Jenny Felix – Page 2 – Cordillera Career Development College

CCDC Joins CHED-CAR’s Culminating Activity for the 18-Day Campaign to End Violence Against Women

The Cordillera Career Development College (CCDC), through its College of Law Community Legal Aid Center, took part in the Commission on Higher Education–CAR’s culminating activity for the 18-Day Campaign to End Violence Against Women held on December 15, 2025.

Representing the institution was Mr. Roderick Nierva, a law student practitioner from the CCDC College of Law, who delivered an informative discussion on three laws that safeguard women and children: Republic Act No. 9262 (Anti-Violence Against Women and Their Children Act), Republic Act No. 7877 (Anti-Sexual Harassment Act), and Republic Act No. 11313 (Safe Spaces Act). His presentation aimed to deepen public understanding of legal protections and empower CHED-CAR employees to recognize and respond to gender-based violence.

Joining him was Atty. Abigail Bersamin, Vice President for Academic Affairs, who served as the supervising lawyer for the engagement. Their participation highlighted the institution’s dedication to community legal education and its active role in supporting national efforts to eliminate violence

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CCDC Joins the 2025 PHILED Conference: Changing the Narrative of Philippine Education by Making Reforms Work

CCDC proudly highlights its active participation in the 2025 PHILED Conference, held on December 3–4, 2025 at the SMX Convention Center in Pasay City. With the theme “Changing the Narrative of Philippine Education by Making Reforms Work,” this national gathering convened educators, policymakers, and school leaders committed to driving meaningful and forward-looking reforms across the Philippine education landscape.

Representing the institution were Melvin B. Ngayaan, Serafin A. Padio-an, Jaypee D. Camolo, Beverly M. Milo and Rosaria M. Pes-oyen, who actively participated in the plenary sessions, breakout discussions, and collaborative workshops. Their engagement demonstrated our school’s commitment to educational innovation and continuous improvement.

Across two days, the conference featured compelling sessions that explored both the current state and the future direction of Philippine education. Key presentations included:

The State of Philippine Education: Reforms and Opportunities
Delivered by Hon. Juan Edgardo M. Angara, this session presented a comprehensive overview of the country’s education system—examining its present challenges, ongoing reforms, and emerging opportunities to strengthen learning delivery, school governance, and policy implementation.

Education Policy and Futures Thinking: Emerging Trends and Opportunities for the Philippine Education
Presented by Dr. Adrian Kuah, this session emphasized the importance of futures thinking in crafting education policies. Participants were introduced to global trends, strategic foresight tools, and innovative policy directions aimed at building a future-ready Philippine education system.

These discussions provided the delegates with valuable insights that will help the institution align with evolving national policies, anticipate educational shifts, and implement reforms that deliver long-term, positive impact on student learning.

Further, CCDC’s participation in the PHILED Conference directly supports SDG 4: Quality Education, which promotes equitable, inclusive, and high-quality learning for all. By joining national conversations on reforms and future policy directions, CCDC reaffirms its dedication to educational excellence and its commitment to aligning institutional initiatives with both national priorities and global development goals.

Basic Education Elementary Department Strengthens Advocacy and Awareness Through Infographics, Poster Making, and NutriQuiz Activities

In the Month of November, the CCDC Basic Education Department recently carried out a series of advocacy-driven activities aimed at promoting awareness, creativity, and responsible decision-making among learners. These initiatives included the Infographics Contest, Poster Making Contests, and the NutriQuiz, each designed to enhance students’ understanding of important social and health issues.

The Infographics Contest, held under the theme “Drug Abuse Prevention and Control (DAPC),” invited students to convert factual information on drug prevention into concise, visually compelling presentations. Representatives Jett Andrie L. Salbino and Saphira Klea Hailee B. Bolas a grade 3 students produced entries that demonstrated strong digital literacy and an ability to communicate advocacy messages effectively. This activity was organized by the La Trinidad Municipal Social Welfare and Development Office (MSWD), underscoring the municipal government’s support for youth-focused prevention programs.

Two separate Poster Making Contests were also held. The first organized by the Municipal Social Welfare and Development Office, centered on the theme “OSAEC–CSAEM Wakasan: Kaligtasan at Karapatan ng Bata, Ipaglaban,” highlighting the importance of protecting children from online abuse and exploitation. Representing this category was a grade 5 student, Leema Shanum A. Manis, whose artwork emphasized child rights and digital safety. The activity also featured a recital presentation by Faith D. Payang a grade 5 student, who delivered a meaningful interpretation aligned with the same advocacy.

A second poster-making entry, organized by the La Trinidad Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (DRRMC), focused on Disaster Risk Reduction and Management (DRRMC), showcased the creativity and awareness of Princess W. Bandao a grade 6 student, who visually expressed the importance of preparedness and community resilience.

