The Commission on Higher Education (CHED) Region 2, led by Atty. Marco Cicero Domingo, along with LPGMA Partylist Representative Hon. Allan U. Ty, visited Isabela State University Roxas Campus on September 28, 2024, to conduct an orientation and ceremonial payout for Batch 5.1 grantees of the Tulong Dunong Program (TDP). The event took place at the ISUR Rang-ayan Gymnasium.

Dr. Rosalyn L. Bautista, the Campus Administrator, enthusiastically welcomed the delegates. She proudly presented the 313 TDP grantees, whose scholarships were funded through the initiative of Congressman Ty and the LPGMA Partylist. Dr. Bautista expressed that the grant provides significant support for the students in their academic pursuits.

 

Hon. Jonathan Calderon, Mayor of Roxas Municipality, was also present at the event. He delivered an inspiring message, stressing the importance of the opportunity given to the grantees. “Have you all realized that you are a bit luckier than other students? This privilege should not be wasted,” he stated.

 

 

Mr. Abraham M. Maguigad Jr., Project Technical Staff of CHED Region 2, further motivated the grantees by announcing that each student would receive Php 7,500 per semester, provided they comply with the program’s requirements. He also discussed the various provisions of the grants to ensure the scholars understood their responsibilities.

 

President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. echoed this sentiment in a video message, emphasizing that the grant aligns with the “Bagong Pilipinas” vision, which seeks to accelerate the development of the Filipino people and empower them to contribute to the nation’s progress.

CHED Commissioner Dr. J. Prospero E. De Vera III acknowledged that poverty remains a major barrier to higher education for many students. He highlighted the significance of Republic Act 10931, also known as the Universal Access to Quality Tertiary Education Act, implemented in 2017 to provide financial assistance and support to students.

Atty. Marco Domingo, CHED Regional Director, surprised the grantees by revealing that the Philippines is one of only 22 countries worldwide offering free access to education, and that Isabela State University is the largest beneficiary of the program, with over 12,000 scholars. This highlighted the privilege of receiving the TDP grant, encouraging students to make the most of this opportunity for their educational, personal, and societal growth.

In his speech, Hon. Allan U. Ty urged the students to use the grant as a source of inspiration, saying, “You must have your goal, your aspiration, and you must always go after it. You need perseverance, curiosity, and determination to reach your stars.” His words served as a powerful reminder for the grantees to pursue their dreams and strive for excellence.

 

This initiative aligns with several of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 1: No Poverty, as it provides financial support to students from underprivileged backgrounds. It also promotes SDG 4: Quality Education by ensuring access to higher education, helping students realize their potential. Lastly, it embodies SDG 17: Partnership for the Goals, as it demonstrates the collaboration between government agencies, local leaders, and educational institutions to foster societal and educational progress.