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

The Commission on Higher Education – Cordillera Administrative Region (CHED-CAR), through its UniFAST Unit, successfully conducted an orientation for the new batch of Tulong Dunong Program (TDP) grantees on December 3, 2024, at Kalinga State University in Tabuk City, Kalinga. The event was organized in partnership with the Governor’s Office of the Province of Kalinga, led by Hon. James Edduba, and the Office of Senator Christopher Lawrence “Bong” Go.

Dr. Joy Doctor, President of Kalinga State University (KSU), was represented by Dr. Marilou B. Adora, Vice President for Academics and Student Development, who warmly welcomed the participants to the event.

Subsequently, Dr. Demetrio P. Anduyan Jr., Director IV of CHED-CAR, graced the occasion with his inspirational message. In his speech, Dr. Anduyan emphasized the government’s unwavering commitment to making quality tertiary education accessible to deserving Filipino youth. Furthermore, he encouraged the grantees to wisely manage their stipends and remain focused on completing their degree programs.

In addition, Hon. James Edduba, represented by Atty. John Paul Bagiwan, extended his felicitations to the grantees during the event. He was accompanied by Mr. Danny Guyang. The Office of Senator Bong Go also graced the event, represented by Ms. Pia Cuyugan-Talavera, Political Affairs Officer and Scholarship Coordinator.

A total of 128 grantees attended the orientation and received their Notices of Award, officially confirming their inclusion in TDP. Additionally, the grantees, together with 108 beneficiaries of the Tertiary Education Subsidy (TES), received their stipends for the First Semester of the previous academic year (2023-2024) during the event.

Dr. Bernadette C. Pal-ec, Education Supervisor II and UniFAST Focal Person of CHED-CAR, led the orientation and presented an overview of the programs under Republic Act No. 10931, also known as the Universal Access to Quality Tertiary Education Act (UAQTEA). She also outlined the roles and responsibilities of the grantees, underscoring their active participation in the success of the program.

Mr. Jude Ambucay, Education Program Specialist II and Designated Cashier of CHED-CAR, led the distribution of stipends, assisted by Regional Coordinators Ms. Ana Grace Salibad and Ms. Jennylyn Pataras.

TDP, a key financial assistance initiative under UAQTEA, continues to be a cornerstone of CHED-UniFAST’s efforts, helping bridge financial gaps for students and empowering them to fulfill their academic goals.