CCDC conducts law orientation program to members in Tublay

Law student practitioners of Cordillera Career Development College (CCDC), together with their professor and supervising lawyer, retired judge Adolfo R. Malingan as the resource speaker, provided an orientation lecture to the barangay chairman and lupon members of Tublay Central, Tublay, Benguet on November 17, 2023. This program is in line with the objective of the CCDC Community Legal Aid Center of bringing legal services nearer to the people.

The Barangay Justice System, also known as the Katarungang Pambarangay, provides an alternative mode of dispute resolution to the costly and lengthy process of settling disputes in regular courts. Instead of going through the very technical procedure of filing formal pleadings and presenting evidence in courts, the parties of a dispute are given the opportunity to try and talk to each other and resolve their disputes amicably. 

This activity was conceived considering the recently concluded Barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan elections and upon the request of the proponents in the Barangay Local Government Unit of Tublay Central, Tublay, Benguet. There is a need to conduct an orientation of the law, especially the conciliation proceedings in order to capacitate the implementers with enhanced knowledge and clarify issues and matters as regards the Katarungang Pambarangay Law. 

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Breaking Barriers Through Education

In the quiet, hardworking communities scattered across the Cordillera Administrative Region (CAR), young students harbor dreams of a brighter future. These aspirations often seem distant for families where parents are farmers, farm workers, and laborers. 

Yet, these students’ hopes remain alive, anchored by a simple yet profound belief in the transformative power of education. This belief forms the foundation of Cordillera Career Development College’s mission: to open doors for those from underserved communities and, in doing so, contribute to our commitment in Sustainable Development Goal 1—No Poverty.

Student Demographics

Our data reveals a story of resilience. In the 2023 college of law graduate school enrolment, 61% of students come from 3rd class municipalities, reflecting communities with limited resources and lower incomes where ambition thrives despite economic challenges. Thirty-two percent come from 1st class municipalities while four percent come from 6th class towns, and three percent from 2nd class towns. 

Municipality classification serves as an effective gauge of income because it reflects the economic profile of a locality. First-class municipalities enjoy higher revenues and are generally more affluent, while the 3rd to 6th class municipalities, usually rural and agriculturally dependent, face constraints in resources, public services, and economic opportunities. 

For CCDC, this classification serves as a window into the students’ socioeconomic backgrounds. It’s not easy for students from these lower-income communities to take on the challenge of higher education, and we recognize the determination it takes for them to do so.

Behind each statistic is a story, and the stories of many of our students have common threads. Their parents are the hands that sow, build, and labor, often earning day-to-day incomes with no guarantee of stability.

Farming, and informal labor are the lifelines of families here in the province, yet these jobs rarely provide the security of a regular salary. Farmers face the unpredictability of weather, market prices, and crop yields. 

CCDC’s Role 

When a student from a 6th class municipality completes their education, it impacts more than just their own life. Graduates become role models in the communities, showing others that the journey is possible. 

Their success stories inspire change within their families, friends, and neighbors, spreading hope and determination. In this way, we are not only transforming individual lives but contributing to a broader movement of social and economic upliftment, advancing SDG 1 in a tangible, grassroots manner.

This is the heart of our mission: to champion the dreams of those who aspire to rise above circumstance, to provide a platform for those who might otherwise be overlooked, and to make education a powerful force in the fight against poverty.

Our students’ backgrounds may vary, but their shared ambition to build a better future unites them—and we are honored to be part of their journey. Together, we are working to dismantle the barriers of poverty and create a more equitable world, one graduate at a time.

RELATED: Cordillera Career Development College Supports Indigent Students
https://ccdc.edu.ph/cordillera-career-development-college-supports-indigent-students/

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Education Without Limits: CCDC’s Fight Against Inequality

Cordillera Career Development College (CCDC) is deeply committed to ensuring that higher education is accessible to all, particularly to students from underrepresented and potentially underrepresented groups including ethnic minorities, low-income students, and students with disabilities. Through a range of policies and support programs, CCDC actively tracks applications and admissions from these groups to help ensure that every individual, regardless of their background or personal circumstances, has the opportunity to pursue higher education.

