Looking Back, Moving Forward: Growing into Who I Am

Grade 6 pupils participated in a developmental activity entitled “Looking Back, Moving Forward: Growing into Who I Am” on April 17. The activity was designed to support learners in developing a deeper understanding of themselves as they prepare for more advanced academic and social experiences.

The session focused on guided reflection, enabling pupils to revisit past experiences, recognize personal growth, and identify individual strengths. Through structured discussions and reflective exercises, learners were given the opportunity to process their thoughts and emotions, leading to a better understanding of their personal development.

At this stage of development, strengthening self-esteem is essential as it shapes how learners perceive themselves, relate with others, and respond to challenges. By acknowledging their achievements, strengths, and personal value, pupils were guided in developing a more positive self-concept and greater confidence. The activity aimed to promote self-acceptance while equipping learners with resilience and readiness to face future challenges.

A key highlight of the activity was the emotional sharing session, where pupils expressed apologies and gratitude to significant individuals in their lives. This segment encouraged meaningful reflection and emotional processing while fostering empathy, forgiveness, and appreciation. The sincerity shown by the learners indicated their willingness to engage in honest self-expression within a safe and supportive environment.

Another important component was the group sharing activity, where pupils discussed their experiences, challenges, and personal growth. This activity helped enhance self-awareness and improved their ability to express thoughts and emotions effectively. It also encouraged empathy as learners became more aware of the impact of their actions on others. Additionally, it reinforced the practice of gratitude and forgiveness while strengthening self-esteem through the recognition of personal strengths and achievements.

Overall, the activity supported the holistic development of Grade 6 pupils by promoting self-awareness, emotional maturity, and self-confidence. It provided an opportunity for reflection, encouraged appreciation of personal growth, and helped learners develop a stronger sense of self as they continue their academic journey.

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3-Day Health Services Activity: “Know Your Status, Protect, and Stop HIV Stigma

On April 14, 16, and 17, 2026, a three-day health services activity titled “Know Your Status, Protect, and Stop HIV Stigma” was conducted to educate students about the realities of HIV and AIDS, promote responsible health behaviors, and encourage compassion toward individuals living with HIV.

Students and employees actively participated in the activity held at the campus quadrangle, taking advantage of the free and accessible healthcare services offered throughout the event.

Key services included HIV screening (conducted on all three days), cervical screening tests, and chest X-rays, all of which emphasized the importance of early detection and prevention. Many individuals also volunteered to donate blood, reinforcing the message of saving lives and supporting the community.

The services were conveniently provided in the quadrangle, making participation more accessible to everyone on campus. Attendees were also able to update and access their health benefits, increasing awareness of available healthcare support systems.

Overall, the event highlighted the importance of early detection, regular screening, and proactive health management. Additionally, engaging with healthcare professionals helped participants build confidence in asking questions and discussing their health concerns.

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Road Beautification: Painting for a Cleaner and Greener Community

On March 28, 2026, a group of NSTP students from the Department of Social Work successfully carried out a road beautification project in their partner barangay, marking a significant step toward promoting community pride and environmental awareness. The initiative aimed not only to enhance the physical appearance of public spaces but also to reinforce the community’s identity and accessibility for residents, visitors, and tourists.

Grounded in the principles of Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities, the project focused on creating a more inclusive, safe, and visually organized environment. Through repainting and installing clear, visible signage, the students helped improve the barangay’s overall visibility and functionality.

The success of the initiative was made possible through effective teamwork and coordination. The students were organized into three groups, each assigned a specific role: roadside painting, lettering on the flat sheet, and meal preparation in the designated cooking area. This structured approach ensured efficiency while fostering cooperation and shared responsibility among participants.

More than a simple repainting activity, the road beautification project stands as a testament to the vital role of youth in community development. It demonstrates how collective action, even through modest and cost-effective means, can create meaningful and lasting impact. Through their collaboration with barangay officials, the students embodied the spirit of SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals, highlighting the importance of unity in achieving sustainable progress.

Ultimately, the initiative serves as both a practical improvement and a symbolic gesture—one that inspires residents to take pride in their surroundings and actively participate in building a cleaner, safer, and more resilient community.

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BRIDGING HORIZONS: Strengthening Social Work Education through Educational Tour

On February 28, 2026, the College of Social Work of Cordillera Career Development College (CCDC) warmly welcomed the students and faculty members from Universidad de Sta. Isabel de Naga, Inc. for a meaningful and memorable academic engagement under the LeD (Learners Development) initiative entitled “Bridging Horizons: Educational Tour of Universidad de Sta. Isabel de Naga, Inc. to CCDC’s Social Work Program.”

