Strengthening Academic Excellence through Shared Learning: A Faculty Development Re-Echo Session of the College of Social Work

On February 21, 2026, from 12:00 PM to 5:00 PM, the College of Social Work (CSW) of Cordillera Career Development College (CCDC) conducted a meaningful and enriching Faculty Development Session/Capacity Building Activity at the CSW Office, JMM Building, La Trinidad, Benguet. Anchored on the theme of knowledge sharing and professional growth, the activity, titled “Faculty Development Session/ Capacity Building: Re-Echo of Trainings and Seminars Attended in Semester 1, SY 2025–2026,” served as a platform for faculty members to consolidate, reflect on, and disseminate valuable insights gained from various academic and professional engagements.

The session was led by the Dean of Social Work, Melody Calpase-Ducat, and actively participated in by the faculty members: Aelline G. Carame, Cherry Cayadan, Liza C. Balao, Jeniffer L. Luciano, Marjorie M. Amkinit, and Kimberlyn M. Valdez. Their collective involvement demonstrated a strong commitment to continuous learning and academic excellence.

Grounded in the principles of capacity building and collaborative learning, the re-echo session highlighted the importance of institutional knowledge transfer. It provided an avenue for faculty members to share key learnings from attended seminars and trainings, thereby ensuring that professional development extends beyond individual participation and contributes to the overall advancement of the program. This initiative aligns with the standards set by CHED Memorandum Order No. 39, s. 2017, particularly in strengthening competencies in practicum supervision, ethical leadership, and responsive social work education.

Among the featured trainings was the PASWI session on “Intergenerational Links and Challenges for Social Work Practice,” which emphasized the evolving dynamics between generations and the need for responsive and inclusive interventions in social work practice. The NASWEI 51st Biennial Convention, themed “Reimagining Social Work Education,” offered forward-looking perspectives on curriculum innovation, digital transformation, and the integration of global trends into local practice.

The session also included insights from TALAKAYAN: Knowledge in Court Social Work Setting, which provided practical understanding of legal processes and the vital role of social workers within judicial systems. Another significant input came from the activity titled “Dialogue with Social Work Students: Bridging the Gap Between Theory and Practice,” which underscored the importance of aligning academic instruction with real-world experiences to better prepare students for professional practice.

Additionally, learnings from the WURI Global Conference 2025, with the theme “When Innovation Becomes a Global Movement,” enriched the discussion by highlighting the role of innovation, interdisciplinary approaches, and global collaboration in shaping the future of higher education and social work.

The re-echo session fostered a culture of peer learning, reflective practice, and professional solidarity among faculty members. It enabled the immediate application of best practices in teaching, assessment, and curriculum development, tailored to the local context while remaining globally informed. More importantly, it reinforced the value of lifelong learning and adaptability among educators in an ever-evolving academic landscape.

Through this initiative, the College of Social Work continues to demonstrate its commitment to delivering quality education, strengthening faculty competencies, and ultimately enhancing student outcomes. The activity stands as a testament to the institution’s dedication to academic excellence, innovation, and transformative social work education.

By: Kimberlyn Valdez and Jennifer L. Luciano (SW Faculties)

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𝑵𝒂𝒗𝒊𝒈𝒂𝒕𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝑵𝒂𝒕𝒖𝒓𝒆 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝑨𝑫𝑴𝑰𝑹𝑨𝑳𝑺’ 𝑾𝒂𝒚: 𝑨 𝑺𝒕𝒖𝒅𝒆𝒏𝒕 𝑾𝒆𝒍𝒍𝒏𝒆𝒔𝒔 𝑷𝒓𝒐𝒈𝒓𝒂𝒎

March 31, 2026 | ADMIRALS Farm Park

As part of the 33 meaningful activities for the 33rd Founding Anniversary of CCDC, 25 selected students, one parent, and seven employees participated in a refreshing wellness walk in nature.

