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

The Commission on Higher Education – Cordillera Administrative Region (CHED-CAR) continued its advocacy for accessible higher education by participating in the Career Orientation Program of Tuba Central National High School on February 26, 2026. With the theme “Navigating Your Future: Discovering Career Pathways,” the event engaged 161 learners from Grades 10 and 11, along with faculty and staff, in discussions on academic pathways, scholarship opportunities, and career planning.

Representatives from CHED-CAR provided learners with comprehensive information on the various scholarships and grants-in-aid programs available for incoming college students. Dr. Bernadette C. Pal-ec, Education Supervisor II and Head of the UniFAST Unit, presented an overview of programs under the Universal Access to Quality Tertiary Education Act (UAQTEA), highlighting the government’s commitment to ensuring equitable access to tertiary education. Mr. Ken Shamrock Bulos, Project Support Staff under the StuFAPs Unit, detailed the CHED Merit-Based Scholarship Program (CMSP), Academic Competitiveness Enhancement Fund (ACEF), and the Istatistikolar Program, providing students practical guidance on eligibility, application procedures, and benefits.

The orientation was further enriched by the participation of Higher Education Institutions (HEIs) from the region. Representatives from Cordillera Career Development College (CCDC), King’s College of the Philippines (KCP), AMA Computer Learning Center – Baguio (AMA Baguio), STI College, University of the Cordilleras (UC), BSBT College, Baguio Central University (BCU), and Polytechnic College of La Union showcased the degree programs they will be offering to incoming college students, providing learners with insights into academic pathways and career opportunities.

This engagement is part of Project ACCESS, CHED-CAR’s flagship initiative (Acquainting In-Coming College Entrants on Scholarship and Grants-in-Aid System) designed to strengthen partnerships with schools, provide career guidance, and expand awareness of scholarship programs. By reaching out to senior high school students early, the program equips future college entrants with the knowledge and resources needed to make informed decisions about their higher education and career pathways.

Through Project ACCESS, CHED-CAR continues to bridge the gap between secondary and tertiary education, promote equitable access to quality higher education, and empower learners to navigate their academic and professional journeys with confidence and clarity.