CCDC College of Criminal Justice Education Shines in the 19th National Forensic Science Specialization Training

The Cordillera Career Development College (CCDC) once again demonstrated its strong commitment to advancing forensic competency and professional development of its faculty members during the 19th National Forensic Science Specialization Training, held from November 23–30, 2025, at Brentwood Apartelle, M. Roxas Street, Baguio City. 

With the theme “Advancing Forensic Expertise for Modern Investigation,” the week-long live-in training brought together forensic practitioners and criminal justice professionals from across the Philippines to strengthen their expertise in specialized investigative disciplines. Participants completed 80 hours of intensive instruction, hands-on simulations, and expert-led workshops across five major fields, namely: Fire Arson Detection and Investigation Course, Forensic Investigation of Violent Crimes, Advanced Forensic Photography Specialization Course, Advanced Forensic Ballistics Specialization Course, and Advanced Forensic Chemistry Specialization Course.

CCDC’s College of Criminal Justice Education fielded five dedicated delegates—Shannia Brineth B. Bandao, Marcial M. Etong, Vergel C. Bayacsan, Justin B. Lingaling, and Charity T. Bayawa—who all represented the institution with professionalism and competence. Among them, Shannia Brineth B. Bandao distinguished herself in the Fire Arson Detection and Investigation Course (FADIC) by ranking first overall, securing first place in the Expert Witness Oral Defense component of the course, and receiving commendation as Class President of FADIC.

In the Advanced Forensic Ballistics Specialization Course, Marcial M. Etong earned second place overall, and in the Expert Witness Oral Defense in the said course. Vergel C. Bayacsan, representing the Advanced Forensic Photography Specialization Course, attained first place in the Expert Witness Oral Defense, while Justin B. Lingaling excelled in the Forensic Investigation of Violent Crimes course by earning second place in the Expert Witness Oral Defense.

The collective participation and achievements of these five delegates underscore CCDC’s dedication to developing competent, culturally grounded, and globally prepared professionals. Their strong performance mirrors the institution’s continuous pursuit of educational excellence, one that emphasizes holistic development, civic responsibility, dignity, and cultural awareness. By engaging in rigorous national forensic training, the delegates embodied the college’s commitment to empowering learners through meaningful, and experience-driven opportunities. Their success affirms CCDC’s vision of shaping responsible leaders who bring honor to their fields and contribute meaningfully to community safety, justice, and nation-building. 

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CCDC Empowers Students on Digital Safety During National Children’s Month 2025

In celebration of the 2025 National Children’s Month, the Cordillera Career Development College – Basic Education Department, through the Guidance and Counseling Office, conducted a series of developmental and advocacy seminars focused on responsible digital citizenship and the protection of children’s rights in the online world.

Anchored on the themes “Be Cyber Smart: Protect, Respect, Connect” for younger learners and “Click with Care: Defend Yourself, Protect Others” for older students, each seminar delivered age-appropriate, insightful discussions designed to empower students to navigate digital spaces safely and responsibly.

The series opened on November 21, 2025, with the Middle and Junior High School seminar held at the Tupay-ya Sports Complex. Distinguished speakers from the CCDC College of Law, Ma’am Rita Matias and Sir Roderick Nierva, guided learners in understanding online grooming, laws related to OSAEC and CSAEM, and the importance of reporting harmful digital encounters. The sessions emphasized vigilance, self-advocacy, and the courage to speak up when faced with unsafe online situations.

On November 26, 2025, the Elementary Department held its seminar at Iyaman Hall, facilitated by Mr. Ulysses Dalog, an advocacy specialist. Young learners were taught to recognize unsafe online behaviors, make safe choices when using digital devices, and practice responsible internet habits. Through engaging discussions and relatable examples, children gained essential foundational skills for staying protected online.

The series wrapped up on November 28, 2025, with the Senior High School seminar led by Sir Benedict Pataras, Benguet Prosecutor for the RA 11930 while Ma’am Khalela Cacho talked about Relationship boundaries. Students engaged in thoughtful conversations about the law, consent, relationship boundaries, and practical strategies for digital self-protection. They were also encouraged to advocate for safer and more respectful digital communities within their peer groups.

Across all levels, students participated in interactive discussions, open forums, and reflective activities that strengthened both their knowledge and confidence in navigating digital spaces responsibly.

These seminars reaffirmed CCDC and its Guidance Office’s commitment to fostering digitally aware, responsible, and empowered learners reminding everyone that in today’s connected world, safety, respect, and advocacy must guide every online interaction.

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CCJE Faculty Upskills in Human Rights-Compliant Investigative Interviewing

The faculty of the College of Criminal Justice Education (CCJE) of the Cordillera Career Development College (CCDC) underwent a crucial two-day Upskilling Program focused on human rights-compliant methods of Investigative Interviewing. The said activity was held on November 22-23, 2025 at the Iyaman Hall, CCDC. The activity aimed to upgrade the learning of the participants in investigation, particularly on techniques that respect human rights as an alternative to traditional police interrogation.