Grounded in mental health, the activity highlighted how immersing in nature helps improve our well-being. This was evident in the students’ reflections: “The mountain was very steep to walk, but despite the challenges, we enjoyed the walk, combined with laughter with friends.” – Zrein; “The wellness walk was exciting… I was able to refresh my mind and somehow forget my problems.” – Tristan.

Simple yet powerful: healing can happen through movement and shared experiences. As the college guidance advocate, Michelle, reminded everyone: “There is no single way to handle stress; what matters is finding healthy ways that work best for us.”

The experience was enriched with traditional foods—symbolizing that, just as our bodies are naturally nourished, so is our well-being through rest and connection. The activity affirmed a deeper truth: we already have the capacity to heal and grow. As shared in Philippians 4:13, “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.”

𝗕𝗲𝗰𝗮𝘂𝘀𝗲 𝘀𝗼𝗺𝗲𝘁𝗶𝗺𝗲𝘀, 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗯𝗲𝘀𝘁 𝘄𝗮𝘆 𝘁𝗼 𝗺𝗼𝘃𝗲 𝗳𝗼𝗿𝘄𝗮𝗿𝗱… 𝗶𝘀 𝘁𝗼 𝘁𝗮𝗸𝗲 𝗮 𝘄𝗮𝗹𝗸.

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Women’s Month Celebration 2026: Voices of Change

In line with the celebration of Women’s Month, the Junior High School Department successfully conducted a meaningful program anchored on the theme “Voices of Change: Standing Up Against Bullying, Gender Discrimination, and Online Harassment” last March 17 at 1:00 PM onwards. The event was held at Iyaman Hall, Dakilan Building, CCDC, gathering a total of 262 learners and 9 teachers in a unified call for awareness and action.

The program was initiated by the JHS Department as part of its commitment to promote a safe, inclusive, and empowering environment for all learners, especially in addressing pressing social issues affecting women and youth today. The event featured two invited speakers, Earl Hendrix Big-asan, RPM, and Ulysses Dalog, LPT, both recognized as active young leaders and facilitators of the Cordillera Young Leaders Club (CYLC). Their presence brought inspiration and depth to the discussion as they shared insights on leadership, respect, and standing up against injustices.

The celebration aimed to take a proactive stance against gender-based violence and discrimination while empowering students—especially young women—to find their voice and assert their rights. Specifically, the program sought to:

• Raise awareness about the realities and effects of bullying, gender discrimination, and online harassment.
• Encourage learners to become advocates of respect, equality, and safe spaces.
• Empower students to confidently express themselves and stand up for what is right.
• Promote responsible digital behavior and accountability in online platforms.
• Strengthen students’ sense of leadership and social responsibility.

Through interactive discussions and motivational messages, the speakers emphasized that change begins with awareness and is sustained through action. They challenged the learners to become “voices of change” in their own communities—individuals who do not remain silent in the face of injustice but instead choose to act with courage and integrity.

The active participation of the 262 JHS learners and the support of the 9 teachers contributed to the success of the event. The program not only celebrates women but also highlights the collective responsibility of everyone—regardless of gender—to create a more inclusive and respectful society.

Indeed, the Women’s Month celebration served as a powerful reminder that being a “voice of change” means standing firm, speaking up, and taking action—because every voice matters.

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Arts Month Celebration

The Arts Month Celebration, held on March 6, 2026, at Tupayya Complex, carried the theme “Ani ng Sining: Katotohanan at Gitling.” The theme highlights the arts as the harvest of Filipino creativity, shaped by truth and courage. The word ani symbolizes the fruits of artistic labor—works born from history, struggle, and collective aspirations.

Throughout Philippine history, art has served as a powerful medium for revealing truth and inspiring bravery. From the reformist writings of Jose Rizal to the revolutionary spirit of Andres Bonifacio, creative expression has awakened national consciousness and challenged injustice. Today, Filipino artists continue to uphold this legacy by amplifying authentic stories and confronting social realities.

