A groundbreaking step toward digital empowerment was marked in Barangay VI, San Jose, Paluan, Occidental Mindoro, as Rizal Technological University (RTU) launched the Reaching Training Unlocking Abilities for Community Empowerment (RTU ACE) Phase I initiative on February 24, 2025. This led to the successful establishment of the Paluan Computer Training Center and e-Library (PCTCeL), a vital resource designed to equip students, teachers, and community members with essential digital skills and access to modern educational technology.
A dedicated team worked tirelessly to set up the PCTCeL, ensuring a seamless transition from planning to execution. Several individuals played key roles in the realization of this project, including Instr. Abigail P. Mendoza, Deputy Director of the Extension and Community Services Office (ECSO), who oversaw and monitored the project, material delivery, and handled documentation; Admin Aide Gloria D. Dulay, who facilitated logistical support for manpower and material transport; Engr. Reimon R. Manera, staff from the Project Management Office (PMO), who supervised, tested, and inspected the installation process; Mr. Floyd de Vela, Technical Staff of the Management Information System Office (MISO), who provided the materials, equipment, and technical support, along with Mr. Bernie Labarda and Mr. Erick Cerda; and Mr. Israel Du, from the Transportation Services Office (TSO), who contributed to material delivery and manpower coordination.
To guarantee the center’s readiness, an inspection team conducted a site assessment prior to the inauguration. The team included key RTU officials including Engr. Nino Augusto S. Curpos, Project Management Office Director; Engr. Armando P. Matias, Cooperative Education Office Director; Dr. Corleto R. Bravo, Dean of the College of Engineering; Dr. Jaevier A. Villanueva, Management Information System Office Director; and Engr. Darius Trance, Network Staff from Management Information System Office. Further reinforcement and final preparations took place with the arrival of Dr. Ma. Eugenia M. Yangco, RTU University President, alongside Dr. Odilon Yangco, faculty member of the Mechatronics Department; Instr. Ricardo H. Momongan, Jr., ECSO Director; and Mr. Ralph Vinarao, Head of the Transportation Services Office.
The Paluan Computer Training Center and e-Library was formally inaugurated in a ceremony attended by key stakeholders. The event was graced by local government representatives, including Hon. Michael D. Diaz, Mayor of Paluan; Hon. Jasmin T. Fernandez, Vice Mayor of Paluan; Hon. Leody F. Tarriela, Representative of the Congressional District of Kanlurang Mindoro, represented by Atty. Mikaela Tria; and Dr. Rogelio T. Viana, Tagapag-ugnay ng Ekstensyon at Programang Pangkomunidad.
RTU was represented by Dr. Ma. Eugenia M. Yangco, University President, along with university officials and technical staff who played crucial roles in bringing the project to fruition. Following the inauguration, a specialized training session on Open Educational Resources (OERs) was conducted at 1:30 PM for teachers and staff assigned to PCTCeL. The session, led by Instr. Ricardo H. Momongan, Jr. aimed to equip educators with the necessary knowledge and skills to maximize digital learning tools and effectively utilize the newly established facility.
