Rizal Technological University (RTU) warmly welcomed delegates from Tawi-Tawi College of Technology and Oceanography (TCTO) of the Mindanao State University (MSU) System for a meaningful benchmarking activity centered on Gender and Development (GAD) on February 18, 2026.

The visiting delegation was led by Assoc. Prof. Almira Hadji and Ms. Radsma J. Julhiji, representing MSU-TCTO’s strong commitment to strengthening gender-responsive programs and policies in Mindanao. RTU’s key officials welcomed them: Dr. Magno M. Quendangan, Vice President for Research, Innovation, and Extension Services; Dr. Jason Romero, Vice Chancellor for Research, Innovation, and Extension Services; and Dir. Shereen Yanna B. Cadileña, Director of Gender Studies and Development Office, and GSDO-GAD Specialist; and Mr. Vince Mangilaya, Head of the Gender Studies and Development Unit.

The benchmarking activity featured more than just formal presentations; it served as a powerful platform for collaboration, conversation, and connection between two state universities from NCR and Mindanao, united by a shared vision of inclusive and transformative education.

RTU presented its Gender and Development best practices, highlighting its institutional journey from policy formulation and gender mainstreaming efforts to impactful programs that promote safe spaces, gender sensitivity, and inclusive participation across academic and administrative units. The discussion also covered innovative initiatives, research integration, extension services, and strategic future PAPs (Programs, Activities, and Projects) aligned with national GAD mandates.

The openness of dialogue truly enriched the initiative, allowing both institutions to exchange ideas and opinions without prejudice. Both parties raised sensible and highly relevant questions. Insights on the current state of GAD were shared. Challenging and triumphant experiences were also laid on the table with humility and sincerity, elevating the benchmarking activity into a learning space where best practices were contextualized for replication and enhancement.

The engagement reaffirmed that Gender and Development is not merely a compliance requirement for state universities or government agencies—it is a continuing journey of institutional transformation. For RTU and MSU-TCTO, GAD is about developing safe, equitable, responsive, and empowering universities and communities within and outside the campuses

As the session concluded, the two higher education institutions strengthened their partnership, renewing their shared commitment in advancing gender-responsive governance in higher education.

The initiative marked a significant milestone for both institutions. A meeting of the mind between two regions towards a shared advocacy, the benchmarking embodied the motto, “Malaya. Pantay. Inklusibo”.

Together, RTU and Tawi-Tawi College of Technology and Oceanography continue to champion a future where higher education leads the way in gender equality and inclusive development.