Held at the CCDC campus in Buyagan, Poblacion, La Trinidad, Benguet, the activity gathered 64 Social Work students from CCDC and 93 visiting students, accompanied by their faculty members—Dr. Nathalie C. Ranin, Edlyn M. Batutay, and Laila C. Romero. The delegation was formally received by Ms. Melody Calpase-Ducat, Dean of the College of Social Work, and Ms. Kimberlyn Valdez, Social Work Program Coordinator, who facilitated the academic exchange and institutional engagement.

Anchored on the philosophy of CCDC that “the student is the center of the educational process,” the activity reflects the institution’s strong commitment to providing quality, inclusive, and culturally responsive education. It also reinforces the College’s vision of becoming “a center of quality education for culturally diverse and global learners,” and its mission of developing socially responsible and globally competent professionals.

More than a formal academic visit, the educational tour evolved into a dynamic platform for connection, collaboration, and cultural exchange. Through guided campus tours, structured program presentations, and interactive discussions, the visiting students were introduced to the Social Work program, institutional practices, and student life at CCDC. These engagements enabled participants to contextualize classroom theories within real-world academic settings and deepen their understanding of social work education.

The day was marked by genuine interactions and shared experiences, as students and faculty members from both institutions exchanged insights about their academic journeys, fieldwork experiences, and aspirations as future social workers. The atmosphere was filled with enthusiasm, laughter, and meaningful conversations, highlighting the importance of peer learning and professional solidarity.

A notable highlight of the visit was the guided campus tour, where guests were introduced to various offices, classrooms, and learning spaces within CCDC. Another key feature of the activity was the cultural exchange, during which students shared local dialects and expressions, fostering mutual appreciation of linguistic diversity. Adding to the experience, the visiting delegation enthusiastically participated in the community dance, the “Grand March and Tayaw,” embracing local traditions and celebrating unity through movement and shared cultural expression.

This immersive experience underscored that social work education extends beyond the classroom. It is rooted in building relationships, appreciating diversity, and cultivating empathy – core values essential to the profession. The activity also promoted equity, care ethics, and community engagement, allowing students to witness how these principles are embodied in different institutional contexts.

Furthermore, the LeD initiative contributes significantly to quality assurance and accreditation efforts, as it documents innovative co-curricular practices that enhance student learning outcomes. It demonstrates CCDC’s proactive approach in integrating experiential learning opportunities aligned with national and global standards in social work education.

Ultimately, “Bridging Horizons” stands as a testament to the power of academic collaboration and shared purpose. The visit not only enriched the participants’ academic and cultural perspectives but also strengthened the bond between two institutions committed to nurturing competent, compassionate, and service-driven social workers.

Indeed, the experience served as a meaningful reminder that the heart of social work lies in connection, cultural understanding, and collective commitment to service—values that transcend classrooms and unite future professionals in their shared mission to make a difference.

By: Kimberlyn Valdez(SW Faculty), Dechiree P. Lee (SWMC Councilor)

Photo Layout by: Jhulie N. Alangwawi (SWMC Vice Mayor)

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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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𝐹𝑒𝑠𝑡𝑖𝑣𝑎𝑙 𝑜𝑓 𝑇𝑎𝑙𝑒𝑛𝑡𝑠

The Festival of Talents, held on March 2, 2026, at the Tupayya Complex, provided learners with a platform to showcase their skills in music, dance, visual arts, and more. The event helped students overcome stage fright, build self-esteem, and inspire their peers to express their unique abilities within the school community.

Coinciding with Hearts Day, the festival also served as a creative celebration that brought students and teachers together, strengthening bonds throughout the school. It encouraged everyone to celebrate friendship, kindness, and love in all its forms—romantic, platonic, and familial.

The program began with a doxology performed by the Glee Club, followed by a seminar led by Ma’am Ronnie Villie Valdez on the definition of love, recognizing genuine affection, and identifying red flags. After a short break, the CCDC JHS “Got Talent” competition commenced. In the afternoon, students presented spoken poetry and original song compositions. The event concluded with interactive games and the awarding of winners.

Overall, the Festival of Talents was a resounding success, providing students not only an opportunity to showcase their creativity but also a space to build confidence, foster camaraderie, and celebrate the spirit of love and friendship. Events like this remind the school community of the importance of supporting one another and embracing each person’s unique gifts.

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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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