Mandaluyong City, May 16, 2024—Rizal Technological University (RTU) marked a monumental stride forward with a groundbreaking ceremony for a highly anticipated 10-storey library building. The event unfolded with an aura of optimism as esteemed guests, government officials, and university administrators gathered to witness an important milestone.
The ceremony commenced with a welcome extended by the RTU Executive Committee, setting the tone for a significant day. Rev. Fr. Rodolfo “Toti” San Pedro, the venerable parish priest of San Felipe Neri Parish Church, bestowed his blessings upon the site, infusing the proceedings with spiritual grace and reverence.
A pivotal moment ensued as Hon. Neptali Gonzales, the distinguished representative of Mandaluyong’s Lone District, alongside his wife, Hon. Queenie Gonzales led the symbolic groundbreaking and laid the foundation for a future of learning and enlightenment. Joining them were luminaries of the academic and civic spheres, including City Vice Mayor Hon. Carmelita “Menchie” Abalos, RTU President Dr. Ma. Eugenia M. Yangco, and Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) Regional Engineer of First Metro, Engr. Aristotle Ramos, as well as key university figures such as Dr. Kristine Opulencia, Vice President for Academic and Student Affairs (VPASA), Dr. Magno Quendangan, Vice President for Research Innovation and Extension (VPRIES), Dr. Salvacion Pachejo, Vice President for Planning, Quality Assurance, and Strategic Initiative (VPPQASI), and Dr. Rodolfo Ducut, Vice President for Finance and Administration (VPFA).
The ceremony transcended mere symbolism with an immersive audio-visual presentation unveiling the blueprints and vision for the forthcoming state-of-the-art library. Vice Mayor Abalos seized the moment to deliver a dynamic address, reaffirming the city’s steadfast commitment to supporting RTU’s endeavors and nurturing a conducive environment for student success.
Dr. Ma. Eugenia M. Yangco, university president, expressed profound gratitude for the city government’s unwavering support, lauding the collaborative partnership’s transformative impact on RTU’s infrastructure and academic offerings. She also emphasized how the partnership has allowed RTU to offer facilities comparable to those of private universities. Her words resonated deeply, underscoring the vital role of city officials in propelling RTU towards excellence and distinction.
In a reflection, Congressman Neptali Gonzales revisited the genesis of his visionary quest to elevate RTU to university status, tracing back to the year 1995. His reminiscences of past challenges and triumphs illuminated the journey toward realizing a shared dream. With unwavering resolve, he articulated the significance of the new library as a beacon of knowledge and empowerment, poised to enrich the educational experience and shape the future trajectories of RTUians.
The groundbreaking ceremony stood as a testament to RTU’s unwavering commitment to academic excellence, innovation, and community advancement. The new 10-storey library building promises to be more than just a physical structure; it embodies the collective aspirations, dreams, and aspirations of an academic community poised to make a meaningful impact on society and beyond.