Val Cael – Page 3 – Cordillera Career Development College

CCDC Library Expands Access with Curated Free Electronic Resources

In today’s digital age, access to information extends far beyond the traditional library shelves. To enhance learning and research, the Cordillera College Library has expanded its services by subscribing to electronic databases and offering a curated collection of free electronic resources beginning in 2023.

This initiative includes carefully selected journals, magazines, and databases tailored to support the various degree programs offered by the institution. All these resources are accessible through the college’s official website, allowing students, faculty, and researchers to explore credible information anytime and anywhere.

With the abundance of online content available today, students often struggle to identify reliable sources. Through this curated collection, the library helps ensure that users have quick access to credible, high-quality information, fostering more efficient and effective research practices.

This program also aligns with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)—specifically SDG 4, which promotes inclusive and equitable quality education and lifelong learning opportunities for all, and SDG 10, which advocates for reducing inequalities by providing equal access to information regardless of background. By embracing digital innovation, the CCDC Library continues to uphold its commitment to supporting academic excellence and empowering its learning community through accessible and reliable information resources.

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Nurturing Nutrition: CCDC Adopts Food Policy or Healthy Food Options in the School Canteen

In accordance with the Department of Education (DepEd) – Cordillera Administrative Region (CAR) Regional Memorandum No. 210, series of 2017, Cordillera Career Development College (CCDC) adopted a policy guide on food to display in the school canteen. CCDC’s policy, and the Regional Memorandum itself, was made in response to the DepEd Order No. 13, series of 2017 or the Policy and Guidelines on
Healthy Food and Beverage Choices in Schools and DepEd Offices. By adhering to these mandates, CCDC promotes good health and well-being by offering healthy food choices in the school canteen and fostering healthy eating habits in students and staff. Through this policy, CCDC hopes to combat the rising issue of obesity in children and adolescents, as well as promote sustainable food production and consumption.

Under the DepEd Order No. 13, s. 2017, foods and beverages are categorized into three categories: Green, Yellow, and Red. Green category refers to products that should always be available in school canteens. These include safe and clean water, oatmeal, fishes, fresh fruits, and lean meats. Food and beverages under this category provide a wide range of nutrients, and has minimal or negligible amounts of fats, sugars, and sodium. Yellow category foods and beverages are those that contain a decent amount of nutrients but a higher proportion of fats, sugars, and sodium. Thus, they should be served and eaten in moderation. These include fried rice, stir-fried vegetables, processed meats, and 100% fresh fruit juices. Foods and beverages under the red category generally contain high amounts of fats, sugars, and sodium. Therefore, they are not recommended to be served at school canteens. These include soft drinks, sweet pastries like cakes and donuts, bacon, caffeinated beverages, and sweetened fruits.

The CCDC canteen offers a variety of foods and beverages via multiple food stalls that serve their own menu. The menus are monitored to ensure that they meet the Yellow and Green categories. CCDC employs a policy banning single-use plastic. Therefore, soft drinks, sweetened fruit juices, and other unhealthy beverages are not sold. CCDC encourages everyone to bring their own water bottles in accordance with the no-plastic policy.

Link to the Regional Memorandum and basis for the school policy, click here.

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CCDC Champions Media and Information Literacy in the Age of AI Aligning with the 2025 Global Theme: “Minds Over AI — MIL in Digital Spaces”

In observance of Global Media and Information Literacy (MIL) Week (October 24–31), the Cordillera Career Development College (CCDC), through the College of Teacher Education(CTE), proudly launched a week-long celebration anchored on UNESCO’s 2025 global theme, “Minds Over AI — MIL in Digital Spaces.” The initiative invited students, educators, and the wider academic community to strengthen their media and information literacy, sharpen critical thinking, and embrace ethical digital practices.

The celebration opened on October 24 with a cascade session titled “Mastering Literacy, AI, and Critical Thought,” facilitated by Ms. Dina Amdos, CTE Faculty and U.S. Embassy Regional English Language Office (RELO) Grantee. Ms. Amdos shared insights on the effective use of AI tools for evidence-based teaching strategies, lesson design, administrative efficiency, digital citizenship, and online safety. Her session deepened participants’ understanding of both the opportunities and challenges posed by artificial intelligence in education, media, and daily communication.

