CONFLUENCE 2026: A meeting of service, governance, and direction

By Roque P. Bermudez, STRATCOMM, USTP System
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The University of Science and Technology of Southern Philippines (USTP) convened members of its Administrative Council for CONFLUENCE 2026: A Meeting of Service, Governance, and Direction at the Mallberry Suites Business Hotel in Cagayan de Oro City on February 20, 2026.

The event served as a platform to recognize the dedication, commitment, and service of Administrative Council members across the USTP System, while strengthening collaboration and camaraderie among university offices and units.

Dr. Ambrosio B. Cultura II, University System President, led the gathering and delivered his message, highlighting the university’s strategic priorities and initiatives, particularly in strengthening the agriculture sector and related services.

He emphasized the role of leadership in advancing the university’s mission.

“True leaders do not simply occupy office, but they lead with purpose. At this confluence, let us move forward as one strengthened tie, amidst our duty differences, but with our one mission to deliver service for USTP,” he said.

Dr. Cultura also discussed USTP’s strategic direction in advancing innovation and governance through major initiatives such as the Science and Technology Parks (S&T Parks), Agropolis, AGILA, and Industria.

A highlight of the event was honoring Administrative Council members for their service to the university and its stakeholders.
The honorees were:

1. Dr. Maria Cecilia L. Pangan, Vice President, Student Affairs and Services, USTP System
Term: October 10, 2023, to January 31, 2026

2. Atty. Erwin B. Bucio, Vice President for Administration and Legal Affairs, USTP System
Term: December 8, 2020, to February 19, 2026

3. Dr. Lory Liza D. Bulay-og, Vice President for Global Engagement and Quality Assurance, USTP System
Term: February 7, 2024, to February 19, 2026

4. Dr. Dennis T. Yamuta, Vice Chancellor for Finance and Administration, USTP Claveria
Term: January 3, 2022, to February 19, 2026

5. Engr. Erich P. Abad, Vice Chancellor for Student Affairs and Services, USTP CDO
Term: August 11, 2022, to January 31, 2026

6. Dr. Elmer C. Castillano, Dean, College of Science and Mathematics, USTP CDO
Term: February 1, 2024, to January 31, 2026

7. Dr. Israel A. Baguhin, Dean, College of Engineering and Architecture, USTP CDO
Term: February 7, 2024, to January 31, 2026

8. Dr. Charly G. Alcantara, Dean, College of Agriculture, USTP Claveria
Term: February 1, 2024, to January 31, 2026

9. Dr. Franch Maverick A. Lorilla, OIC Director of the Center for Entrepreneurship and Technology of the USTP System
Term: September 2, 2024, to January 11, 2026

10. Dr. Greg M. Cubio, Director, Research Center and Institutes, USTP System
Term: January 1, 2021, to January 31, 2026

11. Dr. Venessa A. Garcia, Director, Enterprise, USTP CDO
Term: February 1, 2023, to January 31, 2026

12. Dr. Ismael N. Talili, Director, Research, USTP CDO
Term: October 15, 2019, to January 31, 2026

13. Ms. Maria Doreen C. Rañada, Director, Student Affairs, USTP CDO
Term: September 1, 2024, to January 31, 2026

14. Ms. Ela Danielle T. Piol, Admission and Scholarship, USTP CDO
Term: January 3, 2023, to September 30, 2024

15. Ms. Judy Ann E. Ugay, Director, Human Resource Management, USTP CDO
Term: February 1, 2024, to January 31, 2026

16. Dr. Richmond A. Palma, Director, Sports, USTP Claveria
Term: February 1, 2023, to January 31, 2026

17. Dr. Renante D. Taylaran, Director, Research, USTP Claveria
Term: February 1, 2023, to January 31, 2026

18. Atty. Janelle B. Rojas, Director, Financial Management Services, USTP Claveria
Term: January 2, 2020, to January 31, 2026

19. Engr. Val Irvin F. Mabayo, Director, Planning, Monitoring, and Evaluation, USTP Claveria
Term: September 23, 2022, to January 31, 2026

20. Ms. Zenelyn S. Labay, Director, Career and Job Placement Services, USTP Claveria
Term: February 24, 2025, to October 16, 2025

CONFLUENCE 2026 reflects the university’s continuing commitment to collaborative leadership, responsive governance, and strategic direction, reinforcing USTP’s pursuit of innovation and excellence.

The event was spearheaded by the Office of the University and Board Secretary, in coordination with the Office of the University System President.