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

Going the extra mile to bring government education programs closer to learners in geographically challenged areas, the Commission on Higher Education – Cordillera Administrative Region (CHED‑CAR) conducted Project ACCESS at Namulditan Senior High School (NSHS) in Hingyon, Ifugao, on March 27, 2026. The activity engaged Grade 11 and Grade 12 learners, together with their teachers, to provide timely information on higher education opportunities and scholarship programs.

Mrs. Jeanalyn T. Pengiton, School Principal of NSHS, warmly welcomed the CHED‑CAR team and participants. A total of 52 learners attended the activity.

Participants were briefed on available education assistance programs to help them prepare for 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. Meanwhile, 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, allowing learners and teachers to raise questions and clarifications regarding the scholarship and financial assistance programs. Dr. Bernadette C. Pal‑ec, Education Supervisor II and Head of the UniFAST Unit, addressed the participants’ queries and provided additional guidance to ensure a better understanding of the programs.

To conclude the activity, Ms. Menzie O. Kuengan, Supervising Education Program Specialist, conveyed the CHED‑CAR Regional Office’s gratitude to Namulditan Senior High School for its warm accommodation and support. She also encouraged the learners to pursue their tertiary education, emphasizing that various CHED‑UniFAST education assistance programs are available to help them achieve their academic goals.

Project ACCESS—Acquainting In‑Coming College Entrants on Scholarship and Grants‑in‑Aid System—is CHED‑CAR’s flagship initiative designed to strengthen partnerships with schools, provide career guidance, and expand awareness of scholarship opportunities. By reaching senior high school learners early, the project 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.