Throughout the week, various departments—from basic education to college—engaged in diverse and interactive activities. Highlights included:

Media Sense Central, a booth featuring interactive games and digital literacy challenges such as identifying media types, spotting fake news, and addressing online ethics scenarios.
A Fact-Check Campaign on health and climate misinformation, empowering students to detect misleading claims and document their verification process.
An Infographic Contest, encouraging students to produce advocacy pieces and reflective reports promoting digital responsibility.
A Dynamic Quiz Bee, testing knowledge on AI-generated content, digital ethics, and misinformation detection.
An AI Debate Challenge, providing a platform for persuasive discourse on the role of human judgment in an AI-driven world.

These activities were designed to strengthen practical competencies—verifying sources, identifying AI-generated content, and reflecting on digital ethics—anchored on the MIL framework of Access, Evaluation, Creation, and Action. The events were facilitated by the CTE students, the Mentor’s Society, and the CTE faculty members headed by Dr. Juvy Baso, CTE Dean.

Reinforcing CCDC’s dedication to holistic and values-based education, the initiative aligns with several Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs):

SDG 4 – Quality Education: Promoting inclusive and lifelong learning opportunities.
SDG 9 – Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure: Encouraging responsible innovation and digital literacy.
SDG 16 – Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions: Fostering transparency and ethical digital engagement.
SDG 17 – Partnerships for the Goals: Strengthening collaboration among educators, students, and global networks.

The celebration concluded with a Recognition Ceremony and a Pledge to Responsible Digital Citizenship, reaffirming CCDC’s vision of nurturing empowered learners who navigate digital spaces with awareness, creativity, and integrity. Through this meaningful observance, CCDC continues to champion media and information literacy as a cornerstone of quality education, preparing students not only for academic success but for thoughtful, ethical participation in a rapidly evolving digital world.

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Celebrating Student Research Excellence Through the 1st CCDC Research Colloquium

On March 14, 2025, the Research and Quality Assurance Office conducted the 1st CCDC Research Colloquium at the Senior High Hall of Cordillera Career Development College with the theme “Grassroots to Global: Excellence Across Disciplines”. This event highlighted the importance of research utilization in real-world settings, and provided an avenue for students to practice and improve their skills and self-confidence in research presentation and defense. Faculty and students from the various departments witnessed as the aspiring researchers from the different departments of CCDC presented their remarkable undergraduate research papers.

An esteemed panel of judges were invited to assess the groups’ presentations and pose challenging questions. The judging panel consisted of Dr. Michael T. Sebullen (Director of Research of Baguio Central University), Ma’am Jessica Balag-ey, MAed (Research Development and Extension Director of Easter College Inc.), and Ma’am Beca May P. Palitayan, MSCJ (OIC Dean of the College of Criminal Justice Education of Baguio Central University).

The program, hosted by Sir Dennis Guiniguin, began with a doxology led by the CCDC Glee Club. Atty. Abigail T. Bersamin delivered the opening remarks. Dr. Corazon L. Ocden presented the activity rationale and introduced the judges, while Ma’am Sharon Lictao laid out the criteria for judging. After all the preliminaries were completed, the research colloquium began.

A total of eight groups participated in the colloquium, with one group from the College of Health Education (CHE), one group from the College of Business Education and Administration (CBEA), three groups from the College of Accountancy (COA), and three groups from the College of Criminal Justice Education (CCJE). The following titles were presented:

Paper 1: “Parental Perspectives on The Use of Herbal Medicines”

Paper 2: “Implementation of Comprehensive Solid Waste Management in La Trinidad Benguet by Restaurant Owners”

Paper 3:“Effectiveness of Accounting Software in Learning Accounting Courses”

Paper 4: “Effectiveness in the Conduct in Marketing Mix in Maintaining the Competitiveness in Business”

Paper 5: “Factors Contributing to The Success of Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises in Pico, LTB”

Paper 6: “Tourism’s Double-Edged Sword: Unveiling The Link Between Tourism Growth and Local Crime Rates”

Paper 7: “Unveiling The Contributing Elements of Academic Struggles in the First Year of College: Insights from CCDC First Year Criminology Students”

Paper 8: “Lived Experiences of The Graduates Of Penal Institution With Over Ten Years Behind Bars On Community Reintegration.”