To further reinforce Health education, the La Trinidad Municipal Health Office held the annual NutriQuiz, an interactive competition designed to assess students’ knowledge of nutrition, healthy eating habits, and overall wellness. This year’s participants are grade 6 students included Princess W. Bandao and Alyshialyhn Jaira Cadangen, who both demonstrated commendable enthusiasm and understanding of the subject matter.

These activities reflect the Basic Education Elementary Department’s holistic approach to student development: nurturing learners who are academically capable, socially aware, and health-literate. The department extends its appreciation to the students, teachers, parents, and partner offices whose contributions ensured the success of these initiatives. In particular, the collaboration with the La Trinidad MSWD, DRRMC, and the Municipal Health Office highlights the value of coordinated community efforts in advancing child protection, public health, and disaster preparedness education.

The department remains committed to sustaining and expanding such advocacy-driven programs that empower young people to become informed, responsible, and resilient members of their communities.

ʙᴇɴᴄʜᴍᴀʀᴋɪɴɢ ᴠɪꜱɪᴛ ꜱᴛʀᴇɴɢᴛʜᴇɴꜱ ᴍᴜᴛᴜᴀʟ ʟᴇᴀʀɴɪɴɢ ʙᴇᴛᴡᴇᴇɴ ᴄᴄᴅᴄ ᴀɴᴅ ᴄᴘᴜ ᴏꜰ ɪʟᴏɪʟᴏ ᴄɪᴛʏ

The Social Work Department of the Cordillera Career Development College (CCDC) conducted a formal benchmarking visit on November 29, 2025, at Central Philippine University (CPU) in Iloilo City. This activity was held a day after the 51st NASWEI Biennial Convention and the JSWAP National Leaders’ Assembly/Conference, which the faculty and students respectively attended. Beyond gathering information, the benchmarking served as a collaborative exchange that enabled both institutions to share best practices, institutional strengths, and innovations in social work education.

The CCDC delegation was composed of Dean Melody Calpase-Ducat, Kimberlyn M. Valdez, and Aelline G. Carame, along with student representatives, Hannah Gweneth Busay and Camile Ventura. They were warmly received by CPU Social Work Department members led by Department Chairperson Kareen Lozada and faculty member Ms. Ella Contreras, who facilitated the discussions and campus tour.

CPU, a respected institution with 120 years of educational history, presented an overview of its long-standing academic excellence and its robust quality assurance mechanisms. Of particular significance is CPU’s PAASCU Level III accreditation for several of its programs, including the Social Work program—an affirmation of its sustained commitment to high academic standards, institutional effectiveness, and continuous quality improvement.

During the benchmarking dialogue, CPU shared key institutional practices involving curriculum implementation, research advancement, field instruction supervision, student formation, and community engagement. The team also emphasized their organizational culture, support structures, and well-established partnerships with agencies across various sectors, further highlighting the strengths of their Social Work program.

In reciprocation, the CCDC Social Work faculty presented several good practices and ongoing initiatives within the department. These included academic enrichment activities, student-led programs, community-based engagements, and faculty development efforts. The CCDC delegation also shared updates on the College’s growing involvement in international recognitions and ranking frameworks, such as WURI (World’s Universities with Real Impact), UI GreenMetric, and other global assessments that underscore innovation, sustainability, and social responsibility. This exchange fostered insightful conversations on how international benchmarks can inform and elevate local educational standards and institutional direction.

The visit extended beyond formal discussions, as CPU representatives graciously toured the CCDC group around notable areas of the campus. This enabled the visitors to appreciate CPU’s learning environment, historical landmarks, and institutional culture—further enriching the overall benchmarking experience.

In summary, the activity underscored the value of reciprocal learning and inter-institutional collaboration. Both CCDC and CPU benefited from shared insights, reflective discussions, and the exchange of innovative practices that help strengthen the quality of social work education in the Philippines. The November 29 benchmarking visit stands as a meaningful milestone for the CCDC Social Work Department, offering guidance for future improvements in curriculum development, accreditation efforts, research advancement, and student development. Moreover, it opened pathways for potential long-term partnership and academic cooperation between the two institutions.By: Kimberlyn M. Valdez
Photos from: Ms. Kareen Lozada (CPU SW Department Chairperson)

“𝓢𝓽𝓻𝓮𝓼𝓼 𝓲𝓼 𝓪 𝓢𝓲𝓰𝓷𝓪𝓵 𝓽𝓸 𝓢𝓵𝓸𝔀 𝓓𝓸𝔀𝓷, 𝓝𝓞𝓣 𝓪 𝓼𝓲𝓰𝓷 𝓽𝓸 𝓴𝓮𝓮𝓹 𝓹𝓾𝓼𝓱𝓲𝓷𝓰 𝓾𝓷𝓽𝓲𝓵 𝔂𝓸𝓾 𝓑𝓻𝓮𝓪𝓴.”

