CCDC Scholarship Distribution for 2023

Total Scholar Distribution:

• First Semester 2023-2024: 3,890 scholars
• Second Semester 2022-2023: 2,129 scholars
• Total scholars supported throughout 2023: 1,381

Notable gender distribution patterns emerged, with female scholars consistently outnumbering their male counterparts. In the Second Semester of SY 2022-2023 (January to May 2023 period), there were 49 female and 33 male recipients. This trend became more pronounced in the August-December 2023 period, with 321 female scholars compared to 195 male scholars, highlighting CHED’s success in promoting educational access across gender lines.

Cordillera Career Development College: A Beacon of Opportunity Through Scholarship Grants

The Cordillera Career Development College (CCDC) has documented a substantial increase in beneficiaries of the CHED Scholarship Program – Tertiary Education Subsidy (TES) during 2023. The government-sponsored program, administered by the Commission on Higher Education (CHED), saw its recipient numbers surge from 82 students in the second semester of 2022-2023 to 426 students in the first semester of 2023-2024.

The Institution stands as a testament to quality education for culturally diverse learners. The college’s mission is to deliver quality education and services through holistic, accessible, and inclusive learning experiences, nurturing culturally sensitive and responsible global citizens and leaders. A key component of this mission is the CCDC’s robust scholarship program, which provides vital financial assistance to students, enabling them to pursue their educational aspirations.

Moreover, these scholarship programs have a profound impact on the lives of students, enabling them to pursue their educational goals without the burden of financial constraints. The program empowers students from diverse backgrounds, including those from low-income families, rural communities, and marginalized groups. By providing access to quality education, CCDC fosters a more equitable and inclusive society, contributing to the development of a skilled and knowledgeable workforce.

The data also reveals a significant gender disparity in the distribution of scholarships. While a higher number of female students received external scholarships, particularly in the CHED programs, male students dominated the internal scholarship categories, such as Student Assistant and Varsity/Sports. This disparity highlights the need for CCDC to implement strategies to promote gender equity in its scholarship program.

Thus, CCDC scholarship program plays a vital role in promoting access to quality education and empowering students from diverse backgrounds. The program’s impact extends beyond individual students, contributing to the development of a more equitable and inclusive society. By analyzing the data and addressing the gender disparity, CCDC can further enhance its scholarship program and ensure that it continues to be a beacon of opportunity for all students.

By addressing the gender disparity and expanding its scholarship program, CCDC can become a powerful catalyst for change in the Cordillera region. The college can empower students from all backgrounds, break down barriers to education, and contribute to the development of a more equitable and inclusive society.

CCDC’s vision is to become “the center of quality education for culturally diverse and global learners.” By embracing this vision and implementing the recommendations outlined above, CCDC can ensure that its scholarship program truly empowers all students, fostering a brighter future for the Cordillera region and beyond.

Cordillera Career Development College: A Beacon of Opportunity Through Scholarship Grants

The Cordillera Career Development College (CCDC) has documented a substantial increase in beneficiaries of the CHED Scholarship Program – Tertiary Education Subsidy (TES) during 2023. The government-sponsored program, administered by the Commission on Higher Education (CHED), saw its recipient numbers surge from 82 students in the second semester of 2022-2023 to 426 students in the first semester of 2023-2024.

The Institution stands as a testament to quality education for culturally diverse learners. The college’s mission is to deliver quality education and services through holistic, accessible, and inclusive learning experiences, nurturing culturally sensitive and responsible global citizens and leaders. A key component of this mission is the CCDC’s robust scholarship program, which provides vital financial assistance to students, enabling them to pursue their educational aspirations.

Moreover, these scholarship programs have a profound impact on the lives of students, enabling them to pursue their educational goals without the burden of financial constraints. The program empowers students from diverse backgrounds, including those from low-income families, rural communities, and marginalized groups. By providing access to quality education, CCDC fosters a more equitable and inclusive society, contributing to the development of a skilled and knowledgeable workforce.

