Rizal Technological University (RTU) actively participated in the International Extension Congress (IEC) 2025 held from June 10 to 13, 2025, at the Provincial Convention Center in Siargao Island, Surigao del Norte. The event, co-organized by the Philippine Association of Extension Program Implementors, Inc. (PAEPI-National) and Surigao Del Norte State University, in partnership with North Eastern Mindanao State University, gathered extension professionals and institutions from across the country and abroad under the theme, “Embracing Science and Technology-Driven Extension Platforms for Sustainable and Inclusive Communities.”
RTU’s participation was led by the Extension and Community Services Office through the initiative of its director, Instr. Ricardo H. Momongan, Jr., together with Dr. Robelyn Bautista, Head of the Extension and Community Linkages Unit, and Instr. John Paul G. Sison, Head of the Community Program Development and Outreach Services Unit. Joining them were faculty extensionists from various colleges who presented innovative projects aimed at addressing pressing community needs through research-based and people-centered programs.
From the College of Arts and Sciences, Asst. Prof. Christian Paul Pagal and Asst. Prof. Irish Cristelle Destura presented their project, RTU and DSWD- INA Healing Center: Grief and Bereavement Intervention Program, which focuses on providing emotional and psychological support to individuals and communities experiencing loss. Meanwhile, Instr. John Benedick D. Alim and Instr. Ian Oliver C. Moscardo shared Project MAKE: Monitoring, Adapting, Knowledge Transfer, and Empowerment, a partnership initiative with the Pasig City CSO Academy that empowers civil society organizations through structured mentoring and capacity building.
Representing the Institute of Human Kinetics, Instr. Jeric P. Quibral and Instr. Rhoda M. Malabanan presented Sustaining Social Development Through Grassroots Sport: An Evaluation of the Gawad Kalinga Football/Futsal Program, which examines how sports can be used as a tool for social inclusion and youth empowerment in underprivileged communities.
IEC 2025 served as a platform for universities and extension professionals to discuss the role of science, technology, and innovation in promoting sustainable development. The congress also aimed to promote inclusive growth, build networks among stakeholders, and strengthen the visibility of extension initiatives that transform communities. RTU’s presence at the event reflects its ongoing commitment to community engagement, inclusive education, and the use of research-informed strategies to address societal challenges.
