On July 22, 2024, Rizal Technological University (RTU) President Dr. Ma. Eugenia M. Yangco, and Instr. Ricardo H. Momongan, Jr., Director of the Extension and Community Services Office, participated in the Leadership Cascade Program Launch at Pamantasan ng Lungsod ng Pasig. This event marked a significant step towards enhancing democratic, effective, transparent, and responsive governance in the Philippines, spearheaded by the USAID “From the American People” initiative.
The event was graced by prominent figures, including Mr. Sergio M. Andal Jr., Chief of Party, USAID CHANGE Project; Hon. Victor Ma. Regis N. Sotto, Mayor of Pasig City; Hon. Rogelio Raymund I. Tiongson, Mayor of Himamaylan City; Director Maria Lourdes N. Agustin, Regional Director of DILG-NCR; Ms. Linda Mina, First Vice President of Rizal Commercial Banking Corporation (RCBC); and Dr. Glicerio Maningas, President of Pamantasan ng Lungsod ng Pasig.
The Leadership Cascade Program is part of the RTU Extension Program entitled Project MAKE (Mentoring and Knowledge Empowerment) of the Pasig City Civil-Society Organizations. This initiative, led by Dr. Omar Manlapas, along with Asst. Prof. Michael M. Mesinas, Instr. Ian Oliver C. Moscardo, and Instr. John Benedick D. Alim, in collaboration with the Pasig City CSO Academy, aims to foster meaningful collaboration among CSO leaders and CSO Desk officers.
The event commenced with a welcome address by Dr. Glicerio Maningas, followed by an overview of the CHANGE initiative and Leadership Cascade. Participants and their cities were recognized by Mr. Redempto Parafina, Component 3 Lead of the USAID CHANGE Project, alongside Mr. Paul Senogat, Program Director of the Pasig City CSO Academy.
Inspirational messages were delivered by Hon. Victor Ma. Regis N. Sotto, Hon. Rogelio Raymund I. Tiongson, and Director Maria Lourdes N. Agustin. Additionally, Dr. Ma. Eugenia M. Yangco and Ms. Linda Mina expressed their support for the program, highlighting the importance of collaborative efforts in achieving sustainable governance reforms.
The Leadership Cascade Program Launch signifies a pivotal moment in the ongoing efforts to empower civil society and local government leaders, promoting a more democratic and transparent governance landscape in the Philippines.