Bontoc, Mountain Province – A total of 2,000 grantees from the Mountain Province State University (MPSU) received their financial assistance as beneficiaries of the Tertiary Education Subsidy and Tulong Dunong Program (TES-TDP) on February 7, 2025, at the Governor Leonard G. Mayaen Sports Complex.
The TDP-TES program, initiated by the Commission on Higher Education ( CHED), aims to support academically competent yet financially challenged students by providing financial assistance of P7,500 per semester for TDP grantees and P10,000 per semester for TES grantees. This funding is designed to cover school fees and other school-related expenses, alleviating some of the financial burdens faced by the students and their families.
During the orientation and payout ceremony, Bontoc Mayor Jerome “ Chagsen” Tudlong, Jr., emphasized the importance of using financial support wisely, urging the student-grantees to consider the sacrifices made by their parents.
Further, he expressed gratitude to the agencies involved and the political leaders who contributed to the realization of the financial assistance, highlighting its significance in addressing the educational needs of the students.
Congressman Maximo Dalog, Jr., represented by Wabilyn Lomong-oy, echoed the call for responsible utilization of the assistance provided.
MPSU President Edgar Cue also expressed his appreciation to CHED, partner stakeholders, and political leaders for their efforts in making the program a reality.
He encouraged the grantees to view the opportunity as a stepping stone for personal growth and educational development, reminding them of their parents’ sacrifices to support their education.
“ Never stop learning and never think of giving up your education because life never stops teaching you lessons, and life will give you countless opportunities,” Cue added.
He further emphasized that their diploma would be a testament to their dedication and resilience, serving as a passport to success.
Sangguniang Panlalawigan member Ezra Samson Gomez and Executive Assistant Winston Calde, representing the Provincial Government of Mountain Province under Governor Bonifacio Lacwasan, Jr., also encouraged the grantees to use the financial assistance wisely for their education.
Bauko Sangguniang Bayan member Edna Capuyan joined the officials in advising the students to excel in their studies, as education is the greatest gift they can offer their parents.
The event served as a reminder of the collective effort to support students in their pursuit of education and the importance of making the most of the opportunities presented to them. **Alpine L. Killa-Malwagay & Ruth Suagen, Bontoc LGU
