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

The Commission on Higher Education – Cordillera Administrative Region (CHED-CAR), through its UniFAST Unit, successfully convened representatives from various Higher Education Institutions (HEIs) in the region on October 22, 2024, at El Cielito Hotel, Baguio City. Themed “UniFAST @ 9: Continuous Commitment to Promoting Equitable Access to Quality Education in the Cordilleras,” the event served as a platform to review the status of programs under the Universal Access to Quality Tertiary Education Act (UAQTEA) and address pressing implementation concerns.

Dr. Ma. Geraldine F. Casipit, Chief Education Program Specialist of CHED-CAR, warmly welcomed the participants, which included Focal Persons from HEIs across the region. CHED-CAR Director IV, Dr. Demetrio P. Anduyan Jr., CESO III, delivered an inspiring message, highlighting the region’s excellence in implementing UAQTEA programs. He commended the Cordilleras for not only ensuring efficient fund disbursement and liquidation but also for providing comprehensive academic and professional development opportunities to student-grantees and partner institutions.

Ms. Jezeny O. Laoyan, Lead Regional Coordinator for UniFAST at CHED-CAR, followed with a comprehensive update on the progress of UAQTEA in the region, showcasing key accomplishments and milestones.

The highlight of the event was a presentation by Atty. Ryan L. Estevez, OIC-Executive Director of UniFAST, who served as the resource speaker. He provided updates on UAQTEA implementation and led an insightful lecture titled “Understanding Access to Quality and Transformative Education.” Atty. Estevez reoriented attendees on the latest UniFAST guidelines and emphasized the significant strides made in expanding access to quality tertiary education.

The session also featured an open forum, fostering dialogue and clarifications on program implementation. Additionally, the event facilitated the submission of compliance documents from HEIs to the Regional Office.

Dr. Bernadette C. Pal-ec, Education Supervisor II and UniFAST Focal Person for CHED-CAR, delivered the closing remarks, expressing heartfelt gratitude to the Focal Persons for their unwavering dedication and commitment to the successful implementation of UAQTEA in their respective institutions.

The event concluded on a positive note, reaffirming the shared commitment of CHED-CAR, UniFAST, and the region’s HEIs to uphold the principles of equitable and inclusive access to quality tertiary education. As the Cordilleras continue to excel in implementing UAQTEA programs, the collaborative efforts of all stakeholders will ensure that more students benefit from transformative educational opportunities, paving the way for a brighter and more empowered future in the region.