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

CHED-UniFAST CAR conducted an orientation for the latest batch of Tulong Dunong Program (TDP-TES) grantees from Mountain Province on February 27, 2025, at BIMAAK Hall, Harrison Road, Baguio City.

A total of 122 student-grantees, belonging to batches 20.1 and 9.1, attended the event. These students are residents of Mountain Province who are currently pursuing their studies in various higher education institutions in Baguio City.

Dr. Bernadette C. Pal-ec, Education Supervisor II and UniFAST Focal Person, opened the event with her welcome remarks. She expressed appreciation to the grantees for their participation and also acknowledged the parents in attendance for their dedication to supporting their children’s education.

Following this, Ms. Jurcell V. Dilla, one of the Regional Coordinators of CHED-UniFAST CAR, led the orientation, guiding the new grantees on their roles and responsibilities under the program. After the discussion, the distribution and accomplishment of Notices of Award were facilitated.

Also present were Ms. Jezeny O. Laoyan, Lead Regional Coordinator, along with Regional Coordinators Ms. Marife Calimodag and Ms. Danielle Galong.

The Tulong Dunong Program is a component of the Tertiary Education Subsidy (TES), one of the flagship programs under Republic Act No. 10931, also known as the Universal Access to Quality Tertiary Education Act (UAQTEA). This program provides financial assistance to deserving yet economically disadvantaged students, granting each beneficiary Php 7,500 per regular semester. The subsidy helps cover tuition and other education-related expenses, alleviating financial constraints and enabling students to focus on their academic pursuits.