The institutional partnership between Rizal Technological University (RTU) and the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) yielded positive results, as the Cash-for-Work (CFW) Program of the Kapit-Bisig Laban sa Kahirapan-Comprehensive and Integrated Delivery of Social Services (KALAHI-CIDSS) concluded with a lighthearted culminating activity and payout ceremony.

The Scholarship and Financial Assistance Unit (SFAU), under the headship of Instr. Rhoda Malabanan gathered the beneficiaries of the CFW Program, along with their immediate heads, on November 28, 2025, at the SNAGAH Penthouse, for a meaningful ceremony before the release of the compensation for RTU students and alumni who rendered services to various university offices under the program. Representatives from the DSWD, Local Government of Mandaluyong, and the Office of Senator Imee Marcos were also in attendance, in recognition of the contributions of their offices in the delivery of the CFW Program.

Dr. Rodrigo DP. Tomas, Dean of the Office of Student and Alumni Affairs Services, delivered a humorous yet inspiring opening speech, noting that he was initially doubtful whether the University could meet the program’s requirements. He shares that he is now delighted with how successful the program turned out and hopes that the DSWD will once again consider RTU for the 2026 implementation of KALAHI-CIDSS.

Representatives from the partner institutions also expressed their gratitude and utmost support for the program’s positive impact, emphasizing that, aside from the monetary benefits, it also provided an opportunity to gain work experience and learn from firsthand office work. Their messages of support echo one essential message—the CFW program is more than just a financial assistance program; it is a learning experience that symbolizes hope for those who need it.

The DSWD Team also shared the accomplishments of the CFW Program in RTU, where 591 individuals benefited and were deployed to 91 offices, units, or sections within the University. Over a 25-50-day period, these beneficiaries experienced the day-to-day work and processes of each office or unit, gaining practical knowledge and experience in handling official university tasks.

As the highest-ranking University official at the event, Dr. Kristine Y. Opulencia, Vice President for Academic and Student Affairs (VPASA), also shared her message, highlighting the University’s role in bridging government programs to Rizaliano students. She also received the Plaque of Appreciation from the DSWD, on behalf of the university.

Further enriching the event, select students and alumni shared their testimonies as CFW beneficiaries in RTU. Mr. Junver Pagaura, a CFW beneficiary designated at the Office of the VPASA, recounted how he used to question certain administrative decisions of the University and how those perceptions changed as he experienced being on the other side of the fence by being assigned to OVPASA. Mr. John David Maquiling and Ms. Angel Grace Cepeda also expressed their gratitude as beneficiaries of the program.

Testimonies from Immediate Heads were also heard. Instr. Carlie Momongan, from the Human Resource Management Office, shared that CFW beneficiaries supported the recruitment office and became valued members of the office. Instr. Randolf Montoya and Instr. Rancess Cuare echoed the same sentiments, saying the beneficiaries were a relieving support to the offices.

The event ultimately reached its conclusion with the payout of compensation for the KALAHI-CIDSS Beneficiaries.

RTU’s participation and compliance with the KALAHI-CIDSS CFW Program is training beyond education for the beneficiaries. Bringing the program closer to Rizalianos is a testament to the University’s importance of meaningful experiences, non-traditional learning, and student services. One thing is clear: Pandayang Rizalia’s partnerships with other government agencies bear positive results.