Guided by the National Commission for Culture and the Arts (NCCA), National Arts Month 2026 celebrates the courage to create, speak the truth, and shape a more aware and empowered nation through the arts.

The Arts Month Celebration successfully provided students with opportunities to showcase their creativity, talents, and artistic skills through various competitions, including Fruit Carving, Coffee Painting, Duet Competition, and Short Film Making.

Overall, the celebration was both meaningful and successful, serving as a dynamic platform for students to develop their artistic abilities while strengthening their appreciation for both contemporary and traditional art forms. The activity not only celebrated creativity but also contributed to the holistic development of learners by enhancing their critical thinking, communication skills, and cultural awareness.

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Rooted in Service, Growing in Unity: The Panbadangan Series Milestones

CCDC continues to uphold its commitment to community engagement in Banayakeo, Poblacion, Benguet, through two meaningful extension milestones.

On November 21, 2025, CCDC successfully conducted the Panbadangan Series Community Outreach, bringing together various colleges in a unified effort to empower and uplift the adopted community. The College of Business Education and Administration (CBEA) conducted a poultry livelihood monitoring program to ensure the sustainability of previously introduced initiatives. The College of Criminal Justice Education (CCJE), through Project Safeguard, facilitated self-defense workshops in arnis and wushu, equipping learners with practical safety skills.

The College of Health Education (CHE) energized the day with engaging health-promoting activities, such as “Soda Monster vs. Water Warrior” and “Go, Glo & Grow Funday,” which encouraged healthy lifestyle choices among pupils. The College of Social Work (CSW) implemented the “Smart Kids: Safe Screen on Cyberbullying” program, raising awareness on responsible digital citizenship. Meanwhile, the College of Teacher Education (CTE) conducted interactive reading and numeracy engagement sessions to strengthen foundational academic skills.

In addition, the Scholars and Library Team organized the school library and conducted a faculty orientation on maximizing library resources. The afternoon continued with school grounds weeding, ongoing lectures, and martial arts training sessions. The outreach concluded with an awarding ceremony and the distribution of educational and sports materials, including badminton and table tennis equipment, generously provided through CCJE.

On February 13, 2026, the Community Extension and Services team returned to conduct an impact assessment data gathering activity. Community members shared positive feedback, expressing appreciation for the relevance of the programs and their hope for a continuous and long-term partnership. The encouraging responses affirmed that the Panbadangam Series is not merely a one-day outreach initiative, but a sustained collaboration grounded in empowerment, education, and shared growth.

Together, we move forward—serving, listening, and building stronger communities.

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Criminology Practicum 2 Pre-Deployment

The Criminology Practicum 2 (CP2) Pre-Deployment Program was successfully conducted on February 4 and 5 at Iyaman Hall, preparing interns for their upcoming field assignments under the Tri-Bureaus.

The two-day activity aimed to strengthen the interns’ foundational knowledge in law enforcement, risk management, and rehabilitation. It served as a vital step in bridging academic learning and real-world practice, ensuring that students are fully prepared for the responsibilities they will undertake during their internship.

The orientation focused on clarifying the roles and duties of CP2 interns, helping them understand professional expectations in their respective host agencies. Discussions highlighted the importance of applying criminological theories in practical settings, developing critical thinking skills, and cultivating a strong work ethic.

Representatives from the Tri-Bureaus—the Bureau of Jail Management and Penology (BJMP), Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP), and Philippine National Police (PNP)—oriented the interns on their respective rules and regulations. These included proper wearing of uniforms, appropriate grooming standards, and the behavioral expectations required of interns while on duty.

The BJMP emphasized the submission of weekly accomplishment reports and a post-On-the-Job Training (OJT) report to be prepared by the team leader. Drug testing was also identified as a mandatory requirement. Meanwhile, both the BFP and PNP required the submission of medical certificates prior to deployment.