The first four groups presented their papers and answered questions from the panel. Then, the CCDC Glee Club returned to perform a wonderful intermission number. With nerves that were hopefully soothed, the last four groups went up next. The half-day event concluded with an awarding ceremony for the judges and winners. For the Best Research Paper category, 3rd place went to Paper 8 from CCJE, 2nd place was awarded to Paper 3 from COA, and the winning paper was Paper 5 from COA. Meanwhile, the Best Oral Presentation category was won by Paper 8 from CCJE, with Paper 5 from COA getting 2nd, and Paper 2 from COA garnering 3rd. After all the awards had been given, Sir Lourence Miguel led the closing prayer to finish the event. As CCDC ventures further into creating more meaningful research projects, may the students continue to let their creativity and ingenuity thrive. Here’s to the next Research Colloquium!

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Building Human Rights Advocates: CCDC Participates in Barangay Human Rights Orientation

The Cordillera Career Development College (CCDC) continues to uphold its commitment to community service and human rights education as it participated in the Orientation of Barangay Human Rights Action Team (BHRAcT) held on October 22 – 24, 2025 at Strawberry Valley Hotel and Restaurant, Swamp, Betag, La Trinidad, Benguet.

Rosaria M. Pes-oyen, Principal of CCDC’s Basic Education Department, served as on of the resource speakers during the three-day orientation. She delivered a presentation on the “Roles and Responsibilities of the Barangay Human Rights Action Team,” emphasizing the crucial function of BHRAcT members as frontline defenders of human rights in their respective communities.

Mrs. Pes-oyen highlighted that BHRAcT members play a key role in receiving and referring complaints of human rights violations, assisting victims in accessing justice, and promoting awareness and education on human rights issues. She also encouraged stronger collaboration among local units, schools, and civic organizations to build communities grounded in respect, equality, and justice.

The orientation aimed to enhance the participants’ capacity to address human rights concerns at the grassroots level and to empower barangay leaders to serves as advocates for equality, justice, and peace. The event also provided a platform for shared learning partnership between the public and private sectors in advancing community-based human rights initiatives.

CCDC’s involvement in the activity reflects its enduring commitment to community development, social responsibility, and the promotion of human rights education. This advocacy supports several United Nation Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly:

SDG 4 – Quality Education, by promoting learning that fosters for human rights and active citizenship;
SDG 16 – Peace, Jusitce, and Strong Institutions, by strengthening local mechanisms for justice and human rights protection; and
SDG 17 – Partnership for the Goals, by building collaborative networks between educational institutions and community stakeholders.

Through these initiatives, CCDC continues to uphold its mission of education with a purpose – empowering individuals and communities to create a society grounded in dignity, equality, and respect for all.

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Fostering Inquiry, Innovation & Impact: CCDC Reinforces Its Mission with 2nd Research Colloquium

In pursuit of its mission to cultivate socially responsive, research-oriented graduates committed to both local and global transformation, Cordillera Career Development College held its 2nd Research Colloquium on October 10, 2025, at Iyaman Hall. Anchored on the theme “Grassroots to Global: Excellence Across Disciplines,” the event powerfully expressed the institution’s dedication to fostering authentic inquiry, innovation, and community-rooted researches.

The colloquium offered a vibrant platform for students to actualize the mission’s call: to integrate critical scholarship with social relevance. Across three presentation sessions, twelve student groups presented their completed research studies, followed by engaging question-and-answer exchanges that invited deeper reflection, constructive challenge, and intellectual growth.

