By: Delaila Irma T. Calindas, Project Technical Staff II

The Commission on Higher Education – Cordillera Administrative Region UniFAST Unit continues its visit to partner Higher Education Institutions (HEIs) in the Region to monitor their implementation of programs under RA 10931 or the Universal Access to Quality Tertiary Education Act. Among the HEIs visited were University of Baguio and AMA Computer College on March 8, King’s College of the Philippines on March 9, Saint Louis University and BSBT College, Inc. on March 10, Easter College Inc. and STI College – Baguio on March 14, Baguio Central University on March 15, and Cordillera Career Development College on March 21, 2023.

Dr. Bernadette C. Pal-ec, Education Supervisor II and UniFAST Focal Person, led the team of UniFAST Regional Coordinators to meet with the Heads, UniFAST Focal Person, Accountant, Registrar, and Student Services Officer of the said HEIs to discuss matters regarding the liquidation and billing process, disbursement of allowance, and adherence to the projects initiated by the Regional Office. Also included in the meeting were their Guidance Counselor to determine possible intervention programs or assistance to be given to student-grantees with failing grades, dropped subjects, and other academic issues. Other issues and concerns by the HEIs as to their implementation of UniFAST Programs, particularly on the Tertiary Education Subsidy Program (TES) and the Tulong Dunong Program (TDP-TES), were also brought out and addressed.

The monitoring activity is an annual undertaking of the Unit to ensure the smooth delivery of programs under the Universal Access to Quality Tertiary Education Act. This year’s monitoring activity is set to be completed by April 2023 wherein the Unit is geared up to achieve 100% visitation to HEIs implementing UniFAST programs in the Region.