DOrSU marks fifth year as full-fledged university, maps direction under GROWTH framework
Davao Oriental State University celebrated its 5th Founding Anniversary on May 27–28, 2026, culminating in a program that showcased the University’s major accomplishments over the past year and its direction under the DOrSU GROWTH 2029 framework.
Bearing the theme “GROWTH in Action: Driving Regenerative Futures through Resilience, Innovation, and Service,” the celebration highlighted DOrSU’s continuing efforts to advance its regenerative futures vision through solution-driven education, research and innovation, strengthened quality assurance, digital transformation, and other strategic priorities.
The anniversary program was headlined by the State of the University Address of University President Dr. Roy G. Ponce, who apprised the DOrSU community of the University’s collective accomplishments and the priorities that will guide its next phase of development.
Among the major highlights was the increase in the University’s budget under the General Appropriations Act, which reached a historic high of ₱669.728 million in 2026. The President also cited completed infrastructure projects, including works at the University Research Complex, Student Center, BSBA Computer Laboratory, Campus Radio Station, classroom facilities, and other academic and support facilities across campuses.
Research, innovation, and community engagement remained central to the report, with emphasis on initiatives that connect academic work with real-world problems. These include continuing investments in research facilities, laboratories, environmental initiatives, and the University’s Artificial Coral Reef Production Facility.
Dr. Ponce further urged the DOrSU community to build on these gains through the GROWTH framework, which organizes the University’s direction around six strategic areas: Global Recognition, Research Excellence, Optimized Accreditation, World-Class Digital Transformation, Thriving Curriculum, and Holistic Development.
Complementing the President’s address, Guest of Honor and Speaker Ms. Jessica M. Lumapas, Principal of Mati National Comprehensive High School and an alumna of the University, shared how DOrSU helped shape both her personal life and professional path, recalling a long academic journey that formed the patience, discipline, and perseverance that later guided her work as an educator.
She reflected on the lasting impact of DOrSU on its students and alumni, emphasizing that the lessons, values, and opportunities gained within the University continue to shape their lives long after graduation. As she shared, “I am proof that this university keeps its doors open even when the journey is long. And I am proof that what you build here follows you into your career, into your home, and into the next generation.”
Ms. Lumapas also described DOrSU’s growth as one that continues to give back to the community. She underscored the University’s vision of excellence, innovation, and inclusion as a mission that must serve not only a few, but all those willing to work, dream, and contribute.
The program also featured messages from the institution’s founders, who placed the celebration within the broader story of DOrSU’s beginnings.
Hon. Joel Mayo Z. Almario, City Mayor of Mati and founder of DOrSU, spoke on the responsibility that comes with asking, leading, and serving. He emphasized gratitude, obligation to the nation, and volunteerism, reminding the academic community of its influence in shaping people, institutions, and communities.
Hon. Thelma Z. Almario, founder of Mati Community College and Davao Oriental State College of Science and Technology, looked back on the institution’s early years—from MCC to DOSCST, and eventually to DOrSU. She acknowledged the individuals whose dedication and leadership helped build the foundations of the University in its formative years.
As DOrSU marked its fifth founding anniversary, the University carries forward the legacy of its founders by strengthening access to quality education, advancing impactful research and innovation, and deepening community extension in line with its mandate as the only state-funded university in Davao Oriental.
