In an effort to further strengthen the operational capacity of Rizal Technological University’s (RTU) Food Services Office (FSO) and to support the establishment of a university-managed canteen as an Income-Generating Project (IGP), RTU FSO conducted a benchmarking activity with the University of the Philippines’ (UP) University Food Services on January 20, 2026, at UP Diliman, Quezon City.

The RTU delegation was led by Dr. Rhodora D. Lintot, FSO Director, and Assoc. Prof. Marie Joy Jorduela, Chief Administrative Officer for Business Resource Generation and Auxiliary Services (CAO-BRGAS). The group was warmly received by the UP University Food Services team, headed by Prof. April J. Perez.

The benchmarking activity yielded valuable insights into UP’s best practices for managing food operations in a university, particularly in food safety and sanitation standards, monitoring and supervision of food service units, inventory and procurement systems, and financial and contract management. Discussions also highlighted mechanisms to ensure compliance with quality standards, address operational challenges, and enhance overall service delivery in campus food facilities.

A guided tour of UP Diliman’s food service facilities enabled the RTU delegation to observe operational practices and institutional processes across the cafeteria, bakeshop, and catering services, providing practical insights into efficient and sustainable food service management. 

The benchmarking activity served as a significant learning opportunity for RTU as it prepares to establish its own university-managed canteen as part of its income-generating projects, in line with the University’s commitment to providing safe, affordable, and quality food services to the academic community.

BRGAS-FSO remains steadfast in pursuing continuous improvement through collaboration and benchmarking with leading institutions, reinforcing its mission to deliver excellent auxiliary services in support of RTU’s academic excellence.