Leaders from Rizal Technological University (RTU) participated in a three-day University Futures Masterclass held from November 19-21, 2025, at the 456 Hotel in Baguio City, demonstrating the institution’s commitment in advancing research, innovation, and strategic vision in higher education. The RTU delegation joined academic leaders from various universities to explore future-oriented approaches to university development and the integration of Sustainable Development Goals into the higher education landscape.

The masterclass opened with RTU represented at the highest level as Dr. Ma. Eugenia M. Yangco, SUC President II of Rizal Technological University, delivered a message during the opening program.  Dr. Yangco’s participation underscored RTU’s leadership role in shaping the future of Philippine higher education.

The RTU contingent then engaged with Dr. Reginald G. Ugaddan’s workshops on “Foresight and Futures Thinking” and “Scanning the Landscape and Navigating New Horizons,” while also benefiting from Dr. Aldrin A. Darilag’s special lecture on futures thinking and the localization of SDGs in the higher education landscape. These sessions provided RTU leaders with cutting-edge frameworks and methodologies to enhance institutional planning and development.

On the second day, RTU participants immersed themselves in intensive scenario development workshops led by Dr. Ma. Oliva Z. Domingo, focusing on “Blueprints of the Future through Scenario Development.” The RTU delegation actively participated in collaborative exercises, translating theoretical concepts into practical strategic frameworks applicable to the university. The hands-on workshops allowed RTU leaders to develop context-specific scenarios while benefiting from consultation hours that provided personalized guidance for their institutional planning initiatives. This intensive engagement reflected RTU’s proactive approach to embracing future thinking methodologies.

The RTU leadership team continued their active participation through group consultations and presentations, during which they showcased their outputs and strategic proposals developed during the masterclass. Under the guidance of Dr. Ruperto S. Sangalang’s Module 4, “Vision to Reality: Architecting the University Futures Project Proposal,” the RTU delegates refined their strategic plans into concrete project proposals they could implement upon returning to their institutions.

The successful completion of the masterclass marked a significant milestone for RTU’s leadership development. By investing in this comprehensive training, RTU has positioned itself to lead innovation and strategic transformation in Philippine higher education, equipped with new tools and perspectives to navigate the rapidly evolving academic landscape and ensure the university’s continued relevance in addressing contemporary and emerging challenges in the region.