CCDC’s open admission policy is a foundational aspect of its commitment to equity and inclusion. As outlined in the Section 2 of its Student Handbook, the school admits all students who meet the required admission criteria and agree to abide by the institution’s policies, rules, and regulations. This open approach ensures that no student is excluded based on their ethnic background, financial status, gender, disability, or other personal characteristics. For transferee students, the college has established a fair process for evaluating and accepting transfer applications. All transfer applicants must go through an approval process involving the department dean and the registrar to ensure that their academic needs are met and that they are placed in the appropriate academic program.

CCDC is also committed to complying with Republic Act No. 9442, or the Magna Carta for Persons with Disabilities, which protects the rights of persons with disabilities (PWDs) to access education. In line with this, no student with a disability will be denied admission to any program offered by the institution. Special assistance, including priority access to admission services, is available to students with disabilities to ensure that they receive the support they need from the moment they apply. Students with disabilities are encouraged to disclose any specific learning requirements or special needs during the application process. These needs will be assessed on a case-by-case basis, and if CCDC is unable to provide the necessary accommodations, students and their families will be informed in a transparent and respectful manner.

Moreover, CCDC offers various financial support mechanisms to ensure that low-income students have access to higher education. These mechanisms include both internal and external scholarships that help reduce the financial burden of tuition and other educational costs. Some of the key external scholarships available to CCDC students include: Tertiary Education Subsidy (TES) by the Commission on Higher Education (CHED), Tulong Dunong Program (TDP) by CHED, Private Education Student Financial Assistance (PESFA) by CHED, Benguet Provincial Scholars (for students from Benguet), Educational Benefits from companies such as Philex Mining Corporation and Aboitiz Foundation and the DOH Pre-Scholarship Program by the Department of Health. In addition to these external opportunities, CCDC offers a range of internal scholarship programs, including those for academic excellence, sports achievements, sibling discounts, student leadership, and employee dependents. Through these various scholarships and grants, CCDC aims to reduce the financial barriers that many students face, allowing them to focus on their education rather than financial stress.

CCDC’s commitment to diversity and inclusion goes beyond just access to education. The school employs a holistic approach to education by offering various student support programs, including counseling services (Ayowan program), peer mentoring, and academic advising to ensure that every student receives the guidance and support they need throughout their college journey.

Cordillera Career Development College is dedicated to ensuring that no student is left behind regardless of their background, financial situation, or personal challenges. Through its open admission policy, extensive scholarship opportunities, and targeted support for underrepresented groups, educational inequalities are reduced to create a more inclusive, diverse, and equitable learning environment. By providing the necessary resources, support, and opportunities, students are encouraged to pursue their dreams and succeed in their academic and professional careers.

For more information on how to apply for scholarships, financial aid, or admissions, please visit our Admissions Page or contact our Registrar’s Office for personalized assistance.

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CCDC gives All-out Support to Students

More Than Just a Game: Supporting Student Athletes from Low-Income Families by:  Elymar Vea

The roar of the crowd, the thrill of victory, the sting of defeat – these are the hallmarks of collegiate athletics. But for many student athletes, especially those from low-income families, the journey to the playing field is paved with challenges that extend far beyond the realm of sports.

Imagine juggling demanding academic schedules, grueling training regimens, and the constant pressure to perform, all while facing the daunting reality of financial insecurity. This is the reality for countless student athletes who are determined to achieve their dreams, but often struggle to access the resources they need to succeed both on and off the field.

These student athletes are not just statistics; they are individuals with stories that deserve to be heard. Take for example, Cassey Czen A. Tagulao, a dedicated student athlete who shared,

“Being an athlete helps me and my family lessen the burden of financial constraints.”

Their words remind us that sports can be more than just a game for these students. It can be a lifeline, a way to open doors and ease the financial strain on their families.

However, the road to success is not without its obstacles. Many students face the constant worry of affording basic necessities like food, housing, and transportation. The burden of financial stress can really take a toll on their studies and overall well-being. Michael Angelo B. Navarro, raised by a single mother, shared his experience,

“CCDC has specific systems when it comes to improving their players such as constant training, discipline and commitment to the school.”

This validates the importance of institutions providing structured support systems that go beyond athletic training and address the holistic needs of their student athletes.

