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

In a bid to bring the Universal Access to Quality Tertiary Education Act (UAQTEA) closer to the community, CHED-UniFAST CAR has teamed up with the Municipal Government of Lamut, Ifugao, and Ifugao State University (IFSU) for the launch of “UAQTEA Time”—a dedicated radio segment on DPWH 105.3 Lamut FM.

Through this initiative, listeners in Lamut and neighboring areas will now have regular access to information on UAQTEA programs, including Free Higher Education, the Tertiary Education Subsidy, and the Tulong Dunong Program. Each segment will also feature inspiring stories of program beneficiaries, showcasing how UAQTEA has transformed lives across the province.

The partnership was formalized through a Memorandum of Agreement signed by Atty. Septon A. De La Cruz, Regional Director of CHED-UniFAST CAR; Atty. Mariano B. Buyagawan Jr., Municipal Mayor of Lamut; and Dr. Eva Marie Codamon-Dugyon, President of IFSU. Under the agreement, the Municipal Government of Lamut will allot a one-hour airtime every semester for CHED-UniFAST CAR to promote its programs and share beneficiary success stories.

The first airing of UAQTEA Time on the said radio station took place on July 28, 2025, with Ms. Jezeny O. Laoyan, Lead Regional Coordinator of CHED-UniFAST CAR, and Dr. Michele J. Dulay, IFSU’s Focal Person for UniFAST Concerns, as resource speakers. They discussed the goals of UAQTEA, clarified program guidelines, and encouraged students and families to maximize the opportunities provided under the law.

This marks the third partnership of CHED-UniFAST CAR for UAQTEA Time. The first was with Kalinga State University in partnership with KSU Online Radio, followed by Apayao State College with ASC Radio. The Regional Office continues to yearn for more partnerships across the provinces to further strengthen public awareness and engagement with UAQTEA programs.

Through UAQTEA Time, CHED-UniFAST CAR and its partners reaffirm their shared commitment to making quality tertiary education more accessible—one broadcast at a time.