The data also reveals a significant gender disparity in the distribution of scholarships. While a higher number of female students received external scholarships, particularly in the CHED programs, male students dominated the internal scholarship categories, such as Student Assistant and Varsity/Sports. This disparity highlights the need for CCDC to implement strategies to promote gender equity in its scholarship program.

Thus, CCDC scholarship program plays a vital role in promoting access to quality education and empowering students from diverse backgrounds. The program’s impact extends beyond individual students, contributing to the development of a more equitable and inclusive society. By analyzing the data and addressing the gender disparity, CCDC can further enhance its scholarship program and ensure that it continues to be a beacon of opportunity for all students.

By addressing the gender disparity and expanding its scholarship program, CCDC can become a powerful catalyst for change in the Cordillera region. The college can empower students from all backgrounds, break down barriers to education, and contribute to the development of a more equitable and inclusive society. CCDC’s vision is to become “the center of quality education for culturally diverse and global learners.” By embracing this vision and implementing the recommendations outlined above, CCDC can ensure that its scholarship program truly empowers all students, fostering a brighter future for the Cordillera region and beyond.

Deepening CCDC Engagements on Policy Development and Review

Recognizing the significant role of research in policy development and review,  government agencies including local government units and the private sector have strengthened collaborations with higher education institutions like CCDC, to engage them in various research and community-based activities that would help frame relevant policies and provide feedback and evaluation on existing policies and its implementation.

In the same way, the CCDC student research agenda has also been crafted in harmony with the needs of the community, of partner-agencies to ensure research utilization in the fields of social welfare, disaster risk reduction, health care programs, peace and order and education.

As an academic institution, CCDC is also involved in Local Municipal Disaster Risk Reduction Committees, Barangay Drug Abuse Council, Tobacco Control Regulatory Committee, Tourism Council, Provincial Health Committee, Legislative Awareness Council, to name a few.

In July 2023, the CCDC College of Law and the Philippine Earth Justice Center has formalized its partnership to ensure strengthened delivery of legal assistance aligned to protection and enforcement of environmental laws and addressing environmental justice issues in the local communities.

Beyond the Walls of its Halls:  CCDC Ensures Sustainable Livelihood through Financial Literacy with its Partner Communities

By: Mariel H. Buac

In a bid to address poverty through mentorship and training on Entrepreneurship, two recent initiatives by Cordillera Career Development College’s (CCDC) College of Business Education and Administration (CBEA) brought together aspiring entrepreneurs, local business leaders, and community members. The first, led by the Banayakeo Poultry and Basket Weavers Cooperative, focused on practical skill-building in traditional crafts. The second, the widely attended “Sumika Sika Series” seminar, highlighted accessible and inclusive entrepreneurship. Together, these events underscore a growing commitment to empowering individuals through education, cultural preservation, and collaborative growth.

Sumika Sika Series: An Inclusive Entrepreneurial Seminar for Aspiring Business Leaders

Expanding on these community-driven initiatives, CBEA launched the “Sumika Sika Series” seminar on March 23, 2023, as part of CCDC’s Community Extension Service and in celebration of the institution’s 30th anniversary. Held at CCDC’s Tupay-ya Complex and board room, this full-day event was designed to empower individuals from all backgrounds with the foundational skills and knowledge needed to pursue entrepreneurial opportunities. With a turnout of 533 participants—42 in the morning and 491 in the afternoon—the seminar proved highly popular, drawing attendees from across the region and beyond.

The Sumika Sika Series provided attendees with an immersive experience, offering interactive workshops, expert-led discussions, and ample opportunities for networking. Notable speakers included Mr. Rhode Ruzzel Cabatic from the Department of Trade and Industry, Ms. Jamie Beth B. Galian from the Department of Science and Technology, Mr. Kristoffer John T. Oro from Landbank of the Philippines, and local business leaders Ms. Grail Polig and Ms. Kristine Paayas. Each speaker shared insights on topics like financial literacy, digital marketing, and resource management, fostering a supportive environment for learning and growth.

