Expanding the number of its partners for community development, Rizal Technological University (RTU) forged another partnership with the non-governmental organization Tekton Social Development Association, Inc. (TSDAI), adding it to the long list of partners in building and uplifting communities.

In a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) signing ceremony held on December 5, 2025, the University President, Dr. Ma. Eugenia M. Yangco, formally inked the partnership agreement with TSDAI, represented by its Chairman, Mr. Reynaldo Reyes. The partnership aims to strengthen the collaboration between the two institutions towards the shared goal of advancing community-centered initiatives. The signing was witnessed by RTU extensionists and a delegation from TSDAI, including Mr. Joelito Dayao, TSDAI President; Mrs. Gemma Dayao, Wife of TSDAI President; Mr. Noli Manuel, TSDAI Executive Director; and Mr. Allan Santiago, TSDAI Board of Trustees.

Apart from the MOA signing, the ceremony also served to introduce three of RTU’s key extension program foci: Intellectual Property and Technology Transfer, Mushroom Cultivation, and Urban Agriculture.

Asst. Prof. John Oliver Distor presented an overview of the university’s ongoing initiatives in knowledge and technology transfer from creators to end users. He also emphasized the role of intellectual property in safeguarding creative and innovative works, highlighting the importance of respecting IP rights and their contribution to fostering innovation.

Mr. Norberto Bautista followed with his presentation of the university’s urban agriculture research and technology. He discussed RTU’s strong efforts to promote urban agriculture for food security and environmental sustainability.

The presentation of RTU’s mushroom cultivation was delivered by Instr. Kriznald John Azucena, focusing on the livelihood and community enterprise opportunities arising from the program. Instr. Azucena highlighted the benefits, basic concepts, and potential impact of RTU’s mushroom cultivation expertise.

Towards the conclusion of the ceremony, both leaders expressed their anticipation of a fruitful collaboration between the institutions. This was followed by a campus tour, particularly focusing on the mushroom cultivation tunnel and urban agriculture site of RTU.

The new partnership forged between RTU and TSDAI is a step towards a more substantial, more unified effort to reach communities and address local needs and challenges through the expertise of Rizalianos. With the newly signed MOA, RTU once again positions itself as a leader in extension services, with more substantial support behind it.