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

On March 11, 2025, CHED-UniFAST CAR, in collaboration with the Provincial Government of Kalinga, conducted an orientation for the new grantees of the Tulong Dunong Program under the Tertiary Education Subsidy (TDP-TES) in Provincial Sports Center, Tabuk City, Kalinga. The event gathered 1,100 student beneficiaries enrolled in Higher Education Institutions in Kalinga and residents of the province and Paracelis, Mountain Province.

Dr. Bernadette C. Pal-ec, Education Supervisor II and UniFAST Focal Person, led the orientation, delivering both an insightful overview of the program and also gave an inspirational message to the grantees. Ms. Ana Grace P. Salibad, Regional Coordinator of CHED-UniFAST CAR, discussed the roles and responsibilities of the grantees, ensuring that students understand their obligations under the financial assistance. Assisting in the distribution of Notices of Award were fellow Regional Coordinators, Mr. Lemuel Refuerzo, and Ms. Danielle Galong, along with the staff of the Office of the Provincial Government of Kalinga.

The Tulong Dunong Program (TDP-TES) is a component of the Tertiary Education Subsidy (TES) under Republic Act No. 10931, also known as the Universal Access to Quality Tertiary Education Act (UAQTEA). This initiative provides financial assistance to economically disadvantaged yet deserving students, granting each beneficiary ₱7,500 per regular semester. The subsidy helps cover tuition and other education-related expenses, easing financial burdens and allowing students to focus on their academic goals.

For more information about the TDP-TES program and other initiatives under UAQTEA, visit www.unifast.chedcar.com.