The specialized seminar was made possible through collaboration of organizations dedicated to justice and human rights particularly the PCAP-CAR Chapter, UC Rights 2 Life, and the Philippine Investigation and Forensic Science Academy (PIFSA).

The intensive program featured distinguished speakers who delivered comprehensive sessions critical to modern criminal justice practices. Judge Adolfo Malingan (Ret.) tackled Oversights of Custodial Investigation, covering the causes of case dismissals, the legal and procedural foundations, offering essential insights into the legal limits and supervision governing police custody and questioning.

Dr. Rachelle B. Lintao shared on The Mendez Principles and Interviewing Child Witness which focused on the globally accepted guidelines for ethical and effective interviewing of vulnerable individuals, particularly children, ensuring that all procedures adhere strictly to human rights standards.

The second day of the session featured Dr. Rudy Gahar and PLT Pedro B Barsane Jr (Ret.) as they shared their trainings and experiences in the field of Investigative Interviewing Techniques.  It was focused on the practical application of evidence-based interviewing. They shared to the participants interviewing techniques that prioritize the ethical gathering of accurate information over coercion or confession extraction.

This professional development initiative emphasizes the CCJE’s commitment to remaining at the forefront of criminal justice education, ensuring that faculty members are equipped with the most current, ethical, and rights-compliant methodologies.

This recent relearning of faculty members is expected to impact their teachings in the different Criminology subjects involving investigation. As the CCJE Dean, Dr. Dennis M. Butag, said that “continues capacitation of faculty members is necessary to be able to continually deliver quality education to the students.”

The CCJE Faculty formally extends its profound gratitude to the CCDC Administration for consistently providing essential faculty development opportunities that elevate the college’s academic and professional standards.

By: Sheina Ledda

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CCDC Upholds Financial Transparency Through Public Financial Reports

As part of its commitment to institutional integrity and accountability, Cordillera Career Development College (CCDC) publicly discloses its audited financial data annually. 

The college’s audited financial reports, prepared by an independent certified public accountant and compliant with Philippine Financial Reporting Standards (PFRS), include detailed data on tuition income, operational expenses, assets, liabilities, and fund equity. These are compiled in CCDC’s official Annual Financial Statements and submitted to the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) in accordance with government requirements.

The financial data covers all key financial activities for each academic year ending May 31. Highlights from the most recent report include gross receipts of ₱186.08 million for 2024 and ₱145.24 million for 2023, with detailed breakdowns of direct costs, administrative expenses, and capital outlays such as solar energy equipment investments

In addition, the reports include the college’s Annual Income Tax Return (BIR Form 1702-MX) and a formal Statement of Management Responsibility for both tax filings and financial reporting. These documents affirm that CCDC’s financial disclosures are truthful, complete, and aligned with national accounting standards.

Through this regular publication of financial data, CCDC ensures that stakeholders—including students, parents, regulatory bodies, and the public—can access clear and reliable information about the institution’s financial health. 

This transparency reinforces trust in the institution’s governance and supports evidence-based planning and development, aligning with the UN Sustainable Development Goal 16 – Peace, Justice and Strong Institutions.

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CCDC Launches Formal Stakeholder Engagement Policy to Strengthen Community Collaboration

Cordillera Career Development College (CCDC) has adopted a Stakeholder Engagement Policy that reaffirms its commitment to fostering transparent, inclusive, and long-term relationships with its community and institutional partners. This development marks a significant step forward in aligning the college’s governance practices with UN Sustainable Development Goal 16 – Peace, Justice and Strong Institutions.

For years, CCDC has actively partnered with local stakeholders such as the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG), the Philippine National Police (PNP), the Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP), and various Local Government Units (LGUs). These engagements have led to joint initiatives in public safety, governance training, disaster preparedness, and legal literacy. The newly implemented policy provides a unified framework for formalizing these partnerships through Memoranda of Agreement (MOAs), collaborative planning, and shared accountability.

The Stakeholder Engagement Policy sets clear procedures for identifying key external stakeholders, formalizing agreements, coordinating joint projects, and reporting outcomes. It is rooted in five guiding principles: transparency, mutual respect, inclusiveness, accountability, and sustainability. By embedding these principles into its institutional practices, CCDC aims to ensure that all community partnerships are well-structured, impactful, and beneficial to both parties.

“This policy recognizes that our role as a higher education institution goes beyond instruction—it includes responsible engagement with the communities we serve,” CCDC President Sherry Junette Malaya-Tagle said.

“It also strengthens how we collaborate with government, civil society, and the private sector in advancing public good,” she added.

