
September 12, 2025 — The Dr. Emilio B. Espinosa, Sr. Memorial State College of Agriculture and Technology (DEBESMSCAT), led by SUC President Dr. Arnel B. Millesca, joined the awarding of CHED-UniFAST scholarships and the official launching of the Electronic Certification, Authentication, and Verification (eCAV) system at the Cuneta Astrodome, Pasay City.
The event was highlighted by the presence of President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. and Commission on Higher Education (CHED) Chairperson Dr. Shirley C. Agrupis, who both underscored the administration’s commitment to ensuring wider access to quality higher education for Filipino students.
“Our assistance to our students proves that the returns are immeasurable when the government invests in people. When we strengthen education, we also strengthen our workforce and we forge a better future for our economy, for our country” President Marcos said in his message.
He further directed CHED to expand the coverage of UniFAST and ensure that its guidelines are well-communicated to parents and students before every academic year.
DEBESMSCAT was also spotlighted during the program when one of its UniFAST scholars was featured in an audio-visual presentation, sharing how the scholarship significantly supported her studies and academic journey.
UniFAST, or the Unified Student Financial Assistance System for Tertiary Education, provides tuition assistance to qualified students enrolled in state universities and colleges (SUCs) as well as CHED-recognized local universities and colleges nationwide.
Meanwhile, CHED officially rolled out the eCAV system, which streamlines the processing of academic documents such as transcripts of records and diplomas. Designed for efficiency and security, eCAV enables applicants to apply, pay, and track requests online, while institutions and employers can verify documents instantly using a QR code. The initiative is expected to benefit Filipinos seeking opportunities for overseas employment, migration, or graduate education.