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

In line with its mission to support deserving students and promote inclusive education, the Commission on Higher Education – Cordillera Administrative Region (CHED‑CAR), through its UniFAST Unit, in coordination with the Congressional District Office of Benguet Province, successfully conducted the Orientation and Awarding of Notices of Award for the latest batch of Tulong Dunong Program (TDP) beneficiaries in Benguet Province on May 11, 2026, at King’s College of the Philippines.

A total of 885 student‑beneficiaries officially comprised Batch 23.1 of the program in the province, with the grant taking effect in the First Semester of Academic Year 2025–2026.

The activity formally opened with welcome remarks from Ms. Jayralyn Y. Siddayao, Head Coordinator of the Congressional District Office of Benguet Province. In her message, she underscored the program’s role as an investment in the students’ potential and highlighted the transformative power of education in uplifting lives, families, and communities.

The orientation proper was led by Ms. Marife B. Calimodag, one of the Regional Coordinators of the UniFAST Unit, who provided a comprehensive discussion on the roles and responsibilities of the new TDP grantees. She also emphasized the grounds for termination that beneficiaries must carefully observe to ensure continued eligibility throughout the duration of the program.

Hon. Eric G. Yap, Representative of the Lone District of Benguet, was present during the event and shared an encouraging message with the student-grantees. He emphasized that the Tulong Dunong Program is a collective endeavor supported by government efforts and the aspirations of the communities it serves. He also encouraged the students to pursue academic excellence and, in the future, give back by extending help to others once they have achieved their goals.

Meanwhile, Dr. Christopher Depnag, Education Supervisor II, represented OIC Regional Director Dr. Serafin L. Ngohayon and conveyed his congratulations to the new batch of grantees. He emphasized that the activity went beyond a ceremonial orientation and signing of Notices of Award, serving as a testament to how government initiatives anchored on compassion and purpose can help transform lives. He reaffirmed that the students’ dreams matter and that CHED-UniFAST and its partner institutions remain committed to supporting them throughout their academic journey.

The program concluded with the signing of the Notices of Award by the student‑grantees, marking the formal beginning of their journey as TDP grantees.

TDP is a financial subsidy under the Tertiary Education Subsidy (TES) Program, designed to support beneficiaries in covering at least a portion of the cost of tertiary education, including education‑related expenses. To know more about the program, visit https://unifast.gov.ph/tes.html.