Strengthening Mission, Shaping the Future: NDMU Administrators Craft 2026–2031 Strategic Development Plan at the NDMU Tupi Farm and Retreat Center

Tupi, South Cotabato – June 19, 2026 — Administrators of Notre Dame of Marbel University (NDMU) convened at the NDMU Tupi Farm and Retreat Center for the Administrators Strategic Planning Workshop, a significant undertaking aimed at crafting the University's Five-Year Strategic and Development Plan (2026–2031).

Grounded in the University's Catholic and Marist identity, the activity began with an Opening Liturgy led by Sir Lestes Tugade, inviting participants to reflect on their shared mission and purpose as they undertook the strategic planning process.

In his opening message, Bro. Paterno S. Corpus, FMS, University President, warmly welcomed the participants and emphasized the importance of strategic planning in shaping the future of the institution. He underscored that a strategic plan allows the University community to ask critical questions about its present reality and future direction.

“A strategic plan allows us to ask where we are now and who we are. We should know our identity, and that identity should always be anchored on our mission and vision,” Bro. Corpus said.

He stressed that the University's plans and programs must remain responsive to the needs of students, the community, society, and the wider world. He reminded participants that education is a service to society and that NDMU must continuously improve itself to better fulfill its mission.

Bro. Corpus reaffirmed NDMU’s identity as a premier Catholic educational institution committed to inclusivity and quality education.

“We are a premier Catholic institution. We welcome everybody and we are inclusive. Our strategic plan must never lose sight of our primary purpose—providing Catholic quality education that forms responsible citizens and compassionate leaders.”

He further highlighted the Marist values of family spirit and servant leadership, emphasizing that NDMU’s mission extends beyond the campus and into society.

“Everybody shares the family spirit not only within the institution but also outside the society. We develop our students to be servant leaders, and we must ensure that our graduates become good leaders.”

The University President also encouraged participants to conduct an honest assessment of the institution through a SWOT analysis, identifying strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats while considering the changing directions of society.

He emphasized the need to examine external environments, embrace innovation and technological advancements, and seek sustainable income-generating opportunities to support academic programs, improve facilities, and strengthen community engagement while remaining faithful to the University's mission of Catholic education.

Concluding his message, Bro. Corpus reminded everyone of the spiritual foundation of their work.

“Whatever we do, it is the work of God. “Mary will always be with God,” he added, reflecting on the teachings and spirit of St. Marcellin Champagnat.

Following the opening program, Atty. Rene M. Barrion, Administrative Vice President and Planning and Development Officer, presented the NDMU Strategic and Development Plan 2026–2031, providing participants with an overview of the University's current direction, priorities, and development goals.

The workshop proper, facilitated by Dr. Jethro Arandallo, focused on the crafting of the Five-Year Strategic Action Plan. Participants were grouped into breakout sessions where respective units reviewed institutional priorities, formulated strategic goals, and developed action plans aligned with the University's vision and mission.

The day's activities included a health break, lunch, and continuation of workshop sessions in the afternoon.

During the closing session, Atty. Barrion provided instructions regarding the finalization of plans, revisions, target outcomes, submission deadlines, and approval processes. He expressed gratitude to all participants for their active involvement and valuable contributions toward the development of the University's five-year strategic roadmap.

The workshop concluded with a closing prayer led by the Campus Ministry, marking the end of a productive day dedicated to strengthening NDMU's commitment to excellence, service, and transformative Catholic education.