Beyond compliance requirements, the program underscored the value of self-discipline, punctuality, respect, and professional courtesy. Interns were reminded that adherence to rules and regulations reflects not only on themselves but also on the institution they represent.

Through this pre-deployment program, CP2 interns are now better equipped to transition smoothly from academic life to professional practice, ready to serve with integrity, responsibility, and competence.

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CCDC Celebrates Love Month with “My Body, My Heart, My Boundaries” Seminar

Love Month at CCDC became more meaningful as the school conducted the seminar “My Body, My Heart, My Boundaries” on February 11, 2026, at the SHS Hall for Grade 4, 5, and 6 pupils. The activity aimed to equip students with essential knowledge about personal space, body safety, and healthy boundaries in a way that was engaging, age-appropriate, and empowering.

The program opened with the National Anthem and an Opening Prayer, creating a respectful and reflective atmosphere. Sir Serafin Padioan, Program Coordinator, formally welcomed the participants with inspiring words that reminded students of their worth and the importance of respecting themselves and others. His message emphasized responsibility, self-respect, and strong values as the foundations for personal growth.

The session began with an energizing icebreaker and an audio-visual presentation that introduced the theme. The highlight of the seminar was the insightful talk delivered by Ma’am Chita Habon, the school’s Guidance Counselor. Through a child-friendly and meaningful discussion, she explained the importance of protecting personal spaces and recognizing safe and unsafe touch. Using the traffic light concept, she clearly illustrated that green means safe, yellow signals caution or confusion, and red indicates unsafe touch that must be reported immediately. Students were encouraged to trust their instincts, confidently say “no,” and seek help from trusted adults.

To reinforce the lesson, Ma’am Habon, together with the Guidance advocates, facilitated an interactive group activity where pupils marked a prepared drawing of a person to identify safe, confusing, and unsafe areas of touch. The activity fostered teamwork, participation, and deeper understanding. Each group then presented their outputs, confidently explaining their insights and learning from one another.

The seminar concluded with closing remarks, prayer, and student feedback. More than just a Love Month activity, the event served as a powerful reminder that every child has the right to feel safe and respected. Through initiatives like this, CCDC continues to champion holistic formation by nurturing responsible, self-aware, and values-driven learners who are grounded in respect, integrity, and a care for others.

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𝖲𝖲𝖫𝖦 𝖢𝗈𝗇𝖽𝗎𝖼𝗍𝗌 𝖦𝖠𝖡𝖠𝖸 𝖢𝖺𝗆𝗉 𝗍𝗈 𝖲𝗁𝖺𝗉𝖾 𝖵𝖺𝗅𝗎𝖾𝗌-𝖢𝖾𝗇𝗍𝖾𝗋𝖾𝖽 𝖲𝗍𝗎𝖽𝖾𝗇𝗍 𝖫𝖾𝖺𝖽𝖾𝗋𝗌

The Supreme Secondary Learner Government (SSLG) of the Senior High School Department of Cordillera Career Development College successfully conducted the GABAY Camp, a leadership and team-building program, on January 28, 2026, at Admirals Park, Longlong, Puguis, La Trinidad, Benguet.

The activity was attended by 32 participants composed of SSLG officers and selected Senior High School student leaders, together with their adviser, Ms. Sheryl Garcia, and guest speaker Sir Dennis Guiniguin. The camp aimed to develop both current and future student leaders by strengthening leadership competencies, encouraging collaboration, and instilling core values essential to effective leadership.

During the program, Sir Dennis Guiniguin shared meaningful insights on leadership and character formation. He emphasized the importance of honesty, compassion, respect, and integrity, highlighting that effective leadership is demonstrated through being a positive influence and a role model to others. Ms. Sheryl Garcia also guided the participants in understanding that leadership is grounded in service and accountability.

Throughout the day, participants engaged in various activities designed to enhance teamwork, self-awareness, and leadership responsibility. These activities provided opportunities for students from different classes, strands, and organizations to build stronger connections while reflecting on their roles as student leaders within the school community.