The policy applies to all academic units, departments, and extension offices across the college. It will be reviewed every three years to remain responsive to evolving needs and priorities.

Through this formalization, CCDC strengthens its position as a values-driven institution committed to democratic participation, responsive governance, and sustainable development.

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Academic Freedom Policy

Cordillera Career Development College (CCDC) strongly upholds academic freedom as essential to its mission of advancing knowledge and fostering innovation. In alignment with national and international standards, including SDG 16 (Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions), the institution guarantees faculty members the freedom to research, teach, and publish without undue interference.

Research Freedom

CCDC ensures that both senior and junior academics enjoy the liberty to explore and conduct research in their chosen fields. Research is supported through:

• Institutional and Employee-Initiated Research: Faculty may pursue their own research interests or contribute to institution-prioritized projects, provided they align with the college’s research agenda.
• Funding and Credit Units: Research efforts are supported through institutional funding, load credits, and honoraria. Faculty may apply for research units that count toward their academic workload.
• Review and Ethics Process: Proposals undergo review by the Research Office and Research Management Committee to ensure quality, ethics, and alignment with academic goals.
• Freedom to Publish: Faculty retain the right to publish or present findings in national and international venues.

These mechanisms empower academics at all ranks to meaningfully contribute to their disciplines and the community.

Teaching Freedom

CCDC affirms the right of its faculty to exercise professional judgment in teaching. This includes:

• Curriculum Design: Faculty are free to develop course content and select materials, provided they meet academic standards.
• Pedagogical Methods: Educators may use diverse teaching approaches to foster learning and student engagement.
• Assessment: Faculty have the discretion to evaluate student performance based on approved academic criteria.

Teaching freedom is practiced within a framework that promotes quality education, respect, and institutional values.

Hence, CCDC’s policy reflects international principles endorsed by UNESCO and supports the academic freedom indicator in the Times Higher Education (THE) Impact Rankings. By protecting intellectual freedom and fostering scholarly integrity, the institution contributes to building accountable and innovative academic environments.

Academic freedom at CCDC is a protected right and shared responsibility. Through structured support for research and respect for teaching autonomy, the institution creates an environment where inquiry, dialogue, and discovery can flourish—benefiting students, scholars, and society.

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CCDC adheres to inclusive governance through student, staff representation

Cordillera Career Development College adheres to a policy on inclusive governance which emphasizes the importance of involving diverse stakeholders such as students, parents, teachers, and community members in decision-making processes to ensure equitable representation and participation.

CCDC promotes transparency, accountability, and shared responsibility, fostering an environment where all voices are valued.

As such the institution recognizes the representation on the school’s highest governing body the elected representatives from the Student Government and Employees Association.

CCDC recognizes the election of the Student Government headed by its president Tzietel Jade Sacla and vice president Joemelyn Alindayo.

The results of the election:

Likewise, CCDC acknowledges the election and representation of all teaching and non-teaching employees through their duly-elected officers.

The CCDC Employees Association, who were sworn into office on December 22, 2023, are President Amor Segundo, Vice President Rovelyn Antonio, Secretary Neizel Lengset, Treasurer  Dennis Guiniguin, Auditor Jhunedy Antonio, PIO Mariel Buac, and Business Managers Fortune Diwag and Marcial Etong.

The elected presidents of both associations shall be in constant engagement with the school’s governing board as representatives of their associations.

The school reaffirms its commitment to the pursuit of excellent academic services through mutual engagement and cooperation with the representatives from the Student Government and the Employees Association.

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CCDC College of Law Conducts Participatory Consultation on Proposed Fee Adjustments

From the left: Ms. Renaluz Lamsis (CCDC-College of Law Linteg Student Organization Vice President), Mr. Reginald Libang (CCDC Vice President for Finance), Mr. Pebrano Sabiling (Budget Officer), Mr. Roderick Nierva (CCDC-College of Law Linteg Student Organization President), Atty. Czarinah Rose Gumpic (CCDC College of Law alumna and faculty member), Atty. Alexis Agmata (CCDC College of Law Dean)

The College of Law held a formal stakeholder consultation on April 29, 2024 at the Board Room to discuss the proposed tuition and miscellaneous fee adjustments for Academic Year 2024–2025. The meeting was attended by representatives from the administration, faculty, alumni, and students.

Chaired by Vice President for Finance Reginald Libang, the consultation presented the breakdown of proposed fee changes, including College of Law specific fees such as the introduction of a Clinical Legal Education (CLEP) Fund, clarification of ExamSoft subscription costs, retention of the Bar Operations Fund, and discussions on the deferment of test material fees. Students raised concerns regarding library resources, athletic fees, and facility improvements, all of which were acknowledged and addressed by the administration.

A key highlight was the planned salary standardization for law faculty, a measure intended to enhance instructional quality and faculty retention. Students expressed understanding and support for this initiative, highlighting the importance of consistent and effective teaching.

