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

In its continuing commitment to widen access to quality tertiary education, CHED-UniFAST CAR conducted an orientation for the latest batch of Tertiary Education Subsidy (TES) grantees of Benguet State University (BSU) on September 1, 2025. The activity was organized by the Student Scholarship and Grants Unit (SSGU) of BSU, headed by Mr. Kendrick Adrian I. Wanawan. A total of 1,787 beneficiaries complete this batch.

The orientation formally began with a welcome message from Dr. Erlyn Honeylette C. Marquez, Director of the Office of Student Services. This was followed by an inspirational message from BSU President, Dr. Kenneth A. Laruan, which was delivered on his behalf by Atty. Maridel P. Langbis, Executive Assistant to the Office of the President.

Representing CHED-UniFAST CAR, Dr. Bernadette C. Pal-ec, Education Supervisor II and UniFAST Focal Person, provided an overview of the programs under the Universal Access to Quality Tertiary Education Act (UAQTEA). She was joined by Ms. Jezeny O. Laoyan, Lead Regional Coordinator, who discussed the roles and responsibilities of TES beneficiaries.

From BSU’s SSGU, Ms. Vanessa Pinosan presented the TES grant processes and shared important reminders, while Mr. Aljayssie N. Bandao facilitated the TES Grantees’ Pledge of Commitment, affirming the students’ dedication to their studies and the values of the program.

TES is a flagship program under Republic Act No. 10931, or the Universal Access to Quality Tertiary Education Act, which provides financial support to eligible students, helping reduce economic barriers to higher education.

For more information on TES and other financial assistance programs, visit www.unifast.chedcar.com.