Everyone Deserves a Chance: How CCDC Welcomes Students from All Walks of Life

For many young people in the Cordilleras, getting a college education can feel like an impossible dream. Distance, poverty, and life’s unexpected turns often put school on hold—or push it out of reach entirely. But at Cordillera Career Development College (CCDC), we believe that every student, no matter where they come from, deserves a fair shot at building a better future.

This belief is more than just a slogan—it’s our mission. For over 30 years, CCDC has lived by the promise of “Bringing Education Closer to the People,” and today, that promise is stronger than ever.

Opening Doors for the Underserved

In 2024, CCDC didn’t just aim to include students from underrepresented backgrounds—it succeeded. Over 35% of our new college freshmen came from farming families, indigenous communities, or households with limited income.  Many of these students are the first in their family to attend college.

How do we reach them? Our dedicated Guidance and Marketing Team travels to remote public schools, reconnects with out-of-school youth, and makes sure that even the most isolated students know: you are welcome here.

From Getting In to Graduating Strong

It’s one thing to get into college—but it’s another to stay, succeed, and graduate. That’s why we’re proud that 62% of our 2024 graduates came from low-income or rural families. They’ve overcome challenges many people never see—and they did it with the right support.

That support comes through our Ayowan Program, named after the Ibaloi word for “care.” Ayowan offers:

Financial assistance through scholarships and grants,

Emotional and mental health support via counseling and mentoring,

Academic help like tutoring for students who are struggling.

This caring community has helped CCDC achieve one of the highest completion rates in the region—79% of our students finish their program. 

 Because once students feel supported in all areas of their lives, they thrive.

Financial Help That Makes a Real Difference

Money should never be the reason someone gives up on college. That’s why nearly half of all CCDC students in 2024 received scholarships or financial aid. We work with government agencies, private sponsors, and offer our own in-house assistance so students can focus more on studying—and less on surviving.

For students from far-flung barangays, we even offer affordable housing on campus. Some give back by helping with school maintenance or security, turning assistance into a form of service and pride

Real Stories, Real People

The power of education is best told through the stories of our students. Like Brent O. Fermin, who grew up in a farming community and worked as a student assistant just to stay in school. Despite the financial and emotional load, he graduated with a degree in Criminology in June 2024—and was honored for Excellence in Student Service

Also, Leorize D. Baleo-ang, who juggled academics and work as a student assistant. With determination and discipline, he earned his degree and became a police officer, now part of the Special Action Force of the Philippine National Police. 

These are just two of many inspiring journeys that began at CCDC. Every year, more students like them prove that hard work, matched with the right support, can overcome even the steepest obstacles.

Justice, Community, and a Culture That Cares

Support at CCDC goes beyond tuition. Our Community Legal Aid Center offers free legal help to students and community members who need it most. And our campus is built around respect for Cordilleran values—welcoming students from all tribes, religions, genders, and identities.

Here, you’re not just a student ID. You’re a story, a dream in motion, and a valued member of a caring community.

The Future Starts with a First Step

If you’re a student—or a parent of one—wondering if college is really possible, we’re here to say: yes, it is. CCDC is built for students like you. Whether you’re from a mountain village, a farming family, or just looking for a second chance, there’s a place for you here. We don’t just offer education. We offer hope, support, and the tools to build a brighter future.

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.

Together, Let’s End Violence Against Women!

This November 25 to December 12, the CCDC joins the nation in the 18-Day Campaign to End Violence Against Women (VAW), fostering awareness and action for a future free from violence and inequality.

The recurring campaign theme for 2022-2027 is “UNiTEd for a VAW-free Philippines,” with the 2024 sub- theme, “VAW Bigyang Wakas, Ngayon na ang Oras!” Let’s stand as one community, amplifying our voices against all forms of abuse, exploitation, and discrimination.

💡 What can YOU do?

• Educate yourself and others about women’s rights.
• Report cases of violence to local authorities or hotlines.
• Empower survivors by supporting organizations and initiatives that advocate for women.
• Engage in conversations that challenge harmful gender norms.

📢 Follow us here for updates, activities, and ways to get involved in the campaign. Your participation can make a difference!

