Leveraging educational opportunities for Indigenous Peoples (IP), Mabalacat City College participated in the first-ever IP Scholars Regional Summit at Pampanga State Agricultural University on 29 May 2024. The event themed, “Ihip, Daloy at Sinag: Pagtatagpo ng Landas, Pagtahak sa Pangarap,” was part of the 30th CHED Anniversary and the 4th Higher Education Day.
College President Michelle Aguilar-Ong and Kayantabe Manager Carol Arboleda joined the 12 IP students of the college under the Indigenous Peoples Equitable Access to College Education (I-PEACE) program in the activity. I-PEACE program demonstrates the college’s dedication to inclusive and equitable education as it ensures automatic admission to any member of the IP community in the city.
During the event, OIC Executive Director of UniFAST Atty. Ryan Estevez announced that all scholars present would automatically be included in the Tulong Dunong program. Meanwhile, CHED Chairperson Dr. Prospero “Popoy” De Vera III emphasized the importance of utilizing this support to achieve their educational goals and serve their communities.
The summit was attended by 13 other colleges, including Don Honorio Ventura State University (DHVSU), Aurora State College of Technology (ASCOT), President Ramon Magsaysay State University (PRMSU), Megabyte College Foundation, Inc., Lyceum of Western Zambales, Aurora State College of Technology (ASCOT), Bulacan State University (BSU), Mabalacat City College (MCC), Polytechnic College of Botolan, Celtech College San Fernando, Tarlac Agricultural University (TAU), The Manila Times College (MTC) and Kolehiyo ng Subic (KNS).
Through events like this, MCC continues to underscore its role as a community college that caters the needs of its community. Its participation in the summit highlights and promotes higher education for Indigenous Peoples, helping to cultivate future leaders and empower underserved communities.
