Rizal Technological University – Research, Development, and Innovation Office (RTU-RDIO) in collaboration with the Gender Studies and Development Office (GSDO) conducted the 23rd Special Research Forum via Zoom on September 19, 2024, with Dr. Magno M. Quendangan, Vice President for Research, Innovation and Extension Services (VPREIS) delivered the introductory statement to mark the start of the session and to set the tone for a dynamic scholarly discussion.

Subsequently, the message of support delivered by Assistant Prof. Nida V. Alcantara, OIC Director GSDO, and the program overview given by the RDIO Director, Dr. Ryan Manuel D. Guido, the presentation of the pool of evaluators by Inst. Cheryl Lyn C. Ayuste, RDIO Associate Director followed suit.

To ensure a seamless flow of the program, Instr. Willie Anthony D. Sapalaran, RDIO Scientific Services Staff, explained how the program is executed following Instructor Monica Elaijan R. Macaballug’s presentation of the evaluation criteria on which the assessment processes of the outputs are based and measured.

The Forum, themed “Interdisciplinary Innovations for Gender Responsive Solutions: A Global Imperative” showcased 40 research outputs from different colleges graced by four research experts from renowned institutions namely: Dr. Ira Valenzuela from De La Salle University-Manila, Dr. Glen Mangali from Marikina Polytechnic College, Dr. Adonis David and Dr. Brian Limson both from Philippine Normal University-Manila evaluated the papers and imparted important points to consider for enhancement.

The forum sessions were categorized into Science and Technology (S&T) and Non-Science and Technology (Non-S&T) where twenty one (21) S&T papers and nineteen (19) non-S&Ts underwent stringent assessments. 

Looking at the number of research outputs, it is noted that the science and technology subjects have increased compared with previously recorded ones – proof that technology and innovation are already becoming the faculty’s focus for collaborative scholarly studies.