By: Cristy C. Pitas, Project Support Staff V

The Commission on Higher Education – Cordillera Administrative Region (CHED-CAR) UniFAST Unit met with the newest batch of beneficiaries of the Tertiary Education Subsidy (TES) from Baguio College of Technology (BCT) for an orientation held on March 11, 2026. The activity welcomed 39 newly selected TES grantees for the First Semester of Academic Year 2025–2026.

Under the program, each beneficiary will receive ₱13,500 per semester to help support their educational expenses. The subsidy aims not only to ease the financial burden faced by students but also to motivate them to pursue academic excellence and successfully complete their higher education.

Prior to the formal orientation, Ms. Marites S. Latogan, UniFAST Focal Person of BCT, addressed the grantees and reminded them that receiving the subsidy is both a privilege and a responsibility. She discussed the institution’s policies and outlined the specific requirements that students must fulfill to retain their subsidy. She emphasized that strict compliance with these policies ensures that the grant continues to serve its purpose of supporting deserving students throughout their academic journey.

The orientation proper was led by Dr. Bernadette C. Pal-ec, Education Supervisor II and UniFAST Unit Head of CHED-CAR. In her message, she highlighted the transformative value of higher education, describing it as a pathway toward achieving one’s aspirations and long-term goals. She emphasized that education extends beyond academic achievement, serving as a foundation for personal growth, professional advancement, and meaningful contribution to society.

Dr. Pal-ec also provided a detailed briefing on the roles, responsibilities, processes, and obligations of TES beneficiaries. She explained the conditions attached to the grant and clarified the requirements that students must meet to continue receiving the subsidy throughout their undergraduate studies.

The orientation concluded with an interactive discussion that allowed the grantees to raise questions and seek clarification about the TES program. Several inquiries focused on the schedule and procedures for the release of subsidy payments, enabling students to better understand the processes involved.

Through this activity, the CHED-CAR UniFAST Unit, in coordination with BCT, reaffirmed its commitment to ensuring the effective implementation of the subsidy and to supporting students in their pursuit of accessible and quality higher education.