The Orientation on the Tulong Dunong Program (TDP) and the Releasing of Notice of Awards and Stipends under the Tertiary Education Subsidy (TES) for the Province of Kalinga was held on December 3, 2024, at the Kalinga State University Gymnasium, Bulanao Campus. This significant event convened 88 grantees from KSU, 30 students from other colleges in the province, KSU officials, Commission on Higher Education (CHED-CAR) representatives, and dignitaries, including a representative from Senator Christopher Lawrence “Bong” Go and the Provincial Governor’s Office.
The program commenced with a comprehensive discussion on Republic Act 10931, which institutionalized free tuition and other fees for state universities and colleges. Dr. Bernadette C. Pal-ec, CHED-CAR’s Unifast Focal Person, emphasized that this scholarship program is designed to support students from underprivileged backgrounds by covering tuition fees, educational materials, and other essential costs, enabling them to pursue quality tertiary education.
In her welcome remarks, Dr. Joy Grace P. Doctor, KSU President, represented by Dr. Marilou Adora, Vice President for Academics and Student Development, reaffirmed KSU’s dedication to equitable education. She highlighted the instrumental role of the Tulong Dunong Program in bridging financial gaps and empowering students to pursue academic goals without financial burdens.
During the event, video messages from President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., CHED Chairperson Dr. Prospero E. De Vera III, and Senator Christopher Lawrence “Bong” Go inspired the grantees to embrace this opportunity with determination. They emphasized the importance of education as a tool for personal and societal growth, urging students to make the most of the financial support provided.
Dr. Demetrio P. Anduyan Jr., CHED-CAR Director IV, and Ms. Pia Cuyugan Talavera, Political Affairs Officer, stressed the value of this program. They reminded students to use the financial assistance wisely, as the program has limited funding, and not all applicants were granted this opportunity.
Representing Provincial Governor James Edduba, Atty. John Paul Baguiwan highlighted the profound impact of education on community and national progress. “Education is the bridge that connects dreams to reality and opportunities to achievements,” he stated, emphasizing that the program is not just about financial support but about creating a legacy of empowerment for the youth of Kalinga.
Grantees Mr. Villamin D. Tabunigao Jr., Rubijane D. Padang, and Dominador C. Simangan expressed gratitude to Senator Bong Go, CHED, and university administrators for making the program a reality. They shared how this assistance has given them the means to pursue their educational aspirations despite financial challenges.
In her closing remarks, Dr. Bernadette C. Pal-ec reminded the students that this financial assistance is not merely a gift but an investment in their potential. She encouraged them to treat this privilege with responsibility, allowing it to fuel their academic pursuits and personal growth.
The event underscored the significance of education as a transformative tool, providing hope and opportunities for deserving students while building a brighter future for Kalinga.
