accreditation Program (ETEEAP) is an educational assessment scheme which 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 best opportunities for its students and graduates to land on jobs best suited 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 later part of 2017, provides a bridge that links the students to different industries in the world.

Improvement of facilities

The University also strives to upgrade its facilities that include the learning resource centers in each college; the virtual library; the Knowledge for Development Community, which is a 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 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.

Faculty development programs

The more than 600 faculty force of the University have developed expertise in their respective disciplines. Many of them have already presented their research outputs in international fora 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, Australian Leadership Awards and the Philippines – Australia Human Resource and Organisational Development Facility scholarship programs.

Research, development, and extension programs

When it comes to research development and extension, USeP does not just produce researches but transforms them into useful technology for the benefit of the community. USeP engages into researches that address the needs of the region and the country. In 2016, the Board approved the RDE agenda of the University, namely: Climate Change; Sustainable Agriculture; Policy Studies; Socio-Cultural Knowledge and Practices; Manufacturing and Production; and Emerging Trends. 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, USeP has been the base agency of 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 in the University. USeP is also a member of the Transparency and Accountability Network, a group fighting against 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.

University Core Values

Through the years, USeP has defined its core values as a learning organization, and these are the values of Unity, Stewardship, Excellence and Professionalism. It has also identified the institutional graduate attributes which represent the characteristics that the University wants to instill and develop to 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. Date of registration is June 1, 2017 with expiry date on September 15, 2018. Per audit visit conducted on September 6-7, 2018, the AJA Registrars Auditors recommended for the University’s immediate certification of ISO 9001:2015.

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 to the society as well. 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 for 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 reference for future initiatives of the University.

During the Catch-up planning process, the University identified the gaps between the Strategic Plan 2007-2021 and the current trends. This inspired the creation of an improved vision, which is to become a Premier Research University in the Region. To realize this, the University identified five Institutional Goals that contribute in making USeP a university that values teaching and learning while promoting entrepreneurial drive and innovative culture as well.

The first goal is to become a recognized ASEAN research university. Serving the southern region of the archipelago for almost four decades granted the University with an understanding of the realities, demands, and needs of our population. This prompted USeP to spearhead research activities that help promote the welfare of people. With the success of these initiatives, USeP is determined to create a ripple effect of its impact in nearby countries.

With its direction aimed towards globalization, USeP also seeks to have ASEAN competitive graduates and professionals – the second goal. USeP aims to have graduates equipped with skills relevant to the demands of industries today. With the change in the curriculum, all academic programs were aligned to meet ASEAN standards.

Fostering a culture of innovation is important, especially in an age greatly influenced by technology. The third goal is to create a vibrant research community. As an advocate of a strong research culture, USeP encourages faculty members to constantly engage in the generation of knowledge through research. To accomplish this, USeP strives to produce more than 30 publications and gain more than 150 citations in refereed journals, and submit more technologies for patenting.

The fourth goal is to provide proactive research-based economic empowering extension services. Guided by the objective to intensify innovation and technology transfer, USeP utilizes its research outputs in creating sustainable development. By the end of 2021, the desire to uplift the quality of life will be manifested through having more than 20 technologies transferred and research outputs adopted in different communities.

Finally, to thrive in an environment operating under government subsidy, the fifth goal is to generate capacity for innovative resource generation. Despite being a state university, USeP has devised ways to manage its resources by pursuing entrepreneurship programs for revenue generation.

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-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:

1. Rolando Andaya – Doctor of Education (1996)
2. Angel C. Alcala – Doctor of Philosophy in Research and Development Administration (2001)
3. Sensei Daisaku Ikeda – Doctor of Education (2007)
4. Rodolfo Del Rosario – Doctor of Humanities (2011)
5. Congressman Karlo Alexei B. Nograles – Doctor of Philosophy in Development Administration (2018)

Significant research and extension programs

1. 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 on children’s right to education.

Formed in 2013, HBEP, led by Program Leader, Dr. Edna Jalotjot, and Co-leader, Dr. Bonifacio G. Gabales, Jr., 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 real classroom-setting experiences to the patients.

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

2. 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.

3. Alalay sa Barangay Program

 

The Alalay sa Barangay Program (ABP), formerly called the Sagip Alalay sa Barangay, is an extension program of the USeP College of Governance and Business (now called the College of Business Administration).

