The closing program of the “A Picture of HOPPE” extension project, led by extensionists from Rizal Technological University (RTU), received an encouraging visit from Mandaluyong City Mayor Carmelita “Menchie” Abalos and 1st District Councilor Charisse Marie Abalos-Vargas.

The closing program, held at the Kaban ng Hiyas Bldg. of Mandaluyong City Hall, was the culmination of the 3-day review sessions for the Civil Service Examinations (CSE) led and provided by university extensionists from the College of Education (CEd) and College of Engineering (CEng) on July 29-31, 2025. This batch of the extension program equipped 180 participants with ample preparation for the upcoming August 10 exams.

Mayor Abalos and Councilor Abalos-Vargas graced the event to offer heartfelt and inspiring encouragement to the city personnel preparing to take the upcoming exams. Key university officials welcomed them, including Dr. Magno M. Quendangan, Vice President for Research, Innovation, and Extension Services (VPRIES) and one of the lead extensionists, and other Office Directors involved in the program.

Aimed to provide better opportunities for job-order and contractual personnel of the Mandaluyong City Local Government, A Picture of HOPPE program provided free tailored workshops, practice exams, motivational talks, and a final simulated exam as preparation for the CSE. These offerings are aligned with the program objectives of aiding the participants in obtaining the civil service career eligibility required by the government for permanent employment.

The “A Picture of HOPPE: Help and Opportunity in Pursuit for Permanent Employment” extension service program mirrors Pandayang Rizalia’s commitment to its partnership with the local government unit of Mandaluyong City, in which the university is situated. Providing equal and better opportunities for the personnel of Mandaluyong City LGU translates into an improvement of the city’s capacity for public service which benefits the immediate community of the city.

Through this extension program, RTU maintains its position as a leading university in the City of Mandaluyong, offering more than just innovative academic pursuits, but also compassionate and community development initiatives as well.