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

Continuing its outreach efforts to ensure that senior high school learners are well informed about higher education opportunities, the Commission on Higher Education – Cordillera Administrative Region (CHED‑CAR) conducted Project ACCESS at Ifugao Technical Vocational School (ITVS) in Lamut, Ifugao, on March 27, 2026, while en route back to La Trinidad, Benguet.

The activity was attended by 160 learners from Grades 10 to 12, reflecting strong interest among students in learning more about available scholarship and financial assistance programs. Mrs. Marlyn T. Lupa‑i, Public Schools District Supervisor, welcomed the CHED‑CAR team and participants, underscoring the value of timely information in guiding learners’ education and career decisions.

During the session, students were briefed on various education assistance programs designed to support their transition to tertiary education. Ms. Jezeny O. Laoyan, Lead Regional Coordinator of the UniFAST Unit, presented the programs under the Universal Access to Quality Tertiary Education Act (UAQTEA), including Free Higher Education, the Tertiary Education Subsidy (TES), and the Tulong Dunong Program. Complementing this, Mr. Jay Van P. Basilio, Project Technical Staff, discussed the CHED Merit‑Based Scholarship Program and the Bagong Pilipinas Merit Scholarship Program.

An open forum followed, providing learners and teachers the opportunity to seek clarifications on the scholarship and financial assistance programs. Dr. Bernadette C. Pal‑ec, Education Supervisor II and Head of the UniFAST Unit, addressed the participants’ questions and offered guidance to help them better understand the application processes and eligibility requirements.

In her message, Ms. Menzie O. Kuengan, Supervising Education Program Specialist, conveyed the CHED‑CAR Regional Office’s appreciation to ITVS for its warm accommodation and support. She encouraged the learners to pursue higher education, assuring them that CHED‑UniFAST programs are in place to help make college education more accessible.

The activity concluded with closing remarks from Mrs. Bernadette B. Villanueva, School Principal of ITVS, who thanked CHED‑CAR for bringing Project ACCESS to the school and for guiding learners toward informed academic choices.

Project ACCESS—Acquainting In‑Coming College Entrants on Scholarship and Grants‑in‑Aid System—is CHED‑CAR’s flagship initiative aimed at strengthening school partnerships, providing career guidance, and expanding awareness of scholarship opportunities.

Through this program, CHED‑CAR continues to bridge the gap between secondary and tertiary education, promote equitable access to quality higher education, and empower learners to confidently navigate their academic and career pathways.