Their research topics spanned numerous domains—mental health support, pedagogical strategies, food science, social work pathways, caregiving experiences, substance use, residential safety, and corporate-community relations. The full list of papers included:

A Descriptive Analysis of the Utilization of Psychosocial Support and Its Perceived Effectiveness on the Mental Health of 4th-Year College Students of CCDC
Coping Mechanism of Nursing Students in Their Graveyard Shift in Related Learning Experience (RLE)
Level of Impact of Different Factors on the Academic Performance of Nursing Students
Effectiveness of Digital Gamification Strategy in Teaching Mathematics
Acceptability and Physico-Chemical Properties of Watercress-Flavored Puto
Exploring the Role of Quipper in Facilitating Blended Learning
Exploring the Lived Experience of Single Fathers in Raising their Children
Journey Towards Registered Social Worker: Understanding Challenges by Social Work Practitioners
Lived Experience of Informal Caregivers of Patients with Chronic Kidney Disease
Exploring Alcohol Consumption Among Third Year CCDC Criminology Students: Patterns, Motives, and Its Negative Impacts
Assessing Safety and Security Measures in Apartments and Boarding Houses of CCDC
Grievances Management of Mining Corporation in Barangay Itogon, Benguet

The evaluative panel guiding the event comprised distinguished external scholars: Michael Sebullen, CRS, PhD (Research Director, Baguio Central University), Jessica Balag-ey, MAEd (Research Development and Extension Director, Easter College), and Judelyn Alones, MA ESL (Instructor, Benguet State University). They offered insightful commentary, evaluating alignment to community needs, methodological rigor, presentation clarity, and potential impact. Certificates of appreciation were presented to the panel by Atty. Annabelle B. Gondales (Vice President for Administration) and Sherry Junette M. Tagle, PhD (President).

In recognition of exemplary inquiry and practice, the paper “Grievances Management of Mining Corporation in Barangay Itogon, Benguet” from the College of Criminal Justice Education was awarded Best Paper, and its presenters received the distinction of Best Presenter—honoring the study’s clarity, relevance, and methodological depth. All presenting students were likewise recognized and certificates were conferred.

By weaving mission-driven research, external partnerships, and student development into this single event, CCDC reaffirmed its vision: turning inquiry into action, elevating community voices, and cultivating graduates who make meaningful social contributions. Aligned with SDG 4 (Quality Education), SDG 9 (Innovation & Infrastructure), and SDG 17 (Partnerships for the Goals), the colloquium embodied the institution’s intent to anchor student scholarship in both local insight and global relevance.

Looking forward, CCDC plans to extend the reach of future colloquia, deepen partnerships with other institutions, widen the diversity of research foci, and more fully integrate mission, scholarship, and community engagement in every student’s experience.

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Forging Stronger Academic Ties: BSU-CTE and CCDC Strengthen Partnership Through Collaborative Agreement

The Benguet State University – College of Teacher Education (BSU-CTE) and the Cordillera Career Development College (CCDC) – Graduate School and College of Teacher Education have solidified an academic alliance aimed at enhancing instruction, research, and extension programs. This partnership was formally established through the signing of a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) on October 16, 2025, highlighting both institutions shared dedication to elevating the quality of education in the Cordillera region through meaningful collaboration and knowledge exchange.

Through this agreement, the two institutions commit to pursuing joint research projects, scholarly collaborations, and coordinated outreach efforts. These initiatives may include co-authored studies, community-based engagements, and the introduction of innovative teaching strategies—all intended to respond to local educational needs and support sustainable regional development.

This strategic partnership represents a significant milestone in the ongoing pursuit of excellence in teacher education. By aligning their visions and combining their strengths, BSU-CTE and CCDC seek to advance the standards of teaching, scholarship, and public service across and beyond the Cordillera Administrative Region.

This partnership directly supports the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), especially Goal 4: Quality Education, by promoting inclusive, equitable, and quality education through joint initiatives. Additionally, it contributes to Goal 17: Partnerships for the Goals by fostering multi-institutional cooperation to mobilize knowledge, expertise, and resources—strengthening regional capacity to meet educational and community development challenges As implementation begins, both institutions aspire to serve as a model for inter-institutional cooperation—demonstrating how higher education institutions can work collectively to address contemporary educational challenges while remaining deeply rooted in service, academic integrity, and the global agenda for sustainable development.

