Education has always been called the great equalizer. But for many Filipino students in State Universities and Colleges (SUCs), the road to a college diploma is far from equal. Behind every enrollment form are quiet struggles: unpaid bills, postponed dreams, and families doing their best with what little they have.
For these students, the CHED UniFAST Tertiary Education Subsidy (TES) and CHED UniFAST Tulong Dunong Program (TDP) become more than financial support; it becomes hope.
What some may see as “assistance,” the students who lived through it recognize as a lifeline. TES and TDP promise that talent will not be limited by circumstance, that potential deserves a chance to grow, and that excellence should never be a privilege reserved for a few. By easing the weight of educational expenses, TES and TDP allow students not only to remain in school but to rise, to discover confidence, to reflect on their purpose, and to find direction.
Today, through King’s Catch: Southern Leyte State University’s InFocus Series, Win Streak, we shine a light on students whose journeys embody the true impact of TES and TDP. Their stories remind us that when opportunity meets perseverance, dreams do not just survive — they are pursued
The Tertiary Education Subsidy and Tulong Dunong Program did not merely change lives; it lifted students and gave them the space to soar beyond limitations.
This is a testament.
This is Win Streak.
Resilience Rewarded: A Journey to Magna Cum Laude
As the eldest of four siblings, Marinell M. Presas learned responsibility long before stepping into a university classroom. With an unemployed mother and a father relying on unstable income as a driver, pursuing higher education meant navigating uncertainty — an experience intensified during the pandemic.
There were moments of doubt and quiet tears, days when financial hardship threatened to overshadow her dreams. Yet Marinell pressed on. Becoming a TES grantee marked a turning point, not just financially, but emotionally.
“With the assistance of TES, I was able to overcome obstacles, especially financial ones. I am forever grateful for the support that helped me achieve my goals," Marinell shared, knowing for the first time, she could focus fully on her studies without burdening her parents, managing her needs independently and purposefully.
Knowing she was among the few chosen TES scholars fueled her determination. Through discipline, resilience, and gratitude, Marinell transformed adversity into achievement, graduating Magna Cum Laude, a distinction earned through both grit and grace.
Determination Rooted in Gratitude
Growing up in a modest household, Rica Mae S. Ancot understood early on that education demanded sacrifice. Her parents relied on irregular income from fishing, selling firewood, and doing small errands, barely enough to meet daily needs. For years, it was her aunt’s support that kept her in school.
College life brought even greater challenges, but Rica Mae refused to give up. When she was selected as a TES scholar, her journey took a decisive turn. The scholarship eased her financial worries and, more importantly, lifted the burden from the family member who had long stood behind her.
Beyond financial relief, TES became a source of motivation—pushing her to persevere, stay focused, and honor the opportunity entrusted to her. She graduated Cum Laude, carrying with her deep gratitude and a renewed sense of purpose.
“This support eased my financial burden and inspired me to keep striving toward my academic goals,” she shared.
Support When It Matters Most
For Jelie E. Jaralve, the scholarship arrived at one of the most critical moments of her life: during her review period for the Licensure Examination for Social Workers. It was a season defined by pressure, uncertainty, and daily financial demands.
Through the Tulong Dunong Program (TDP), Jelie received timely assistance, allowing her to focus fully on her preparation, free from the constant worry about daily expenses. The support strengthened not only her academic readiness, but her belief in herself.
“The scholarship not only supports my needs; it strengthens my faith in myself and helps me succeed.”
With faith, determination, and the backing of TDP, Jelie passed the board examination, turning years of sacrifice into a lifelong achievement.
Empowering Futures Through Education
The stories of Marinell, Rica Mae, and Jelie reflect the heart of the Tertiary Education Subsidy: opening doors, nurturing excellence, and empowering future leaders. Their journeys affirm a powerful truth: when education is supported, potential is realized.
Through Win Streak, we celebrate not only academic honors but the courage, resilience, and determination behind them, proof that with the right support, students do not just graduate.
They graduated with Laude and are proud.