The dedication of these students is truly inspiring. They understand the value of education and strive to balance their academic pursuits with their athletic commitments. As one student athlete eloquently put it, “Education matters, so that is why we always make sure to balance our academic with our sports. The impact of education is more sustainable compared with being an athlete with it having limitations when one gets old”, Tagulao added. It’s heartwarming to hear how CCDC truly cares about their student athletes. Navarro shared, “Our instructors and administrators are very considerate and passionate about helping us.” It’s clear that this support goes beyond just academics and extends to helping them through tough times. He also shared a sobering reality: “As a player, we’ve been signing waivers in case of emergency, stating that the school isn’t obliged or responsible if we’re injured. But thankfully, when I was injured the school ensured to help me access needed medical care and hospital and other bills were covered by the school’s student insurance.” This story shows how important it is for schools to really look out for their athletes, especially when they’re injured and need help the most.

However, there is always room for improvement. The truth is, many student athletes from low-income families face a lot of challenges, and their needs go beyond what traditional sports programs can offer. This is where we, as a community, must step up. We need to advocate for policies and programs that offer an inclusive range of support for student athletes, helping them with their financial, academic, and social needs. This could include:free or subsidized access to essential resources, mentorship and guidance programs, and financial literacy workshops.

Ultimately, supporting student athletes from low-income families is not just about ensuring their success on the field; it is about investing in their future and empowering them to achieve their full potential. By providing the necessary resources and support, we can help these individuals achieve their dreams and contribute meaningfully to society.

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CLAC: Helping Students Overcome Legal Hurdles

by: Venus K. Camolo

The Cordillera Career Development College (CCDC) Community Legal Assistance Center (CLAC) is more than just a legal aid center; it’s a beacon of hope for students, particularly those from low-income backgrounds. By providing essential legal services, the CLAC empowers students to overcome obstacles and focus on their academic pursuits.

Many students from low-income families face significant challenges that can hinder their academic success. Legal issues, such as family disputes, debt, or housing problems, can consume valuable time and energy, diverting attention from studies. By addressing these legal concerns, the CLAC enables students to focus on their academics, improve mental health, and enhance academic performance. Most of all it helps students build a strong foundation for their future by providing them access to legal support that empowers them to make informed decisions.

In 2023, the CLAC served a total of 77 individuals, including 28 students from the College of Criminal Justice. The center addressed a wide range of legal issues, including:

• Notarization of Simple Affidavits: Assisting with legal document verification.
• Birth Certificate Corrections: Resolving errors or inconsistencies in vital records.
• Family Law Matters: Providing marriage, and child custody.
• Debt and Financial Concerns: Offering advice on debt management and legal remedies.
• Property Disputes: Helping individuals resolve land ownership and boundaries conflicts.

To ensure that students receive the support they need, the CLAC offers:

• Notarial Services: Providing certified legal documents.
• Free Legal Advice and Assistance: Offering expert counsel and guidance.
• Referrals: Connecting clients with private law offices for specialized legal needs.

By providing these vital services, the CLAC is helping students navigate legal complexities and empowering them to reach their full potential. Through its commitment to social justice and student success, the CLAC continues to impact countless individuals’ lives.

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CCDC backs student-led sustainable startup

Recognizing the potential for small businesses to address local poverty, five fourth-year Entrepreneurship students launched the Ma-awis Cafe in January 2023, a start-up cafe that serves as a platform for their future entrepreneurial journey. 

The students funded their start-up through personal contributions and additional financial support from the SSME organization. SSME is an institution focused on empowering budding entrepreneurs, offering initial funding and capability programs that help them establish a stable, scalable business model. 

The name Ma-awis Cafe which translates to “be invited” represents the warmth and cozy atmosphere of the business, inviting customers to unwind and connect. The primary goal of Ma-awis Cafe is to establish a financially and socially sustainable business that can continue to thrive after the students graduate. Through unique, high-quality offerings, the team aims to create a café that attracts customers, builds a strong reputation, and contributes to the economic vitality of the community.

The Ma-awis Cafe objective is to establish a thriving business that can continue to operate even after the students’ graduation. They aim to offer innovative and quality products that will carry the name’s reputation as a unique café. 

By supporting student-led enterprises like Ma-awis Cafe, SSME encourages the responsible use of resources to foster local economic growth and self-sufficiency. 

This collaboration highlights how community investment in start-ups can create sustainable employment opportunities, inject resources into the local economy, and help address poverty in the area. Ma-awis Cafe stands as an example of how targeted financial assistance and community support can empower young entrepreneurs to create lasting social and economic impact.

