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

CHED-UNIFAST CAR reaffirmed its strong partnership with Higher Education Institution (HEI) implementers during the First Quarter FY 2025 UniFAST Meeting held on March 7, 2025, at Ecolodge, Magsaysay Avenue, Baguio City.

With the theme “Tuloy-tuloy ang libre at dekalidad na edukasyon sa Bagong Pilipinas,” the meeting served as a platform to update HEI partners on the latest guidelines and implementation status of the Tertiary Education Subsidy (TES) and the Tulong Dunong Program (TDP) under Republic Act 10931, also known as the Universal Access to Quality Tertiary Education Act (UAQTEA).

Ms. Ana Grace P. Salibad, Regional Coordinator of CHED-UniFAST CAR, presented the updated guidelines and implementation status of the Tulong Dunong Program, while Ms. Marife B. Calimodag, Regional Coordinator of CHED-UniFAST CAR, provided updates on the Tertiary Education Subsidy.

Ms. Jezeny O. Laoyan, Lead Regional Coordinator, outlined the region’s implementation targets for UniFAST programs including monitoring activities and sustaining regional initiatives such as the SEED Project, SEEDLING Project, Project MARITES, and Project SAGIP. She encouraged HEI representatives to continue their support for CHED-UniFAST CAR’s initiatives, aiming to once again achieve recognition as a Top Regional Performer.

For advocacy and promotions, Ms. Delaila Irma T. Calindas, Regional Coordinator, highlighted the signing of the Joint Information Dissemination Agreement, reaffirming the HEIs’ commitment to promoting UAQTEA programs. She underscored the significance of collaborative efforts in ensuring that students remain well-informed about available financial assistance programs.

The meeting was facilitated by Ms. Danielle G. Galong, Regional Coordinator of CHED-UniFAST CAR, ensuring productive discussions and active engagement among participants.

Through this quarterly meeting, CHED-UniFAST CAR continues to strengthen its implementation of UAQTEA programs, fostering deeper collaboration with HEI implementers to ensure that students in the Cordillera region benefit from accessible quality tertiary education.