Rizal Technological University held the Huntahang Pangkomunidad for External Partners Coordination Meeting with the Polytechnic University of the Philippines on September 17, 2025, at the Intellectual Property Management Office. The meeting aimed to strengthen collaboration in community service, research, and capacity-building efforts.

The discussion focused on five key areas of cooperation which included collaborative community extension projects, a joint research initiative on extension impact studies, shared training, symposia and conferences, exchange of academic information and materials, and other forms of institutional cooperation. Both institutions expressed strong interest in co-developing extension programs that respond directly to the needs of marginalized communities, with emphasis on livelihood development, digital literacy, and health awareness. The proposed joint research initiative aims to assess the long-term impact of extension activities, using evidence-based methodologies to improve program design and delivery.

Representing PUP were Extension Management Office Director Dr. Rolan J. Malvar, Chief of the Extension Evaluation Monitoring Center Dr. Edcon B. Baccay, Associate Professor III and College Extension Coordinator Dr. Angelita S. Villaruel, and Chief of the Extension Support Center Raquel C. Abogado-Arevalo. Their presence underscored PUP’s commitment to advancing shared goals in public service and development work.

RTU was represented by Extension and Community Services Office Director Instructor Ricardo H. Momongan Jr., Deputy Director Instructor Abigail P. Mendoza, Head of Extension and Community Linkages Unit Dr. Robelyn B. Bautista, along with other ECSO personnel.

The meeting also addressed staffing concerns, implementation challenges, and sustainability efforts. RTU shared updates on its active extension programs and proposed solutions such as organizing beneficiaries into cooperatives, conducting community needs assessments, launching new collaborative projects with PUP, and enhancing coordination among research, extension, and intellectual property offices.

The meeting reinforced both institutions’ shared commitment to inclusive, service-oriented development through practical collaboration. These discussions not only highlighted operational realities but also paved the way for actionable strategies that aim to strengthen program delivery and long-term impact. By aligning efforts and sharing expertise, RTU and PUP reaffirmed their dedication to building resilient communities through purposeful, hands-on collaboration.