The GABAY Camp concluded with a renewed sense of purpose among the participants, as they expressed their commitment to applying the lessons learned in their respective roles. Through this initiative, the SSLG reaffirmed its dedication to developing student leaders who are not only competent, but also values-oriented and socially responsible.

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Eucharistic Celebration and Orientation for Freshmen and Transfer Students

The CCDC Guidance and Counseling Office warmly welcomed freshmen and transfer students through an orientation program held on January 15, 2026, from 8:00 a.m. to 12:00 noon at the Tupay-ya Sports Complex.

The day began with a Eucharistic Celebration presided over by Rev. Fr. Bene Villapa, who reflected on the importance of knowing one’s purpose, comparing it to the guiding star that led the three kings. He also encouraged everyone to “be the ear that listens and the heart that is compassionate.

Atty. Anabelle B. Gonzales then welcomed the students, emphasizing the key message of the homily—the importance of being guided by the Holy Spirit in the pursuit of success.

This was followed by orientation sessions that introduced students to the offices that would support them throughout their stay at CCDC. Representatives from the Library, Registrar’s Office, Guidance and Counseling, Medical and Dental , Student Services Office provided practical information on academic procedures, health services, and student support. The sessions also highlighted proper student conduct, encouraging students to be mindful of their behavior both on and off campus, including digital conduct.

The program also emphasized student health and safety. Dr. Myla Corpuz discussed the harmful effects of smoking, helping students understand its impact on their health and well-being. Meanwhile, Ma’am Sharry Joy Benwasen addressed the dangers of vaping and discussed the La Trinidad ordinance, including penalties for violations, to encourage students to make informed and healthy choices.

By the end of the program, students were informed of essential services and reassured of the support available to them at CCDC.

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CCDC–CTE Participates in the 2nd National Teacher Education Summit

The Cordillera Career Development College – College of Teacher Education (CCDC–CTE) actively participated in the 2nd National Teacher Education Summit themed “Bantug, Bannuar, Bayanihan: Quality-Driven Teacher Education Leadership in Focus” held on December 15, 2025, in Quezon City.

The summit convened heads, presidents, and officers-in-charge of public and private higher education institutions nationwide that offer pre-service teacher education programs. The event served as a platform for collaboration, dialogue, and knowledge exchange aimed at strengthening teacher education leadership in the Philippines.

The summit underscored the importance of quality assurance, innovation, and shared responsibility in preparing future educators who are responsive to both national and global demands. It aimed to:

• Reinforce quality assurance mechanisms in undergraduate and graduate Teacher Education Programs (TEPs);
• Strategize curriculum innovation and ensure alignment with national development priorities and international benchmarks;
• Strengthen institutional governance and enhance data utilization for evidence-based decision-making; and
• Promote holistic teacher formation by integrating institutional values with national and global standards.

Participation in this national summit strongly aligns with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 4: Quality Education, which advocates for inclusive, equitable, and quality education and the promotion of lifelong learning opportunities for all. The discussions on curriculum innovation, teacher preparation, and governance also support SDG 16: Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions, emphasizing effective, accountable, and inclusive educational institutions. Moreover, the spirit of bayanihan and collaborative leadership highlighted during the summit reflects SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals, fostering cooperation among higher education institutions and stakeholders to achieve shared educational objectives.

Representing CCDC–CTE in this significant national engagement were Dean Juvy O. Baso and Program Coordinators Arelene A. Palasico and Marfrelyn A. Angyatao. Their participation demonstrates the college’s continued commitment to advancing quality-driven teacher education, strengthening institutional leadership, and contributing to the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals through transformative education.

Through its active involvement in national initiatives such as this summit, CCDC–CTE reaffirms its dedication to producing competent, values-oriented, and globally competitive educators who can meaningfully contribute to nation-building and sustainable development.

J.O.B.