Visit their Facebook Page at:

https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100088891345559

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Cordillera Career Development College Supports Indigent Students

In a world where education remains one of the most powerful tools for breaking the cycle of poverty, Cordillera Career Development College (CCDC) in  La Trinidad, Benguet, Philippines, stands as a beacon of hope for many underprivileged students in the region. 

CCDC’s profile of its graduates shows that 279 of the total 446 graduates, or 62.56% come from third to fifth class municipalities which largely represent the income and economic status of where they live.  Only 34.53% or 154 graduates come from first class municipalities and only 2.91% come from second class municipalities.

CCDC’s strong scholarship programs and a deep commitment to inclusive education serves as a catalyst for social mobility, giving indigent students from the bottom 20% of household income groups the chance to pursue their dreams and achieve a brighter future.

CCDC has long been dedicated to providing quality and accessible education to all, particularly to those who might not have the financial means to pursue higher education. Recognizing the challenges faced by indigent students in accessing academic resources, the school assists all the students in their application for scholarships such as the Tertiary Education Subsidy (TES), a grant-in-aid program administered by the UniFAST (United Financial Assistance System for Tertiary Education) Board that helps eligible students pay for a portion or all of their tertiary education. Eligible students from the forwarded applications will receive scholarship grants until they are able to graduate. Moreover, the Students Services Office facilitates the submission of requirements for scholars under the Private Education Student Financial Assistance Program (PESFA) every end of the semester. These initiatives were designed to help reduce the burden of educational costs, making it possible for students from marginalized backgrounds to attend school without the constant worry of finances.

At the end of school year 2022-2023, five students express their gratitude to the school and the scholarship programs as they graduate in college through these initiatives. They share their stories on how they were able to pay their tuition fees, allowances, buy gadgets for their online classes, and avail financial assistance for their board examinations. 

Real Stories of Transformation: TES Scholarship Recipients

The impact of financial assistance through scholarships is evident in the words of the recipients themselves. Nelia W. Sumakey, a nursing student whose journey was made possible through the TES Scholarship, has this to say:

“This scholarship has been a great help, especially during the pandemic. It has assisted me in covering my tuition fees and enabled me to continue my studies and prepare for the nursing board exam. Without this support, I wouldn’t be able to graduate as a nurse. I am truly grateful for the chance to pursue my dreams, and I can’t wait to give back to my community in the future.”

Another TES Scholarship recipient, Nora E. Lino, describes the help she received from the program:

“Being selected for the TES Scholarship is an honor. It has helped me cover my tuition fees and the upcoming review for the nursing board exam. Without your help, I would not have been able to pursue my college degree. I am now one step closer to becoming a registered nurse, and I am excited to contribute to my community once I start my career. Thank you for believing in me.”

Chris P. Caday, also expressed thanks for the support as one of the chosen recipients:

“Your generous support has been a great help in achieving my dreams and it truly means a lot to me. I promise to use this opportunity wisely and make the best out of it. This scholarship has encouraged me to keep striving for excellence, and I will be forever grateful. Again, thank you for your unending support.”

Emilyn B. Damoyan shared how the TES Scholarship helped her overcome the challenges of being a working student:

“Growing up in a less fortunate family was truly challenging, but it didn’t stop me from dreaming that someday I would achieve my goals. With my parents, I persevered to pursue high school. I thought I wouldn’t be able to enroll in college because my parents were old and couldn’t afford my tuition. Fortunately, I was chosen as one of the grantees. The scholarship helped cover my tuition and provided the gadgets for online learning during the pandemic. This program inspired and motivated me to continue my studies, and I will be forever grateful. God bless!”

Eden Joy Balang said the TES Scholarship opened up opportunities for her:

“I want to express my sincere gratitude to CHED and CCDC for your support in building a brighter future for students. I am truly grateful for TES as it helped me with my financial needs, including tuition and allowance. It allowed me to open a door and see the future that awaits me. I hope that, one day, I too will be able to contribute to our society by bringing a smile to someone else. I cannot thank you enough for making my dreams more reachable.”

These letters are a testament to the profound impact that scholarships and financial aid can have on a student’s ability to succeed. These scholarships, along with other initiatives from CCDC, are truly empowering, showing that even students grounded on humble backgrounds are able to soar and achieve their seemingly impossible dreams to become future professionals. Truly, poverty is not a hindrance to success when you are at the right place.

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