Initially focusing on the health and sanitation of Barangay Centro, Agdao District residents, ABP has expanded its coverage to include developing the capacities of women in the barangay.

4. 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.

5. Innovation for the 21^st Century Teaching-Learning

The Innovation for the 21^st 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.

6. Eyesee-Enabled Program

 

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

7. 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 productivity and livelihood using S&T-based integrated farming systems and establish marketing and livelihood support system 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 2.5-year rehabilitation funded program funded by the Department of Science and Technology- Philippine Council for Agriculture, Aquatic and Natural Resources Research and Development (DOST-PCAARRD) entitled 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.

 

8. 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 in 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 matured 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, seminar, and production of IEC materials.

9. 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 of Applied Economics (SAEc). 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 with synergy.

 

 

Centers for Research and Instructional Purposes

 

1. 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 the 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 equipment of research; 4) provide training, seminars and coaching on socioeconomic analysis; 5) provide socioeconomic technical assistance to the other R&D sectors; 6) provide assistance to PCAARRD on capacity building-related initiatives; and 7) provide repository of socioeconomic and demographic data in Mindanao.

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

The UHAC serves as the Research and Development Center for Agricultural products of bothe the University of Southeastern Philippines and the Hijo Resources Corporation. It is designed to: 1) conduct research and training as maybe required by HRC and USeP; 2) develop proposals for external funding; 3) develop strategic plan for the center to ensure sustainability of its operations; 4) collaborate with other players in the agricultural products industry to leverage 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.

 

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

 

The CEC was revived 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.

 

1. 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 as AGILab (Advancing Great Ideas Laboratory) where IP-based technologies are turned into marketable solutions/product through 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 operation and compete in the market.

The TBI offers events and services like incubation program, technopreneurship training, ideation workshop, boot camps, hackathons, pitching competition and investor pitch. 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 are 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.

 

1. 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 to AFMech Law of 2013.

The testing center shall plan, coordinate and provide test 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.

 

1. FabLab/DigiHub

The University entered into a Memorandum of Agreement with the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) and 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.

7. 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.  They are the Assisi Development Foundation, Cartwheel Foundation and Ilawan Center for Volunteer and Leadership with the support of Sen.Ramon Magsaysay, Jr. and 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 life and culture.  It is a college education program for the IPs in the Philippines.

Pamulaan aims to create culturally appropriate and relevant pathways of 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 years went by, the PCIPE also offered other degree programs that are deemed necessary in the IP communities.

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

 

1. Teacher Training and Research Center (TTRC)

The Teacher Training and Research Center for Region XI formerly known as 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 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 special projects of CEd. after the Center of Excellence Award in Teacher Education was supported by CHED in 2010

Since its conception, the TTRC has forged partnership 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; 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.

1. Innovation and Technology Support Office (ITSO)

This Office protects the IP-based technologies and other IPR 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, and even 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 19 patent applications since 2016 plus 36 patent-pending being filed in 2014-2015. Further, it has registered 3 Utility Models, 5 Industrial Designs, 4 Trademarks, and 17 Copyrights. Also, the USeP-ITSO plays like an older brother to the Philippine Science High School (Southern Mindanao Campus) and Holy Cross of Davao College, by providing them 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, support research, and development of the University in enabling increased innovation.

1. 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 the need 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 (Worldbank Report 2003).

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

To bridge the gap, students, professionals, adult learners, businessmen, leaders, entrepreneurs, and other key players of 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 to promote cultural awareness. Aware of an immediate need for a work force 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.

11. 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.

 

12. Affiliated Renewable Energy Center (AREC) at USeP Obrero, Davao City

The Affiliated Renewable Energy Center (AREC), as an extension arm of the Department of Energy (DOE), is mandated to advocate the promotion, utilization and commercialization of renewable energy technologies and resource assessment for renewable energy system in Region XI. The Center undertakes the implementation of any project, such as, but not limited to, the Household Electrification Program (HEP), Barangay Electrification Program (BEP) and other renewable energy-related programs, projects and activities to be assigned by the DOE or the University. The Center’s advocacies on renewable energy technologies have created tremendous impact on awareness on the utilization of the renewable energy system particularly on the establishment of non-conventional energy system pilot models to be used for demonstrating the applicability of non-conventional energy system in satisfying a rural demand in the Region XI.

1. College Education Behind Bars (CEBB)

Education is a right which 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 which 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 which 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 Agricultural Economics 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 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 November 5, 2019)

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.