Overall, the consultation reflected CCDC’s continuing commitment to participatory decision-making, where students are engaged as partners in shaping academic and financial policies. By fostering open communication and shared responsibility, the college reinforces a culture of accountability and ensures that policies remain responsive to the needs of its community.

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Paving the Path to Justice: CCDC-Driven Research Strengthens Governance to Combat Child Exploitation in the Cordillera

The Cordillera College and Development Center (CCDC) is proud to lead the charge for evidence-based policy reform in the region, firmly upholding the mandate of Sustainable Development Goal 16: Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions. Our latest initiative, the Child Labor-Effective Awareness and Response in Cordillera Administrative Region (CLEAR CAR) Baseline Study Report, is a powerful example of policy-focused research designed to create lasting systemic change. This groundbreaking study, conducted in partnership with development specialists like World Vision and co-funded by the European Union, is not merely an academic exercise; it is a critical collaboration with provincial and municipal government departments across Benguet, Mountain Province, and Ifugao, aimed at eradicating the Worst Forms of Child Labor (WFCL) and Online Sexual Abuse or Exploitation of Children (OSAEC).

As a policy-focused undertaking, the CCDC-led research team employed a rigorous mixed-methods approach to specifically assess the operational readiness of local governance. This involved in-depth Key Informant Interviews (KII) with mayors, municipal social workers, and other key local government officials, complemented by the review of secondary data from agencies like the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE). The primary objective was to establish initial benchmarks, validate project assumptions, and, most critically, evaluate the capacity of local governance structures (LGUs) to implement effective and responsive policies against child labor and abuse. This meticulous collaboration ensures that CCDC’s findings are grounded in real-world governance challenges, making the resulting recommendations immediately actionable by our government partners.

The study’s findings revealed significant institutional gaps, underscoring the urgent need for policy support, which directly informs the CCDC’s future engagement strategy. For instance, the baseline value showed that of the 15 Local Government Units (LGUs) surveyed, none had specific ordinances or resolutions explicitly addressing the Worst Forms of Child Labor (WFCL). Furthermore, while services exist, the community’s awareness and satisfaction rates were hindered by a lack of effective mechanisms for reporting and responding to child abuse cases. This evidence demonstrates that while government departments are committed, a policy-implementation void exists—a gap that CCDC’s policy-focused research is uniquely positioned to bridge, transforming good intentions into robust institutions of justice.

In response to the evidence gathered, the CLEAR CAR study proposes a targeted blueprint for institutional strengthening. Key recommendations call for LGUs to receive support in developing and implementing specific programs for WFCL and OSAEC, establishing dedicated reporting hotlines, and increasing training for local officials and community members. By facilitating this collaborative process of policy development and capacity-building with government departments, CCDC is not only providing research but actively helping to build the “Strong Institutions” required by SDG 16. The work ensures that the government can enforce laws, respond swiftly to cases, and ultimately, safeguard the children of the Cordillera Administrative Region, creating a more just and peaceful society for all.

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CCDC Representatives Empower Young Journalists at Daklan National High School

Two representatives from theCordillera Career Development College (CCDC), Ms. Adriane Love M. IgnasandMr. Jumuel D. Lictao, served asinvited speakersat theJournalism Workshopheld onNovember 4, 2025, atDaklan National High SchoolinDaklan, Bokod, Benguet.

The workshop gathered aspiring campus journalists and student artists for a day of learning, creativity, and collaboration. It aimed to strengthen their journalistic skills while nurturing artistic expression and media literacy — important elements in achieving the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 4: Quality Education and SDG 16: Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions.

Ms. Ignas shared her expertise on feature writing, editorial writing, and news writing. She also emphasized on ethical journalism, truth-telling, and the importance of accurate and balanced reporting. She underscored that the goal of campus journalism is not just for competitions but instill social awareness, civic consciousness and responsible use of freedom speech.

Meanwhile, Mr. Lictao focused on the artistic side of journalism, particularly editorial cartooning, illustration, and layout design. His session highlighted how visual elements can effectively convey messages and complement written stories. Through hands-on drawing activities, he encouraged participants to express ideas creatively and to use art as a powerful medium for truth and advocacy. He shared that “A single drawing can tell a story, challenge ideas, and move people to act — that is the power of visual journalism”.

The Daklan National High School community expressed deep appreciation to CCDC and the guest speakers for their time, talent, and dedication to nurturing young communicators and artists. The event not only enhanced students’ journalistic and creative abilities but also strengthened their sense of civic responsibility and critical thinking. By engaging in outreach programs such as this, CCDC continues to champion transformative education and community involvement, actively supporting SDG 4 (Quality Education) by promoting learning beyond classrooms, and SDG 16 (Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions) by empowering students to use both words and art to advocate for truth, peace, and social awareness.

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