Together, we can create a safe, equitable, and empowering environment for all. 💜

#EndVAW #SafeSpacesForAll #UNiTEPhilippines #CCDCcares

CCDC Implements Anti-Harassment Policy to Uphold School Integrity and Safety

By: Orsolyn S. Balao-as

Cordillera Career Development College (CCDC) has introduced a comprehensive Anti-Harassment Policy to maintain a respectful and safe learning environment for all students and staff. This policy underscores the importance of protecting the dignity of CCDC employees and safeguarding the school’s reputation by prohibiting unauthorized posts on social media that defame the institution or its employees. Any post that misrepresents, directly or indirectly identifies, or harms the image of the school or its community members is subject to disciplinary action.

The policy includes a structured procedure for handling reported cases. Complaints must be filed within five days of the incident and are reviewed by the college Dean, who may conduct an investigation to verify the claims. For minor offenses, a formal warning is issued, and the student is referred to the Student Development Officer for guidance. For more severe offenses, such as harassment, the case is escalated to the Director of Student Services and a Board of Discipline, which involves neutral personnel to ensure fairness in reviewing the allegations and determining appropriate sanctions. In cases related to harassment, the Board of Discipline is guided by gender-sensitive protocols, emphasizing the importance of respectful, safe interactions. Outcomes of the disciplinary process, including any sanctions, are finalized by the school’s administration, ensuring transparent and fair resolution. Through this policy, CCDC demonstrates its commitment to fostering a supportive and respectful school environment, where the rights and dignity of each member are upheld.

Read more

CCDC Leads the Way in Promoting Well-being and Empowerment through Community Activities

Cordillera Career Development College (CCDC) is championing good health, well-being, and reducing inequalities by organizing a series of impactful activities in 2023 focused on mental health, self-discovery, and community empowerment. These programs, uniting staff and students, aim to enhance resilience and foster a supportive community.

Silaw: Bringing Light to My Precious Scar – January 12, 2023, JMM Hall
The year began with Silaw, a transformative event for Junior High School students that promoted self-acceptance through reflective activities and goal-setting. Participants explored personal challenges and built resilience, finding hope in each other’s support. By the program’s end, students were inspired to be guiding lights for their peers, cultivating a positive, supportive culture at CCDC.

Pasgedan di Namnama Series 1: Understanding is Healing – April 26, 2023
In April, the Pasgedan di Namnama series emphasized the theme “Understanding is Healing.” This event created a safe, inclusive environment where students could discuss challenges and appreciate cultural diversity. Through meaningful dialogue, participants learned that empathy and understanding are foundational to healing and to building supportive relationships.

Watch video here.

Psychosocial Activity: Self-Discovery – May 25, 2023, Admirals Park
In May, Grade 6 students and their parents took part in a Self-Discovery Psychosocial Activity at Admirals Park. This program encouraged students to recognize their strengths, reflect on their self-concept, and make positive choices. By comparing self-perceptions with others’ encouraging views, students gained confidence and clarity to navigate life’s decisions healthily.

More pictures here.

Seed to Forest: Life Skills Seminar – October 16, 2023, JMM Hall
The Seed to Forest seminar motivated Junior High School faculty to view their personal growth as vital to the school community’s collective strength. Senior High School faculty, meanwhile, attended another part of the Wasdin Sumya series, titled Mental Health is a Universal Human Right: Our Minds, Our Rights. Here, they shared struggles, supported each other, and took pride in their growth, promoting resilience through shared experiences.

Wasdin Sumya: Mental Health is a Universal Human Right – October 23, 2023
In October, CCDC capped off the year’s SDG 3 initiatives with Wasdin Sumya, an event designed to promote mental well-being and reduce stigma for Grades 4-6 students and teachers. Through workshops and discussions, participants learned self-care strategies and how to support one another, fostering a compassionate school environment that values mental health.

Peer Advocacy Training: RACE Against Suicide – October 12-14, 2023, Plaza Garden Hotel and Residences
To further empower its students as advocates, CCDC held a three-day Peer Advocacy Training. This training equipped students with essential skills to support their peers in self-discovery and healing, encouraging them to be active participants in promoting mental wellness within their academic community.

Through these initiatives, CCDC strengthens its commitment to the well-being of its students and community, aligning with SDG 3’s mission to promote health, mental wellness, and unity. Each activity has created a ripple effect, underscoring the importance of healthy minds and connected communities for a thriving future.

Working on Reducing Inequalities in Education

CCDC, a private, non-profit, non-stocker educational institution of higher learning strives to continuously gain ground in upholding quality education for all.  As such policies to ensure this goal is embedded in its admission policy including its Code of Discipline as clearly expressed in its Handbook for Students.

