BANGUED, Abra (PIA) – A total of 173 college students in the province of Abra who maintained a grade average of 2.0 received P7,500 financial assistance under the Tulong Dunong Program of the Commission on Higher Education (CHED) in partnership with the Office of Congresswoman Menchie Bernos.

The  cash aid provided every semester aims to help student-beneficiaries meet their school needs. This program is under Republic Act 10931 or  Universal Access to Quality Tertiary Education Act.

 
During the distribution of assistance at the University of Abra (UA) Bangued campus, Bernos emphasized the importance of education for students to achieve their aspirations.
 
“I understand that pursuing education can be challenging due to various financial needs. This assistance should be used wisely to support your studies,” she said.
 
Valerie Rio Cano, a beneficiary from Dolores, expressed her gratitude for the financial aid which that will give her more opportunities for her studies.

“This program greatly contributes to my educational journey by providing crucial support and additional funds for my daily expenses, she shared.

The distribution of Tulong Dunong financial assistance was led by Bernos, UA President Gregorio Turqueza, and UA Vice-President for Academic Affairs Noel Begnalen.
 
The Tulong Dunong program is one of the scholarship programs of the CHED to help eligible and qualified students pursue their college degrees. (JJPM-PIA Abra/Rachelle Joy Alvis, PIA-GIP)