Rizal Technological University’s (RTU) research group participated in a roundtable discussion on the potential of AI in powering communications with the theme, “Empowering Student Communicators Through AI: A Leadership Roundtable”, held on May 28, 2026, at Shangri-La The Fort, Manila.
Representing the university were Assoc. Prof. John Eric O. Estrellado, Director of the Research, Development, and Innovation Office (RDIO), and Asst. Prof. Nida V. Alcantara, RDIO Deputy Director, who joined academic leaders, researchers, communication practitioners, and higher education representatives in discussions on the growing role of artificial intelligence in education, communication, and research development.
The event featured discussions on responsible AI adoption across institutions, balancing innovation with security and trust, and the integration of AI-powered communication tools in higher education. Among the speakers were Prof. Shane Alexander Y. Laong of the University of Santo Tomas Educational Technology Center who shared insights through “A Grammarly Success Story,” and Dr. Jessie Barrot, Vice President for Research and Development at National University, who discussed advancing research excellence through AI-powered communication in higher education.
Experts from various institutions highlighted how artificial intelligence can enhance student communication, academic writing, and research productivity while maintaining ethical and responsible practices. The roundtable also emphasized the importance of preparing students and educators to navigate the evolving digital communication landscape through innovation-driven and ethically grounded approaches.
The RTU representatives actively engaged in the discussions and networking sessions, reinforcing the university’s commitment to research excellence, innovation, and transformative education. Their participation reflects RTU’s continuing efforts to explore emerging technologies that can strengthen academic research, institutional collaboration, and student development.
Through engagements such as the leadership roundtable, RTU continues to position itself as a forward-thinking institution dedicated to empowering researchers, educators, and students in the era of artificial intelligence

