By: Shiela Mae Andres, OJT

In its continuous effort to promote transparency and awareness of government financial aid programs, CHED-UNIFAST CAR conducted an orientation for the beneficiaries of the Tertiary Education Subsidy (TES) and Tulong Dunong Program (TDP) at the International School of Asia and the Pacific – Kalinga (ISAP-Kalinga). The event gathered a total of 93 TES beneficiaries and 75 TDP grantees, all eager to learn more about their privileges and responsibilities under the programs.

Mr. Levelier Arellano, Director for Academic Affairs of ISAP-Kalinga, welcomed the participants with an inspiring message, highlighting how the TES and TDP programs have helped ease the financial burdens of many students, allowing them to focus more on their studies and future goals.

Engr. Genevieve Banatao, the UniFAST Focal Person of ISAP-Kalinga, introduced the resource persons and shared motivational stories and testimonials from past grantees. These success stories served as a powerful reminder of how government support can transform lives through education.

Ms. Marife B. Calimodag, one of the Regional Coordinators of CHED-UniFAST CAR, provided a comprehensive orientation on the TES program — one of the flagship initiatives under Republic Act No. 10931 or the Universal Access to Quality Tertiary Education Act (UAQTEA). She discussed the program’s objectives, eligibility criteria, and application processes, emphasizing the importance of compliance and accountability in sustaining the benefits received.

Meanwhile, Ms. Jurcell V. Dilla, also a Regional Coordinator, led the session on the TDP, explaining its guidelines and the roles and responsibilities that the grantees must adhere to continue enjoying the program.

Also present were Ms. Jezeny O. Laoyan, Lead Regional Coordinator of CHED-UniFAST CAR, and Ms. Delaila Irma T. Calindas, also a Regional Coordinator, who assisted in the facilitation of the session and engaged with students during the open forum.

The successful orientation served as a vital platform for TES and TDP beneficiaries to gain a deeper understanding of the programs’ mechanics and their roles as grantees. It also reinforced CHED-UniFAST CAR’s commitment to ensuring that students are well-informed and well-equipped to maximize these educational opportunities. With increased awareness and clarity, the students of ISAP-Kalinga are now set on a more promising path—one that empowers them to pursue academic excellence and achieve their aspirations with the continued support of the government’s education assistance programs.