Many students struggle to balance their academic tasks, personal responsibilities, and daily challenges. With all these pressures, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. To help students better understand and manage these experiences, the Social Work Major Circle (SWMC) officers facilitated and organized a seminar titled “Mind in Balance: A Seminar on Caring for Your Mental Health and Coping with Stress.” The activity was conducted on November 24, 2025, at the Iyaman Hall, Dakilan Building, Cordillera Career Development College (CCDC).

A total of 173 students from first-year to third-year levels participated in the event. Two guest speakers from the Philippine Mental Health Association – Cordillera Chapter served as resource persons.

The first speaker, Ms. Dully Mae B. Calicdan, a licensed psychometrician and Program Relations Officer, discussed practical ways to care for one’s mental health. She highlighted the importance of regulating emotions, recognizing early signs of stress, seeking professional help when needed, and building healthy coping habits.

The second speaker, Ms. Catherine Mae A. Empleo, also a licensed psychometrician and EAD-PRO, focused on understanding stress and responding to it effectively. She shared helpful insights on identifying stress triggers, practicing healthy coping strategies, managing time wisely, seeking support from others, and maintaining self-care to build resilience. Ms. Empleo reminded everyone that stress often builds up slowly—and even small problems can affect our well-being. This is why dealing with stress early on and breaking tasks into manageable steps can make a big difference, instead of ignoring them until they become too heavy.

After the talks, students joined a short activity where they wrote positive messages or inspirational quotes. These were collected, mixed, and randomly redistributed. Volunteers then read their messages aloud, filling the room with encouragement and creating an atmosphere of support.

To all students, remember this: challenges will always be part of life, and sometimes they will feel too much. But every time we choose to face stress with courage, self-awareness, and healthy habits, we grow stronger. By taking care of ourselves—mind, body, and emotions—we become more prepared to handle whatever comes our way.

In moments of pressure, pause, breathe, and choose to take care of yourself—because your well-being is your greatest strength.

By: Ms. Camile A. Ventura, SWMC Vice Governor

Photo Layout by: Jhulie N. Alangwawi, SWMC Vice Mayor

Bridging Hope: RRCY-CAR and CCDC-CTE Forge Partnership to Empower Literacy for Children in Conflict with the Law

“Education is non-negotiable. Let us not deny them their basic right. If we are able to transform even one child through education, then that would already be a great achievement.”

These powerful words from Rojhelea An Marie Claur, Center Head of the Regional Rehabilitation Center for Youth (RRCY–CAR), echo the global call of Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 4: Quality Education, emphasizing that inclusive and equitable learning opportunities must extend to all—especially to children in conflict with the law who are among the most vulnerable.

With this vision, RRCY–CAR partnered with the College of Teacher Education (CTE) of the Cordillera Career Development College (CCDC) to uplift academic literacy and enhance the learning confidence of the youth under its care. This initiative also strongly supports SDG 10: Reduced Inequalities, as it bridges learning gaps and ensures that marginalized learners are not left behind.

On December 10, 2025, an orientation was conducted by Jaypee M. Nuñez, Center Nurse of RRCY–CAR. Present during the activity were Dr. Juvy O. Baso, Dean of CTE; Dr. Arlene A. Palasico, Program Coordinator for BSED English and General Education Language; Jeff J. Abanag, Program Coordinator for BSED Mathematics and General Education Math; Marfrelyn Angyatao, Program Coordinator for BTLED and General Education TLE; Laurence L. Ablaza, Program Coordinator for Social Studies and General Education Social Studies; and Madel L. Telesforo, CTE Office Assistant, along with the participating pre-service teachers. Their active participation underscores SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals, demonstrating how strong collaboration between government institutions and educational organizations can foster meaningful and sustainable social impact.

This collaboration marks the first deployment of CTE pre-service teachers to RRCY–CAR for internship, a pioneering step toward community-rooted, inclusive education. Prior to their deployment, the pre-service teachers underwent a comprehensive orientation facilitated by Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) personnel from the regional office in Baguio City. This preparation ensures they are equipped with the proper approaches, sensitivity, and protocols needed when working with children in conflict with the law—further contributing to SDG 16: Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions, which advocates for the protection and rehabilitation of vulnerable youth.

This initiative is under the L.I.G.H.T (Literacy Integration and Guided Holistic Tutoring) Program, a transformative learning designed to support both the academic and personal development of Children in Conflict with the Law (CICL) housed at the DSWD–Regional Rehabilitation Center for Youth, and in line with CCDC’s curriculum-based community engagements. The L.I.G.H.T Program reinforces the partnership’s commitment to providing meaningful, compassionate, and rights-based education for every learner.

