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

In line with its continuing efforts to strengthen student support programs, the Commission on Higher Education – Cordillera Administrative Region (CHED-CAR), through its UniFAST Unit, successfully conducted an orientation session for the new Tertiary Education Subsidy (TES) and Tulong Dunong Program (TDP-TES) beneficiaries of the Divine Word College of Bangued (DWCB) – Abra on April 20, 2026.

A total of 377 student-beneficiaries attended the session, where they were thoroughly oriented on their roles and responsibilities as grantees. Ms. Jezeny O. Laoyan, Lead Regional Coordinator of the UniFAST Unit, underscored the transformative impact of the program on students and their families. She reminded beneficiaries to maximize the use of their stipends, remain mindful of the grounds for termination, and stay committed to completing their degree programs on time.

A key highlight of the orientation was the rollout of Landbank account opening for the beneficiaries. This initiative, carried out in partnership with CHED, UniFAST, and the Landbank of the Philippines (LBP), aims to expedite the release of stipends by directly crediting them to the students’ accounts.

Mr. Rolando B. Jaquias, Department Manager of LBP Bangued Branch, together with Ms. Rizza A. Villanueva, introduced the beneficiaries to the bank’s digital services and guided them through the account opening process via the LBP App. Students were assisted in opening accounts under the PISO Plus product, a student-friendly option requiring no maintaining balance and no initial deposit — making it highly accessible for beneficiaries.

By the end of the session, the beneficiaries not only gained a deeper understanding of their responsibilities but also successfully opened their Landbank accounts, ensuring that financial assistance will be delivered efficiently starting Academic Year 2026–2027.

The orientation was organized in close cooperation with DWCB-Abra, led by UniFAST Focal Person Ms. Janice Sta. Cruz and Ms. Ma. Josefa Peralta, whose active involvement ensured smooth facilitation and support for the beneficiaries.

This milestone event reflects CHED-CAR UniFAST’s unwavering commitment to empowering students through accessible financial aid and comprehensive guidance. With strengthened partnerships and streamlined processes, the program continues to pave the way for more equitable opportunities in higher education — giving every beneficiary the tools to succeed and thrive.