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Together for Literacy

It’s official! The Cordillera Career Development College (CCDC) proudly launched once again its partnership with Puguis Elementary School through the renewal of the Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) and the conduct of the initial planning for the continuation of Project ALISTO (Alleviating Learners Interest in Reading by Strengthening Techniques to Achieve Desired Outcomes). During the event, PES Principal, Dr. Regina D. Sarmiento expressed her heartfelt gratitude to CCDC for its continuous support and unwavering dedication to the literacy development of PES learners. She highlighted the positive impact of the reading tutorials conducted by CCDC’s pre-service teachers, which have greatly helped improve students’ reading skills. In response, Dr. Sherry Junette M. Tagle expressed her appreciation to Puguis Elementary School for opening its doors to the College of Teacher Education (CTE) students, emphasizing that PES provides a valuable avenue for future educators to learn beyond the four walls of the classroom. The renewed partnership stands as a testament to both institutions shared commitment to quality education (SDG 4) and partnership for goals (SDG 17).

Puguis Elementary School Representatives:

BERNADETTE M. ISONG – Project ALISTO Proponent

MARLENE O. NABOYE – Project ALISTO Proponent

CORAZON A. SALABAT – Project ALISTO Proponent

NEILYN F. PAGEDPED – Project ALISTO Proponent

CCDC Representatives:

DR. JUVY O. BASO – Dean, CTE

DR. ARLENE L. PALASICO – BSED English Program Coordinator & Research Coordinator

MARFRELYN H. ANGYATAO – BTLED Program Coordinator

LAURENCE L. ABLAZA – BSED Social Science Program Coordinator

JEFF ABANAG – BSED Math Program Coordinator

BLISS T. BACACAO – CTE Extension Coordinator

SHARON I. LICTAO – Adviser, Mentor’s Society

ROSARIA M. PES-OYEN – Community Extension and Services Coordinator

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MIND MATTERS: NAVIGATING MENTAL HEALTH IN CCDC COMMUNITY: November 14-15, 2024

Day 1, the “Mind Matters” seminar at Iyaman Hall had 451 students from various departments. Ma’am Irene T. Alcantara, the resource speaker, discussed the challenges youth face today, highlighting common pressures and struggles. She also talked about the traits of a mentally healthy individual, providing valuable advice on achieving balance and resilience. Additionally, she introduced the PERMA MODEL—a framework for well-being that students can use in their daily lives to enhance personal growth and happiness.

Day 2, featured booth visitations, where different departments set up booths to welcome and assist students. Booth 1, “Pop Your Stress,” was facilitated by Criminology interns. Booth 2, “Kumustahan Booth,” was managed by Social Work students. Booth 3, “Elevate Booth,” was facilitated by Mr. and Mrs. Ballesteros. Booth 4, “Post-It,” was hosted by students from the College of Business Administration and College of Accountancy. Booth 5, “Life is Colorful,” was run by College of Teacher Education students. Booth 6, “Paint Your Story,” was facilitated by College of Nursing students. Booth 7, “Mindfulness Card,” was managed by Midwifery students, and Booth 8, “Price and Reflection,” was facilitated by Criminology interns. This milestone event significantly raised mental health awareness within the Cordillera Career Development College community, fostering resilience and understanding for a more supportive future.

CHANGING THE NARRATIVE ON SUICIDE: START THE CONVERSATION: September 28 and October 2, 2024

The activity brought together various college departments and was facilitated by Mr. and Mrs. Ballesteros from Elevate, with valuable support from the Admirals Peer Facilitators.

The triennial theme for World Suicide Prevention Day (2024–2026), “Changing the Narrative on Suicide,” is paired with the call to action “Start the Conversation.” This theme highlights the importance of breaking the stigma surrounding suicide by encouraging open dialogue and raising awareness. It advocates for a transformative shift from a culture of silence and judgment to one of understanding, compassion, and active support.