Apalasico/2025

“Cordillera Career Development College: Academic Partner for Universal Health Care, Awarded at Gawad Kalusugan 2025”

Baguio City, Philippines — October 29, 2025. Cordillera Career Development College (CCDC) was among the distinguished awardees at the prestigious Gawad Kalusugan 2025, held in Baguio City. The event, organized by the Department of Health – Cordillera Administrative Region, celebrated outstanding contributions to public health leadership and governance across the region.

The Gawad Kalusugan 2025 backdrop set the tone for a vibrant and meaningful ceremony, adorned with indigenous motifs, floral arrangements, and woven baskets that reflected the rich cultural heritage of the Cordillera. Amid this festive atmosphere, CCDC representatives received a Certificate of Appreciation recognizing the institution’s unwavering commitment as an Academic Partner in the Municipal Leadership Development Program (MLDP).

Dr. Amelita M. Panglinan, Regional Director of DOH-CAR, personally signed the certificate and commended CCDC’s role in shaping responsive and accountable health governance. The award citation highlighted CCDC’s “invaluable contribution and steadfast support in promoting leadership and governance in the health sector.” Through its academic partnership, the college played a pivotal role in building the capacities of local health leaders, strengthening municipal health systems, and advancing the goals of Universal Health Care in the region. This recognition follows years of collaborative engagement between CCDC and the Department of Health, where the college provided technical expertise, training support, and institutional leadership to empower municipal health officers and stakeholders.

Captured in one of the event’s photographs, CCDC Dean of the College of Health Education, Marivel D. Muñoz, and Principal of Midwifery, Marie Fe E. Kidatan, stood proudly before the Gawad Kalusugan 2025 backdrop, holding the certificate that symbolizes the college’s impact. The image reflects not only institutional achievement but also the spirit of community, resilience, and shared purpose that defines health leadership in the Cordillera.

As CCDC continues to champion educational excellence and community engagement, this award affirms its place as a transformative force in regional development. The college remains committed to nurturing future leaders—not only in health but across sectors—who embody integrity, innovation, and service.

Unified for Progress: JSWAP National Leaders’ Assembly Conducted Concurrently with the 51st NASWEI Convention

The Junior Social Workers Association of the Philippines (JSWAP) National organized a significant leadership-building event crafted specifically for student leaders from colleges of social work across the country. Held at the Uswag Nutrition Center in Iloilo City, the activity brought together over 100 passionate social work students who shared a collective commitment to advocacy, leadership, and social transformation. Representing CCDC were Ms. Hannah Gweneth M. Busay and Ms. Camile A. Ventura, who proudly joined delegates from various regions of the Philippines.

This JSWAP event was conducted synchronously with the 51st NASWEI Biennial Convention, where the CCDC Social Work faculty were simultaneously attending the convention and professional development engagements. The parallel conduct of these events allowed both faculty and students to participate in national-level activities that strengthened their competencies and broadened their perspectives on leadership and social work education.

One of the major undertakings of the JSWAP assembly was the drafting of the JSWAP National Constitution and By-Laws. This collaborative effort aimed to provide a unified framework that would guide the organization’s leadership, advocacy initiatives, and collective direction. By contributing their voices and insights, participants developed a deeper sense of ownership and responsibility toward strengthening the national student social work community.

The program opened with inspiring remarks from Councilor Hon. Alan Zaldivar, RSW, who encouraged the participants to embrace their identities as future changemakers in the helping profession. His message emphasized the importance of grounded leadership, compassion, and service-oriented action.

A highlight of the event was the lecture delivered by Mr. Aaron Kim Gil, titled “Future Leaders of the Helping Profession: Skills for the Next Generation.” He emphasized that while passion and compassion are essential, emerging social workers must also equip themselves with critical thinking skills, professional competence, ethical grounding, and strategic approaches to community engagement. His talk motivated students to pursue continuous personal and professional growth.

A solidarity and networking activity followed, encouraging students from different institutions to interact, share experiences, and learn from one another. This created a meaningful space for connection, reflection, and shared learning—strengthening camaraderie among future practitioners.

Due to varying travel schedules, the event concluded with the distribution of tokens and certificates to the participants, acknowledging their involvement and contributions to the national assembly.

The CCDC student delegates expressed their deep gratitude for being chosen to represent their institution and for having the opportunity to engage with fellow student leaders from across the country. Although some expectations were not fully met, they highlighted that the experience allowed them to reflect, connect, and learn from student leaders representing different social work programs nationwide. They valued the insights gained, the friendships formed, and the renewed commitment to the social work profession.

Overall, the JSWAP National Leaders’ Assembly enriched the participants’ understanding of leadership, strengthened their professional identity, and reinforced their dedication to becoming compassionate, competent, and community-centered social workers.

By:

Hannah Gweneth M. Busay (SW 3^{^rd} year Students)

Camile A. Ventura (SW 3^{^rd} year Students

Kimberlyn M. Valdez