RTU and DICT Cybersecurity Bureau Explore Strategic Partnership to Advance Digital Security and Future-Ready Cybersecurity Education

Rizal Technological University (RTU) strengthens its commitment to building a secure and resilient digital future as its representatives meet with the Office of the Director of the Cybersecurity Bureau of the Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) to explore areas of collaboration in cybersecurity infrastructure, capacity building, and academic development.

The RTU delegation was composed of ITO Kyle Nicole F. Alcantara, Director of the Management Information Systems Office (MISO); Assoc. Prof. Donato Z. Estocada, Director of the International Affairs and Linkages Office (IALO), and Instr. Jennica Bacungan, MISO Staff, met with Engr. George Tardio, Director of the Cybersecurity Bureau of DICT, and his team will discuss potential initiatives that will advance cybersecurity readiness and strengthen the digital ecosystem of the University and its stakeholders.

The meeting highlighted the shared vision of RTU and DICT in promoting a safer, more resilient, and inclusive digital society through innovation, collaboration, and knowledge development.

Among the key areas identified for possible partnership are the enhancement of cybersecurity infrastructure, where RTU and DICT may collaborate in strengthening digital protection mechanisms, improving information security frameworks, and developing systems that support secure academic and administrative operations.

The discussion also explored the implementation of cybersecurity training programs designed to empower students, faculty members, researchers, and employees with essential knowledge and skills in cybersecurity, data protection, and responsible digital citizenship. These initiatives aim to cultivate a culture of cybersecurity awareness and prepare the RTU community for the evolving challenges of the digital age.

A significant highlight of the meeting was the discussion on RTU’s initiative to offer a Bachelor of Science in Cybersecurity program in partnership with DICT, creating an opportunity to develop highly skilled cybersecurity professionals who can contribute to national digital transformation and cybersecurity resilience.

Through this proposed academic collaboration, RTU envisions producing graduates equipped with technical expertise, ethical leadership, and global competencies needed to protect critical digital infrastructures and support the country’s growing technology sector.

The engagement further supports RTU’s commitment to its vision of becoming a globally connected and innovation-driven university that responds to emerging national and global challenges.

Through strategic partnerships with government agencies such as DICT, RTU continues to pursue its mission of transforming education, advancing technology, and building a sustainable and secure digital future.