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

To strengthen awareness of student-grantees regarding their obligations and responsibilities under government-funded educational assistance programs, the Commission on Higher Education – Cordillera Administrative Region (CHED-CAR), through its UniFAST Unit, conducted an orientation for student beneficiaries of Benguet State University (BSU) – Bokod Campus on October 1, 2026. A total of 149 beneficiaries under the Tertiary Education Subsidy (TES) and Tulong Dunong Program (TDP) participated in the activity.

The orientation was led by Dr. Bernadette C. Pal-ec, Education Supervisor II and Head of the UniFAST Unit. During the session, student-grantees were oriented on the grounds for termination of TES and TDP educational assistance, as well as their roles and responsibilities as beneficiaries under Republic Act No. 10931, otherwise known as the Universal Access to Quality Tertiary Education Act. The activity aimed to ensure that grantees are fully informed of the conditions governing their scholarships and financial assistance and to encourage responsible compliance with program requirements.

In his message, Dr. Dempsey O. Depayso, Campus Director of BSU-Bokod Campus, reminded the beneficiaries to value the opportunity given to them through the UniFAST programs.

“Be thankful because you are among the lucky students selected as UniFAST grantees from the many students of BSU Bokod Campus. This opportunity is something to be truly appreciated,” Dr. Depayso emphasized.

The orientation also served as a venue for students to raise concerns and seek clarification on program policies and benefits. Through activities such as these, CHED-CAR UniFAST Unit continue to promote accountability, responsible stewardship of government resources, and the successful completion of higher education among student-grantees in the Cordillera Region.