The seminar’s interactive format encouraged dialogue and collaboration, with each session followed by open forums where participants could engage directly with speakers and seek tailored advice for their ventures. Emphasis was placed on networking, with numerous local business owners, CCDC representatives, and budding entrepreneurs forming connections that could extend well beyond the event. The supportive atmosphere allowed attendees to explore potential partnerships, exchange ideas, and discuss common challenges in a communal setting.

The day concluded with a panel discussion featuring local entrepreneurs who shared their personal journeys, emphasizing resilience and the importance of aligning business practices with personal values and community needs. Attendees gave the event an overall rating of 3.9 out of 4, with feedback highlighting the quality of insights provided and the practical advice shared by the experts. Many participants expressed gratitude, particularly for the informative sessions about resources from agencies like DTI and DOST.

Both the Banayakeo workshop and the Sumika Sika Series exemplify CCDC’s commitment to strengthening local economies by equipping community members with the skills and knowledge to turn traditional crafts and innovative ideas into profitable enterprises. By focusing on accessible, practical, and inclusive education, the institution and its partners aim to foster a culture of entrepreneurship that values both cultural heritage and economic innovation.

For individuals interested in learning more or getting involved in future events, CCDC’s Community Extension office encourages them to follow the Cordillera College Facebook page or reach out directly to stay updated on upcoming workshops and seminars. As more events are planned, these initiatives are set to continue fostering entrepreneurial skills, community connections, and sustainable development across the region.

Panbadangan Project Series Launches Financial Literacy Workshop for Banayakeo Community

Cordillera Career Development College (CCDC) recently conducted a series of community outreach activities at Mauro Lauro Elementary School in Sitio Banayakeo, Atok, Benguet, the institution’s adoptive community, on March 13, 2023 as part of the “Panbadangan Project Series” aimed at empowering rural communities. This event, organized by the Cordillera Career Development College (CCDC) in collaboration with the Banayakeo Cooperative, aimed to cover fundamental aspects of financial literacy, including budgeting, saving, and effective resource allocation. 

CCDC faculty members and staff from various departments, including the College of Accountancy (COA) , College of Teacher Education (CTE),College of Criminal and Justice Education (CCJE), College of Health Education (CHE), College of Social Work ( CSW), College of Law (COL) and finance experts led interactive sessions, breaking down complex financial concepts into practical steps tailored to the community’s needs. Topics included creating household budgets, managing savings, and understanding the basics of credit and debt.  

The day’s activities were categorized into two groups: one for parents and teachers, and another for students. Parents and teachers participated in sessions on understanding Filipino Children and Child Protection Laws, Battles and Blessing in Parenting, and Financial Literacy. Students, on the other hand, were engaged in activities such as a health check-up, reading comprehension, a sports clinic, and basic self-defense.

The event aimed to address various concerns within the community helping them to identify potential financial goals and develop realistic plans to achieve them. The workshop also addressed strategies for managing seasonal income fluctuations, limited access to healthcare and the need for self- defense skills are the common challenge in rural communities. Attendees were encouraged to adopt saving habits that align with their income cycles, helping them achieve greater financial stability.

The CCDC team emphasized that the Panbadangan Project Series is part of the broader community-based Entrepreneurial initiative and stressed on the importance of community engagement. In addition, the event highlighted the institution’s commitment to providing support and resources to rural communities and empower local communities by providing educational resources and skill-building opportunities. 

The event was deemed a success, with participants expressing gratitude for the valuable knowledge and skills gained. CCDC plans to continue its outreach activities and further strengthen its partnership with the community.

Banayakeo Poultry and Basket Weavers Workshop Promotes Sustainable Livelihoods

The “Entrepreneurial Talk with Banayakeo Poultry and Basket Weavers” workshop, held on November 16, 2023, at Banayakeo Barangay Hall in Atok, Benguet, was a unique event that brought traditional knowledge and skills to the forefront of community-led economic initiatives. Organized by CCDC’s Community-based Entrepreneurial School in collaboration with the Banayakeo Poultry and Basket Weavers Cooperative, the workshop aimed to equip locals with practical skills in poultry farming and basket weaving—two crafts integral to the cultural and economic growth of the region.

