The Commission on Higher Education (CHED) Caraga, in partnership with Caraga State University (CSU), successfully held the virtual engagement activity βTBH with CSU Scholarsβ on June 27, 2025 via Zoom, as part of the regional initiative CHED Caraga Fuels: Funding Undergraduate Excellence for Learning and Success.βTo Be Honestβ (TBH) served as a safe and open space for scholars to voice their concerns, share their experiences, and engage in meaningful dialogue with the CHED Scholarship Unit.
Adding inspiration to the event, Dr. Rissa L. Mercado, CSUβs Vice President for Student Affairs and Auxiliary Services, shared a heartfelt message with the scholars.The event featured key segments, including an HIV Awareness Orientation led by Mr. Florence Jones Noelle R. Acosta, RN, Director of CSUβs University Center for Health and Wellness, which emphasized the importance of health education in holistic student development.
Scholarship updates were shared by CHED Caraga focal persons: Ms. Hashana Rosh Ibayan (CoScho), Ms. Charlyn Manos (CMSP), and Mr. Vincent Galinato (ACEF-GIAHEP). An open forum followed, allowing scholars to raise questions and receive direct responses from the CHED team.
The activity concluded with a closing message from Mr. Ever Joy G. Rabadan, MAEM, MSc, Education Supervisor II and Scholarship Unit In-Charge, reaffirming CHED Caragaβs ongoing support for scholarsβ success and development.
The event was made possible through the support of CHED Caraga Regional Director Dr. Nelia A. Alibin, the dedicated CHED Scholarship Unit personnel, and the Office of Admission and Services of CSU led by Dir. Erwin N. Arlan, with the active participation of CSU scholars.