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

In line with its commitment to expanding access to quality tertiary education, the Commission on Higher Education–Cordillera Administrative Region (CHED-CAR), through its UniFAST Unit, partnered with the Department of Social Welfare and Development–Cordillera Administrative Region (DSWD-CAR) in the conduct of Project ACCESS during the meeting of the Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program (4Ps) Parent Leaders (PLs) in Bokod, Benguet on June 16, 2026.

The gathering brought together PLs from various barangays of Bokod, providing a valuable platform for information-sharing and community engagement. As frontline partners in the implementation of the 4Ps, PLs play a vital role in supporting DSWD initiatives. They assist in organizing meetings, updating beneficiary profiles, facilitating Family Development Sessions, and carrying out other voluntary activities that contribute to the effective and accountable delivery of social welfare services. A total of 16 PLs attended the activity.

Representing CHED-CAR was Dr. Bernadette C. Pal-ec, Education Supervisor II and Head of the UniFAST Unit, who delivered a comprehensive presentation on the educational assistance programs available to Filipino learners. She discussed the grants-in-aid provided under the Universal Access to Quality Tertiary Education Act (UAQTEA), as well as various scholarship opportunities offered by the Commission, highlighting how these programs can help students pursue and complete their higher education goals.

The discussion highlighted the important role of Parent Leaders in sharing accurate information with 4Ps beneficiary families. Through the presentation, they gained a better understanding of CHED’s educational assistance, grants-in-aid, and scholarship programs, enabling them to guide eligible students and families in accessing higher education opportunities. The activity also strengthened their understanding of their responsibilities in supporting the effective implementation of the 4Ps, while reaffirming the shared commitment of CHED-CAR and DSWD-CAR to expanding access to education and improving the lives of Filipino families through government support programs.

Also present during the meeting were DSWD-CAR representatives Ms. Carla Mae Jane B. Fagta, Mr. Lyndon John W. Pasion, and Mr. Jonathan Jose L. Yohanon, who facilitated the activity and provided guidance to the participating Parent Leaders.

Project ACCESS—or Acquainting In‑Coming College Entrants on Scholarship and Grants‑in‑Aid System—is CHED‑CAR’s flagship information campaign designed to strengthen linkages with partner institutions and increase awareness of available scholarships and grants‑in‑aid. The initiative supports CHED‑CAR’s efforts to improve access to higher education and assist students in making informed academic decisions.