Manila, Philippines – On January 7, 2024, the Research Development and Innovation Office (RDIO) of Rizal Technological University (RTU) and University of the Philippines – Center for Integrative and Development Studies (UP-CIDS) convened a landmark exploratory meeting to establish groundbreaking research partnerships and strengthen institutional collaboration.

The strategic dialogue was initiated by University Research Fellow, Dr. Fortunato Dela Peña, former Secretary of the Department of Science and Technology (DOST), and led by Dr. Ryan Manuel D. Guido, Director of RTU-RDIO, and Dr. Rosalie Arcala Hall, Executive Director of UP-CIDS. Central to the discussions was the development framework for the newly established Sen. Neptali Gonzales Research Center for Development Studies, which aims to become a premier hub for policy research and academic excellence.

The meeting explored avenues for joint research projects, faculty exchanges, and knowledge sharing between our institutions to strengthen research capacity and contribute meaningfully to the university’s vision and national agenda.

The collaboration marks a significant step toward strengthening the research landscape in Philippine higher education and demonstrates both institutions’ commitment to fostering academic excellence and contributing to national development through evidence-based research. The meeting concluded with both parties agreeing to formalize the partnership through a memorandum of understanding, detailing specific programs and initiatives to be implemented in the coming academic year.