In a significant milestone, De La Salle University-Dasmariñas (DLSU-D) and Rizal Technological University (RTU) formally sealed a collaboration opportunity with the signing of a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA), providing a platform for collaboration in research, publication, and academic advancement in various fields such as space technology, natural products, biodiversity, environmental protection, data science, and research ethics.
The event held on June 26, 2025 was graced by key officials from both institutions. RTU was represented by University President Dr. Ma. Eugenia M. Yangco; VPRIES Dr. Magno M. Quendangan, RDIO Director, Dr. Ryan Manuel D. Guido; and RDIO Deputy Director, Instr. Cheryl Lyn C. Ayuste. For the key areas covered in the agreement, the presence of Dr. Rose Ann Bautista of the Research Ethics Committee, Ms. Margareth Custodio of the Additive Manufacturing Research Development Unit, and Instr. Jason Kalaw of the Center for Astronomy Research and Development also assisted in specifying the possible programs or projects that can still be explored in this collaboration. Furthermore, representing DLSU-D were the OIC University President and Provost, Dr. Cristina Salibay; and Deputy Director for Research, Dr. Johnny A. Ching.
Dr. Rocina, Head of DLSU-D’s University Research Office, stressed that the collaboration seeks to enhance collaborative research, faculty growth, and information exchange. He presented activities like joint academic resources, collaborative publications, ethics workshops, and capacity-building activities, along with combined thesis and dissertation panels. Dr. Salibay also reiterated DLSU-D’s firm dedication to this partnership, noting proposed activities such as faculty and student exchanges, special lectures at undergraduate and graduate levels, and collaborative research in areas crucial to sustainable development. Both institutions hope to use this partnership to spearhead societal challenges, drive innovation, and increase scientific capability. In response, Dr. Quendangan stated that the partnership is aimed at contributing meaningfully to society and social growth, while Dr. Yangco highlighted that the partnership is a critical move toward research advancement and community development, providing new avenues for faculty and students.
This strategic partnership is expected to raise both universities’ research reputations, create new funding opportunities, and produce influential solutions for sustainable community and the environment. It is an illustration of collaborative dedication to harness scientific and technological progress to develop positive social reform.
