Rizal Technological University (RTU) has strengthened its dedication to community development and social responsibility by signing a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) with the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) – Bahay Silungan Community Center (BSCC). This partnership officially launches Project PSYCHE (Psychological Support Yielding Community Healing and Empowerment), an extension program spearheaded by Assoc. Prof. Joan B. Marasigan, Dr. Rodrigo DP. Tomas, Assoc. Prof. Amorsolo F. Espiritu, Asst. Prof. Kathleen Ryan B. Bobadilla, Asst. Prof. Dynehgre P. Casasola, and Instr. Emerald A. Sabit, Jr. from RTU’s Psychology Department under the College of Arts and Sciences.
The signing ceremony was held on December 16, 2024 at 2:00 PM at the RTU Mandaluyong Main Campus. In her opening remarks, RTU President Dr. Ma. Eugenia M. Yangco underscored the university’s commitment to fostering impactful community partnerships. Instr. Ricardo H. Momongan, Jr., Director of the Extension and Community Services Office, followed with an overview of the MOA, detailing the project’s objectives and its anticipated positive impact.
Project PSYCHE aims to provide holistic healing and empowerment to the residents and employees of Bahay Silungan through targeted psychological support, skills development, and mental health interventions. RTU faculty extensionists will lead counseling sessions, workshops, and capacity-building programs designed to enhance well-being and resilience among participants.
The MOA signing brought together key representatives from RTU and DSWD-BSCC. Representing DSWD-BSCC were Mr. Bienvenido V. Barbosa, Assistant Regional Director for Operations, DSWD-NCR; Ms. Myrna C. Comota, Officer-in-Charge of the Bahay Silungan Community Center; and Ms. Regie Dianne S. Umali, Psychometrician.
The event 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). He emphasized the significance of the partnership and its potential to create lasting, meaningful change for Bahay Silungan’s residents and dedicated staff.
This collaboration highlights RTU’s mission to bridge academic expertise with community needs, ensuring that education and social services work hand in hand to uplift vulnerable sectors. The MOA signing marks a significant step toward creating sustainable, impactful programs that prioritize psychological well-being and community empowerment.
