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

The Commission on Higher Education – Cordillera Administrative Region (CHED‑CAR), through its UniFAST Unit, conducted the first session of UAQTEA Time for the year on April 17, 2026, aired via Kalinga State University (KSU) Online Radio. Hosted by Ms. Mary June Wacas, the session featured discussions on updates in the implementation of programs under the Universal Access to Quality Tertiary Education Act (UAQTEA) in the region.

The program was led by Dr. Bernadette C. Pal‑ec, Education Supervisor II and UniFAST Unit Head of CHED‑CAR; Ms. Jezeny O. Laoyan, Lead Regional Coordinator of the UniFAST Unit; and Mr. Bernardo Ganotice IV, UniFAST Focal Person of KSU, who shared key developments and insights on UAQTEA programs.

One of the highlights of the episode was the featured beneficiary story of Ms. Jenny Claire Fontanilla, a Tertiary Education Subsidy (TES) Batch 15 beneficiary of Kalinga State University, whose grant took effect during the First Semester of Academic Year 2024–2025.

Jenny Claire is a native of Barangay Gobgob, Tabuk City, Kalinga, and the youngest among eight siblings. Her parents are Jun, a farmer and Barangay Tanod, and Tessie, a store owner and housekeeper. From an early age, she witnessed her family’s financial struggles—an experience that shaped her resolve to support herself financially beginning in Senior High School to help ease her parents’ burden. On weekends, she would prepare and sell meals through a small food business she established at home.

Beyond her academic pursuits, Jenny Claire has demonstrated strong leadership and resilience. She currently serves as the President of the Association of Students of Public Administration (ASPA) and is also an athlete. Reflecting on her journey, she shared that it was marked by emotional and financial hardships, often leading to moments of doubt and breakdowns. Through the encouragement and guidance of her coach, Ma’am Mica, she regained hope and the determination to persist in her studies and personal goals.

The COVID‑19 pandemic presented yet another challenge when classes shifted to online learning. With limited resources, Jenny Claire made the difficult decision to stop for one semester to focus on working and saving funds to continue her education. Her perseverance paid off, enabling her to re‑enroll the following semester and pursue her Bachelor of Public Administration—a course she chose to prepare herself for a future in public service and, eventually, law.

Jenny Claire described her inclusion in the TES program as a significant turning point in her academic journey. The financial assistance helped her cover thesis‑related expenses and allowed her to save part of the allowance to further support her small business.

In addition to TES, Jenny Claire is also a Project MARITES Batch 2025 completer. Project MARITES (Mobilizing Available Resources through Inclusive Training on Entrepreneurship of Student‑Grantees) is a regional initiative of CHED‑CAR, in partnership with DTI‑CAR and state universities and colleges, designed to equip TES beneficiaries with entrepreneurial skills. Motivated to strengthen her business acumen, Jenny Claire eagerly participated in the program, viewing it as an opportunity to expand her livelihood.

Her unwavering determination and hard work have brought her closer to realizing her dreams, as she is now a candidate for graduation in Academic Year 2025–2026. After graduation, she plans to take additional teaching units to qualify for the profession, driven by her aspiration to give back to her community through education.

Expressing her gratitude, Jenny Claire shared:

“I want to thank the Lord for all the blessings He has given me. To the government, the taxpayers, CHED‑UniFAST Cordillera, and the KSU UniFAST staff—thank you for the opportunities you have given me as a grantee. The grant was a big help, especially for someone like me who is a working student. I hope that more students will benefit from this program in the future.”

She also shared this message of encouragement:

“To my fellow students, grantee or non‑grantee, continue and finish your studies. Despite the hardships in life, there are many ways to succeed. As long as you are determined and hardworking, you can achieve your dreams.”

Jenny Claire Fontanilla’s story is a testament to how accessible, quality higher education—supported by responsive government programs—can transform lives. Through determination, hard work, and the support of UAQTEA programs such as FHE and TES along with regional initiatives such as Project MARITES, she stands as an inspiration to many students striving to overcome adversity and pursue a brighter future through education.

Watch the full episode of the UAQTEA Time on KSU Online here: https://youtu.be/RFwkKH0mJ2M.