Unveiling the Cordilleran Soul: Cordi 101 Culminates with a Celebration of History, Culture, and Heritage

The Cordillera Career Development College (CCDC) successfully celebrated the culminating activity of the Cordi 101 course with an enriching full-day event titled “Ensemble and Tapestry of Traditions: Presentation of Cordilleran Culture” on December 6, 2025. The program brought together approximately 600 students, all eager to showcase their deepened understanding of Cordilleran heritage, traditions, and identity.

The culminating activity aligned strongly with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)—particularly SDG 4: Quality Education and SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities, which emphasize inclusive learning and cultural preservation. 

One of the main highlights of the day was the seminar titled “Cordilleran History and Igorot Identity,” delivered by Sir Mark Joshua A. Balao-as, a distinguished instructor from Benguet State University, College of Social Sciences. As the co-author of the book Tawid Cordillera, Balao-as offered students a profound and scholarly perspective on the region’s heritage. His lecture explored the complex tapestry of Cordilleran culture. The session helped students appreciate the interconnectedness of cultural preservation, contributing to SDG 16: Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions.

Throughout the morning and afternoon, students presented a variety of cultural performances, showcasing traditional dances, rituals, attire, and artistic expressions representing different Cordilleran ethnolinguistic groups. These presentations highlighted not only the richness of local culture but also the creativity, cooperation, and dedication of the students. 

Adding vibrancy to the celebration were the traditional games, which fostered camaraderie and strengthened social bonds among participants. These activities promoted physical well-being, teamwork, and cultural appreciation.

The event concluded with an awarding ceremony recognizing outstanding performances, followed by a community dance, symbolizing unity and collective cultural pride. This culminating moment captured the essence of Cordi 101: A celebration of identity, heritage, and shared responsibility in keeping Cordilleran culture alive.

The success of the Cordi 101 culminating program reflects CCDC’s unwavering dedication to producing educators and professionals who are culturally grounded, socially aware, and committed to community development. By weaving together tradition, scholarship, and sustainable development, the event not only honored the Cordilleran soul but also empowered the next generation to carry its legacy forward.

By: Diana Rose T. Leckias

             CTE Faculty

Operation Kajo in full swing as Typhoon Uwan devastates Northern Luzon

Cordillera Career Development College-led Operation Kajo has reached out to various individuals, families, and schools that were affected by the destruction brought by super typhoon Uwan last November. Swipe below to see the recent disaster response activities made by school personnel and volunteers from the institution, in partnership with the different local government units and agencies, around the Cordillera and even expanding Operation Kajo’s reach to Region II; because caring has no boundaries. Special thanks to all the donors and volunteers who made Operation Kajo possible.

𝗕𝗘𝗡𝗘𝗖𝗢-𝗖𝗖𝗗𝗖 𝗠𝗲𝗱𝗶𝗰𝗮𝗹 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗟𝗲𝗴𝗮𝗹 𝗠𝗶𝘀𝘀𝗶𝗼𝗻 𝗦𝘂𝗰𝗰𝗲𝘀𝘀 𝗶𝗻 𝗕𝗼𝗸𝗼𝗱

Barangay Pito, Bokod, Benguet – The Benguet Electric Cooperative (BENECO), in partnership with the Cordillera Career Development College (CCDC), successfully conducted a Medical and Legal Mission aimed at providing essential health and legal services to residents, particularly those in remote communities.

The mission was initiated by BENECO in coordination with Sir Abello Fernando, Director of BENECO District 8. The CCDC team included medical clinic personnel, Community Health Education (CHE) staff, administrative faculty, student nurses, midwifery students, pharmacy students, and the school driver. Together with a licensed pharmacist, legal professionals, and volunteers, the team ensured the organized and compassionate delivery of services.

Free medical consultations, basic health assessments, medications, and legal assistance were offered to residents. Student nurses and midwifery students assisted with patient assessments, vital sign monitoring, health education, documentation, and crowd management. Pharmacy students, under the supervision of the licensed pharmacist, supported medication dispensing and provided drug counseling. Their combined efforts were instrumental to the mission’s success and provided valuable hands-on community experience.

Residents expressed gratitude for the accessible services, emphasizing that the mission helped address common health concerns and legal needs without requiring long travel. Local officials also lauded the collaboration between BENECO and CCDC for its meaningful impact on the community.

The organizers extended their sincere appreciation to all volunteers, staff, student nurses, midwifery students, pharmacy students, and the residents of Barangay Pito for their cooperation. 

The mission concluded with strengthened community ties and a shared commitment to continued service.