The Commission on Higher Education (CHED) Caraga, headed by Regional Director Dr. Nelia A. Alibin, took part in the Technical Budget Hearing (TBH) for State Universities and Colleges (SUCs) in the region held today, April 10, 2025, at Surigao del Norte State University – Del Carmen Campus, Siargao Islands, Surigao del Norte.

Organized by the Department of Budget and Management (DBM) Regional Office XIII, the activity served as an avenue for SUCs to present their proposed programs, projects, and activities for Fiscal Year 2026 under Tier 2 funding. The event also facilitated discussions on key updates concerning organizational structure, staffing, and compensation.

Among the key officials in attendance were Dir. Gerald Janda of the DBM Central Office – Organization, Position Classification and Compensation Bureau (OPCCB); Dir. Maria Fe Jagna, CESO III, Regional Director of DBM RO XIII; Dr. Rowena Plando, President of Surigao del Norte State University (SNSU); Dr. Joy Capistrano, President of Agusan del Sur State College of Agriculture and Technology (ASSCAT); Dr. Lady Sol Suazo, Vice President for Academic Affairs of North Eastern Mindanao State University (NEMSU); and Dr. Michelle Japitana, Vice President for Administration of Caraga State University (CSU).

CHED Caraga reaffirms its support for the SUCs in building a more responsive and quality-driven higher education system in the region.