The Nueva Ecija University of Science and Technology (NEUST), through the Office of Student Affairs and Services, held an orientation and payout for the Tulong Dunong Program (TDP) grantees at the NEUST Amphitheater, Sumacab Campus, on November 27, 2025.

Dr. Feliciana Jacoba, EdD, Vice President for Academic Affairs, highlighted that there are around 22,000 to 23,000 examinees and the aim to enroll over 7,000 students in free education programs.

Dr. Jacoba encouraged students to study diligently, use the opportunity responsibly, and appreciate the combined efforts of the government, taxpayers, and their families.

She stressed that commitment to studies is the key to success and a better future, saying, “Free education means no entrance fee, tuition fee, miscellaneous fee, or graduation fee — but the key part of free education is your commitment to your studies.”

Meanwhile, Dr. Rhodora Jugo, University President, highlighted the success of programs promoting equal access to quality education, emphasizing the Universal Access to Quality Tertiary Education Act (R.A. 10931) and the continuous support of Senator Loren Legarda.

She stressed the importance of efficient implementation to ensure financial aid reaches those who truly need it, and encouraged scholars to study hard, be responsible, and cherish the opportunity as a pathway to a better future.

“Bilang mga beneficiaryo ng programa ito, naway ang inyong inyo ang pagkakataon ito ng may pasasalamat at malalim na layunin,” she said.

The orientation proper was led by Dr. Teodora Luz Mangahas, Head of the Scholarship and Financial Assistance Office, who discussed the process of selecting grantees.

Dr. Mangahas explained the criteria and requirements to ensure transparency and fairness in awarding the financial assistance.

Following the orientation, the payout session was conducted by Leonila Tulod, University Cashier III, who facilitated the distribution of cash grants to the students.

TDP is a subsidy under the Tertiary Education Subsidy (TES) Program of the government that aims to support at least the partial cost of tertiary education, inclusive of education-related expenses of the grantees.

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