Community members engaged in hands-on sessions led by experienced cooperative members and CBEA faculty. For those interested in poultry farming, experts shared insights on essential practices like feed management, disease prevention, and maximizing egg production. The goal was to provide a sustainable pathway to income generation, with participants gaining a deeper understanding of how even small-scale poultry operations can lead to financial stability.

The basket weaving session captivated attendees by highlighting the intricacies and creativity of traditional craftsmanship. Cooperative members guided participants through material selection, weaving techniques, and finishing touches that improve the durability and appeal of each piece. This segment emphasized the importance of preserving cultural heritage through local crafts, showing how traditional basket weaving can evolve into a viable and sustainable source of income. The workshop’s success demonstrated the potential of merging tradition with business principles to create new economic opportunities.

The Banayakeo Cooperative and CCDC-CBEA department envision these workshops as a cornerstone of ongoing entrepreneurial support in the region. Future events will focus on other traditional crafts and skills, with organizers hoping to foster a culture of skill-sharing, community solidarity, and economic independence that benefits both individuals and families.

Compassion in Education: The CCDC Ayowan Program Ensures No Learner is Left Behind

In a more intensified effort to provide a holistic education and support for its students, the Cordillera Career Development College (CCDC) launched Project Ayowan on 26 April, 2023 at the university gym.

A Kankana-ey term, “ayowan” means “care.” This project is intended to provide care or assistance to students depending on their vulnerabilities which may range from academic to emotional and mental challenges. 

Aligned with the college’s dedication to the United Nation’s SDG 1-No Poverty and 4-Quality Education, Project Ayowan intends to provide mentors for students and assure them that they have someone to run to if faced with difficulties. Mentors are pooled volunteers from teaching and non-teaching personnel of CCDC. For sessions that may tackle more sensitive issues, licensed counselors will be engaged.

Specific services includes reading and comprehension tutorial, Math tutorial, academic counseling services, talk therapy sessions, facilitated guardian/parent and student sessions, guardian/parent academic information services, and other forms of services that support the intent of this program such as monitoring and follow-up services, spiritual support, and the like.

To ensure a secure place and provide privacy, facilities were identified to conduct individual or group sessions depending on need.

Immediately after launch, 15 volunteer mentors enlisted and six months after, a total of 524 students availed of Ayowan services. Academic counseling services and talk therapy sessions were the most in-demand.

CCDC Collaborates with PES for Project ALISTO

True to the spirit of “binnadang,” the Cordillera Career Development College (CCDC) quickly responded to Puguis Elementary School’s (PES) call to implement Project ALISTO (Alleviating Learners Interest in literacy and numeracy skills by Strengthening Techniques to achieve desired Outcomes). 

Proposed by Ms. Marlene A Naboye of PES, ALISTO is a remediation program to address the current reading and numeracy skills issue among young learners. This was conceptualized after individualized assessments and the Philippine Informal Reading Inventory (Phil-IRI) results in PES had shown that the learner’s literacy and numeracy skills are far behind the expected skills within their grade level.

Pre-service teacher-volunteers of CCDC are shown assisting PES learners in efforts to improve their reading skill.

Launched in 20 April 2023, this successful initiative paired volunteer pre-service teachers from CCDC with identified pupils of the PES for two-hour sessions on reading literacy. Post-assessment results showed improvement in the word recognition and reading skills of the 63 learners who participated.

Aside from conscious efforts to contribute to the United Nation’s Sustainable Development Goals 1-No Poverty and 4-Quality Education, the project also made a significant impact on the 57 students who volunteered to be part of the project. It became an avenue of experiential learning that resulted in the development of their creativity, innovation, teamwork, problem solving and critical thinking skills.  

The effort was well-appreciated by the PES and both partners are looking forward to a second round of implementation.

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/

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.

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

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.