The CCDC Admission policy clearly states that CCDC is open to all students who meet the admission requirements, primarily the Diploma of Senior High School Completion and other legal documents, and to those who agree to abide by its policies, rules and regulations.

‘The Registrar and Admissions Office anchors its policy on RA 9442 or the Magna Carta for Persons with Disabilities.  As such, no student is denied admission to programs offered on account of a disability or additional requirements imposed on them” states Registrar Dima P. Amdos.  

Amdos adds that, to ensure the success of the students with disabilities, the school strongly recognizes the inherent role of the home and of the parents, and works on strengthening home and school partnerships and aligned goals and strategies.

In the same way, Annabelle B. Gondales, CCDC Vice President for Administration, CCDC strives to be gender responsive and commits to integrate the principles of gender equity, gender sensitivity, non-discrimination and human rights in its governance, curriculum instruction, student services and all student activities, including research and extension programs.

This is consistent with the policy of the Commission on Higher Education and the Department Of Education, including UNESCO.

Gondales also adds that CCDC is undertaking gender mainstreaming in education to address both enduring and emerging gender and sexuality-related issues, to promote the protection of children and students from all forms of gender-related violence, abuse, exploitation, discrimination and bullying to promote gender equity and all forms of discrimination in the campus.

CCDC’s Commitment to Workplace Equality

CCDC: Where Everyone Belongs

Cordillera Career Development College (CCDC) stands out as an institution committed to fostering a non-discriminatory environment for all students.

The institution’s unwavering commitment to non-discrimination and inclusivity has created a safe and welcoming environment for all students, regardless of their sexual orientation or gender identity.

Michael Angelo Navarro, a BSHM-3 student, shared his heartfelt experience at CCDC: “There was a time when I was asked to compete in a pageant. Despite knowing my sexual orientation, my professor and classmates still encouraged me. I was hesitant, but their support made me feel accepted.”

Navarro elaborated on the inclusive atmosphere: “When I came out to my classmates, they were incredibly supportive. They embraced me, making me feel safe and valued. It’s amazing to have such understanding and accepting peers.”

Another BSHM-3 student, Richmond Soriano echoed Navarro’s sentiment: “From the moment I stepped into CCDC, I felt a sense of belonging. The guards, teachers, and classmates treated me with respect, regardless of my sexual orientation. I’ve never experienced discrimination here, and it’s truly empowering.”

CCDC’s dedication to non-discrimination is evident in its policies and practices. The institution actively promotes gender equity, gender sensitivity, and human rights, ensuring that all students have equal opportunities. By adhering to the Data Privacy Act, CCDC protects the privacy and confidentiality of its students.

The college’s inclusive culture extends beyond policy. It’s about fostering a community where everyone feels valued and respected. CCDC’s commitment to diversity and inclusivity is not just a slogan; it’s a way of life. It’s a place where students can be themselves, without fear of judgment or discrimination.

CCDC’s unwavering commitment to inclusivity sets a powerful example for other educational institutions. By embracing diversity and promoting understanding, CCDC is shaping a brighter future for all its students.

CCDC Promotes Equality and Respect Through Anti-Discrimination Initiatives

By: Orsolyn S. Balao-as

Cordillera Career Development College (CCDC) is strengthening its commitment to a safe and inclusive campus environment by empowering its Student Services Office (SSO) and Human Resource Office (HRO) to implement key policies on anti-discrimination and anti-harassment. Guided by these policies, SSO and HRO are conducting essential training to educate students on human rights, the Safe Spaces Act (RA 11313), and the importance of diversity and respect in the school community.

The first training session, focused on Human Rights, was held on February 18, 2023, at Tongtongan Hall, where 140 students from the College of Criminal Justice Education (CCJE) participated. This engaging session provided students with a solid foundation in human rights principles, encouraging them to be advocates for respect and equality both on campus and in their future careers. Through discussions and case studies, participants explored the role of human rights in creating a culture of inclusion and mutual respect.

Before each semester, SSO and HRO also lead an orientation on the Safe Spaces Act, ensuring that every student is aware of their rights to a learning environment free from harassment and discrimination. This orientation emphasizes the values of respect and dignity, providing students with tools to contribute positively to the campus community. By equipping students with knowledge on human rights and the Safe Spaces Act, CCDC reinforces its mission of fostering an academic environment where every individual feels safe, respected, and valued.

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.