On March 20, 2025, RTU and the Philippines-India Business Council (PIBC) visited RTU Mandaluyong Main Campus, led by Mr. Johnny Chotrani. Organized in coordination with Engr. Fortunato Dela Pena and Instr. Donato Z. Estocada, Director of the International Affairs and Linkages Office (IALO), the discussion centered on fostering collaboration between the Philippines and India, particularly in research and development, technology commercialization, and industry partnerships.
Mr. Chotrani expressed strong interest in building partnerships in key sectors such as pharmaceutical research, market research, and local textile development. He also highlighted the importance of software and application development, as well as the integration of on-the-job training programs, especially in the fields of research and technology. His enthusiasm for advancing technology commercialization underscored the opportunities for joint ventures that could benefit both countries.
Several notable figures, including Engr. Fortunato Dela Pena, former Secretary of the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) and now a consultant at Rizal Technological University (RTU), attended the meeting. He shared valuable insights on innovation and technology transfer, emphasizing the importance of industry-academia collaboration. Dr. Magno M. Quendangan, Vice President for Research, Innovation, and Extension Services, discussed opportunities for research collaboration between Philippine and Indian universities,
Dr. Ryan Manuel D. Guido, Director of the Research Development and Innovation Office (RDIO), explored ways to align academic research with industry needs. Representatives from IALO, Mr. Michael Ivan Mendiola and Instructor Kyle Nicole F. Alcantara, also contributed to the discussions, reinforcing the importance of international linkages in advancing research and business ties.
The meeting concluded positively, with all parties expressing a strong commitment to pursuing actionable plans and further engagements in the coming months. Mr. Chotrani and the PIBC members look forward to continued collaboration, seeing this as a vital step toward strengthening the Philippines-India business relationship and driving innovation, economic growth, and job creation.
