At least 132 students of state-run Mariano Marcos State University received a PHP7,500 grant each from the Commission on Higher Education’s (CHED) Tulong Dunong Program (TPD) during a ceremony held at the Student Center Building of the Batac campus on Thursday.

The TPD is a one-time grant to qualified and deserving students pursuing a college degree.

To qualify for the program, potential beneficiaries must be enrolled in any undergraduate degree course in state universities and colleges, CHED-recognized local universities and colleges and private higher education institutions.

Orphaned at a young age, 22-year-old Monica Asis, an agriculture student, said the financial assistance will ensure she can continue her education.

“I am thankful for this because I no longer have parents to support me. The amount will be used to pay for other school miscellaneous expenses and for my daily allowance,” she said.

As a parent to one of the beneficiaries, Nelie Eder of Barangay 10 Cabagan, Paoay town, said the financial assistance is a huge help for her daughter Niña.

Eder said the cost of transportation from Paoay to Niña’s school in Laoag City continues to increase.

“I am so grateful that there is a program like this to help the less fortunate, especially my daughter, who is now a second year student of Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education,” she said.

To avoid disrupting classes, beneficiaries who were unable to attend the stipend distribution in person were advised to send an authorized representative.

Lyra Mae Longgat, a Bachelor of Science in Accountancy student, said she submitted the requirements for the financial assistance program when she saw the social media announcement.

“When I read about the program, I just tried my luck and thankfully, God granted my wish. The amount will go a long way to support my daily allowance in school,” she said, citing that her tuition fee is free at the university but she needs money for food, transportation and other miscellaneous expenses. (PNA)