Rizal Technological University (RTU) has reaffirmed its commitment to community development and social responsibility through a groundbreaking partnership with the Bureau of Jail Management and Penology (BJMP) – National Capital Region. This collaboration, which includes the Mandaluyong City Male and Female Dormitories, marks the official launch of RTU CHANGE Behind Bars: A Tertiary Education Program for Persons Deprived of Liberty (PDLs), an extension program spearheaded by Dr. Kristine Y. Opulencia, Vice President for Academic and Student Affairs, alongside Instr. Ricardo H. Momongan, Jr., Director of the Extension and Community Services Center, Instr. Divine Grace C. Pagal, Executive Assistant, OVPASA, Asst. Prof. Emmanuelle A. Santiago, Head, Counselling and Assessment Services Unit, Dr. Rodrigo DP. Tomas, Dean, Office of the Student and Alumni Affairs Services, Instr. Cyrille Anne A. Rafael, Department Head, BS Entrepreneurship, Ms. Ma Del Carmen Labong, Head, Student Records and Admission Office, and Dr. Lea S. Nisperos, Director, Institute of Computer Studies. This partnership aims to deliver accessible and transformative tertiary education to PDLs, equipping them with the knowledge, skills, and confidence necessary for reintegration into society.

The Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) signing ceremony was held last December 16, 2024 at the Penthouse, RTU Mandaluyong Main Campus. In her inspiring opening remarks, RTU President Dr. Ma. Eugenia M. Yangco emphasized the university’s unwavering dedication to advancing societal progress by providing inclusive education opportunities. Instr. Ricardo H. Momongan, Jr., Director of the Extension and Community Services Office, presented an overview of the MOA, detailing the objectives and anticipated impacts of the program.

The MOA signing was graced by esteemed RTU and BJMP officials. Representing BJMP were JCSUPT Clint Russel A. Tangeres, Regional Director of BJMP-NCR; JCINSP Joey B. Genecera, City Jail Warden of Mandaluyong City Jail-Male Dormitory; and JSINSP Anilyn R. Dolendo, Acting City Jail Warden of Mandaluyong City Jail-Female Dormitory.

The ceremony concluded with closing remarks from Instr. Victor Antonio M. Lim, Executive Assistant of the Office of the Vice President for Research, Innovation, and Extension Services (representing Dr. Magno M. Quendangan, VPRIES), who underscored the program’s far-reaching impact in fostering hope, empowerment, and meaningful change for PDLs. He highlighted how education serves as a powerful tool for rehabilitation and reintegration, paving the way for a brighter future.

This innovative partnership between RTU and BJMP is a testament to RTU’s mission to extend academic expertise to underserved communities. By leveraging education and skills development, RTU continues to transform lives and contribute to sustainable social progress. Through RTU CHANGE Behind Bars, both institutions are paving the way for a more inclusive, empowered, and hopeful society—one where education breaks barriers and creates pathways for second chances.