Manila: The Commission on Higher Education (CHED) is expediting the release of Tertiary Education Subsidy (TES) assistance in quake-affected areas in Mindanao. In a statement, the CHED vowed to ensure the timely distribution of financial subsidies for higher education beneficiaries in line with the directives of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.
According to Philippines News Agency, CHED emphasized its commitment to carrying out the President's directive to expand and accelerate grants-in-aid programs for tertiary students. The Commission stated its dedication to providing support to higher education learners promptly, especially during this time of recovery. On June 13, CHED Chairperson Shirley Agrupis joined the government's whole-of-nation recovery efforts following a 7.8-magnitude earthquake that affected parts of Mindanao.
During her visit to Soccsksargen, Agrupis distributed TES assistance to 808 beneficiaries in General Santos City, Tacurong City, Koronadal City, and the municipality of Polomolok. A simultaneous distribution was also conducted in other parts of the region, serving 501 beneficiaries.
CHED reported that it has already released PHP2.02 billion in TES and Tulong Dunong Program (TDP) grants last April and May, covering semesters dating back to before the current CHED administration. For the second semester of the academic year 2025-2026, CHED and UniFAST will continue the release of PHP764 million in TES grants to 66,655 beneficiaries in Soccsksargen.
