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

Strengthening its financial assistance program for academic success, the Commission on Higher Education – Cordillera Administrative Region (CHED-CAR), through its UniFAST Unit, successfully conducted the orientation of the newest batch of Tertiary Education Subsidy (TES) grantees of Saint Louis College of Bulanao in Tabuk City, Kalinga, on March 6, 2026.

This orientation welcomed Batch 1.1, consisting of 176 new grantees for the First Semester of Academic Year 2025–2026, who will each receive ₱13,500 per semester as support for their academic journey. The program aims to provide financial assistance while inspiring beneficiaries to pursue excellence and complete their higher education.

The session was led by Dr. Bernadette C. Pal-ec, Education Supervisor II and UniFAST Unit Head, who emphasized the transformative value of higher education as a gateway to achieving one’s dreams. She also provided a detailed briefing on the roles and responsibilities of TES beneficiaries, ensuring that students understand the requirements necessary to continue availing the grant until the completion of their undergraduate programs.

The orientation also included a Q&A segment, facilitated by Ms. Marife B. Calimodag, one of the Regional Coordinators of the Unit. Grantees raised clarifications and inquiries regarding the grant, academic compliance, and reporting requirements. The discussion encouraged active participation, fostering a deeper understanding of the TES program and its benefits.

Through this initiative, the CHED-CAR UniFAST Unit reinforces its commitment to supporting the academic aspirations of deserving students, empowering them with the resources, guidance, and knowledge needed to succeed in higher education.