𝐎𝐏𝐄𝐑𝐀𝐓𝐈𝐎𝐍 𝐊𝐀𝐉𝐎 𝐑𝐞𝐜𝐮𝐞𝐬 𝐋𝐨𝐜𝐚𝐥 𝐇𝐚𝐫𝐯𝐞𝐬𝐭

On May 9, 2026, a simple request for assistance became a meaningful act of community service through Operation KAJO, a community extension initiative of the Cordillera Career Development College. The initiative began when a local farmer reached out to Sir Charlie Liccud, an instructor from the College of Teacher Education, seeking help in selling freshly harvested vegetables. Faced with limited market opportunities, the farmer hoped that the school community could provide support by purchasing the produce.

Moved by the farmer’s situation, Sir Liccud immediately coordinated with fellow CCDC personnel and encouraged them to participate in the rescue-buying effort. The first batch consisted of cabbage priced at only ₱150 per 10-kilogram sack. Through the collective support of faculty and staff, approximately 150 kilograms of cabbage were purchased, providing immediate assistance to the farmer and helping prevent the produce from going to waste. The initiative also demonstrated how locally sourced produce can be integrated into institutional activities. Some of the vegetables procured through Operation KAJO were distributed as tokens and giveaways to approximately 180 participants and guests during the NCAA North Opening Program held on May 8, 2026. Likewise, local produce was also utilized during the Basketball Tune-Up Game with the University of the East (UE Red Warriors) on May 6, 2026, allowing the institution to showcase Benguet’s agricultural products while extending support to local farmers.

Following the success of its initial rescue-buying initiative, Operation KAJO continued its support to local farmers through a second wave of community participation on May 18, 2026. What began as a simple response to a farmer’s request for assistance has grown into a collective movement among CCDC employees and partner communities. Faculty, staff, and offices once again came together to purchase a variety of locally grown vegetables, including cabbage, potatoes, wombok, cauliflower, tomatoes, and sweet potatoes. Through the combined efforts of the CCDC community and staff of Admirals Park, a total of 392 kilograms of vegetables were collected and purchased during this second batch, providing significant support to local farmers and helping ensure that their harvests reached appreciative consumers. In addition, some of the produce acquired through Operation KAJO were distributed to participants during the MOA Signing Ceremony participated in by the institution on May 19, 2026.

What started as a single act of kindness soon evolved into a broader community initiative. Through Operation KAJO, CCDC continues to strengthen the connection between local farmers and the school community, creating opportunities for sustainable support while promoting the value of local agriculture.

Moreover, CCDC students and community members are encouraged to become part of Operation KAJO by offering produce from their farms or gardens.

 

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