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

In its continuing effort to strengthen advocacy and promotion of student financial assistance programs, CHED-UniFAST CAR has forged a new partnership with the Local Government of Lagawe, Ifugao (LGU-Lagawe) and Ifugao State University (IFSU) for the airing of “UAQTEA Time” on Radyo Kiphodan, the community radio station operated by LGU-Lagawe.

Through this partnership, listeners in Lagawe and nearby communities will have regular access to essential information on the programs under the Universal Access to Quality Tertiary Education Act (UAQTEA), namely Free Higher Education, the Tertiary Education Subsidy (TES), and the Tulong Dunong Program (TDP). The radio segment will likewise feature inspiring stories of student-beneficiaries, reflecting the transformative impact of these initiatives on students and their families across the province.

The collaboration was formalized in August through a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) signed by Atty. Septon A. De La Cruz, then Regional Director of CHED-UniFAST CAR; Hon. Leslie Roy H. Nayahangan, Municipal Mayor of Lagawe; and Dr. Eva Marie Codamon-Dugyon, President of Ifugao State University (IFSU). Under the MOA, the Municipal Government of Lagawe committed to allot a one-hour airtime every semester dedicated to promoting UAQTEA programs and sharing success stories of beneficiaries.

“UAQTEA Time” is an advocacy initiative of CHED-UniFAST CAR which seeks partnership with local radio stations across the region. It aims to widen public awareness and deepen understanding of the government’s commitment to universal access to quality tertiary education.

The first episode of “UAQTEA Time” on Radyo Kiphodan is scheduled to air in October. This partnership marks the fourth active MOA signed by CHED-UniFAST CAR for the program, further expanding its reach in the Cordillera.