Rizal Technological University (RTU) reaffirmed its dedication to collaborative research and innovation as it renewed its commitment to the Metro Manila Industry and Energy Research and Development Consortium (MMIERDC) during its General Assembly organized by the Department of Science and Technology – National Capital Region (DOST-NCR). Representing the university were Asst. Prof. John Eric O. Estrellado, Director of the Research, Development, and Innovation Office (RDIO), and Deputy Director Instr. Cheryl-lyn C. Ayuste.
Held on July 28-29, 2025 at the Bayview Park Hotel, Manila, carried the theme Strengthening Inter-institutional and Cross-sectoral Partnerships, the assembly gathered esteemed representatives from Higher Education Institutions (HEIs), including Ateneo de Manila University, De La Salle University (DLSU), University of Santo Tomas (UST), University of the Philippines (UP), and Quezon City University (QCU) to name a few. State Universities and Colleges (SUCs) from Metro Manila also participated, such as Philippine Normal University (PNU), Technological University of the Philippines (TUP), Marikina Polytechnic College (MPC), Eulogio “Amang” Rodriguez Institute of Science and Technology (EARIST), Philippine State College of Aeronautics (PhilSCA), and Polytechnic University of the Philippines (PUP).
The assembly was marked by the presence of notable figures from the DOST system and its attached agencies. Engr. Romelen T. Tresvalles, DOST-NCR Regional Director and Vice Chairperson of the MMIERDC Governing Council, underscored the role of the consortium in aligning academic research with regional development goals. Dr. Nuna E. Almanzor, Chairperson of the MMIERDC Governing Council, expressed strong support for continuing partnerships across education, government, and industry sectors.
Adding further depth to the discussions was Ms. Glenda T. Dorcas, Supervising Science Research Specialist from the Human Resources and Institution Development Division (HRIDD) of DOST-PCIEERD, who highlighted the agency’s efforts in empowering institutions through capability-building and policy support. Dr. Enrico C. Paringit, Executive Director of DOST-PCIEERD, addressed the consortium members with an appeal to focus on mission-oriented and socially impactful research.
Another key highlight of the event was the formal introduction of Dr. Jessa Frida T. Festijo, Director of the Research and Innovation Center of Lyceum of the Philippines University (LPU), as the new Consortium Director of MMIERDC. Her leadership signals a renewed vigor in steering the consortium toward wider collaborative engagements and innovation-driven outcomes.
RTU’s participation in the assembly, through its RDIO leadership, signifies the university’s continuing commitment to advancing its research agenda through strategic partnerships and knowledge-sharing. As MMIERDC moves forward under its new leadership, RTU stands firm in its pursuit of research excellence and public service in line with national development priorities.
