Consumer’s Welfare Month: Student Empowerment through Hands-On Product Packaging, Labeling, and Resin Jewelry Design

The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) conducted a Product Packaging, Labeling, and Resin Jewelry Design Workshop on November 18, 2025, held at the CCDC Board Room and SHS Iyaman Hall. The activity gathered the BS Entrepreneurship and BS Office Administration students of Cordillera Career Development College for a practical session focused on proper packaging standards, accurate product labeling, and creative resin jewelry crafting.

DTI Resource Speakers, Ms. Necy Calawa and Ms. Rashaira Decoran Tome, discussed essential packaging principles, mandatory label elements, branding, and legal requirements set by national standards. Students learned about product identity, manufacturer information, net weight, ingredients, lot numbers, and expiration dates.

For the creative component, guest facilitator, Ms. Moricca Serreno, introduced the basics of resin jewelry making, teaching techniques, safety practices, and design methods that allowed participants to express creativity through personalized jewelry pieces.

The students then applied their knowledge through hands-on activities: designing their own product labels and creating resin jewelry. These activities strengthened both their technical accuracy and artistic skills.

The program concluded with the awarding of certificates, leaving participants more equipped to produce compliant, attractive, and consumer-friendly products. The workshop emphasized a key message: informed producers help create informed and protected consumers.

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LT LGU, CCDC FORMALIZE MOU TO STRENGTHEN PARTNERSHIP IN HEALTH, EDUCATION, AND POLICY-DRIVEN RESEARCH

The Local Government Unit (LGU) of La Trinidad and the Cordillera Career Development College (CCDC) formally strengthened their partnership through the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) on research and development earlier today.

Representing the Municipality of La Trinidad were Mayor Roderick Awingan and Dr. Antonette Agpas, while CCDC President Dr. Sherry Junette Tagle and Research Director Dr. Corazon Ocden signed on behalf of the academic institution, with Marivel D Munoz, Dean of the College of Health Education as witness.

The partnership underscores a shared commitment to advancing health and wellness, quality education, and evidence-based policy formulation through collaborative research initiatives. The MOU focuses on the production of research outputs aligned with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly in the areas of public health, disaster risk reduction and management, social welfare, tourism development, and public safety and crime prevention.

Through this collaboration, the LGU and CCDC aim to generate data-driven studies that will inform local policies, enhance program implementation, and contribute to sustainable community development. The partnership highlights the critical role of academic institutions in supporting local governments with research that responds to real community needs.

Mayor Awingan further emphasized the importance of transparency and public engagement by recommending that research outputs be formally presented and shared with stakeholders, ensuring that findings reach the widest possible audience and contribute meaningfully to decision-making processes.

The MOU marks a significant step toward strengthening collaboration between the academe and the local government in pursuit of inclusive growth, improved health outcomes, and sustainable development in La Trinidad.

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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.

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CCDC Joins CHED-CAR’s Culminating Activity for the 18-Day Campaign to End Violence Against Women

The Cordillera Career Development College (CCDC), through its College of Law Community Legal Aid Center, took part in the Commission on Higher Education–CAR’s culminating activity for the 18-Day Campaign to End Violence Against Women held on December 15, 2025.

Representing the institution was Mr. Roderick Nierva, a law student practitioner from the CCDC College of Law, who delivered an informative discussion on three laws that safeguard women and children: Republic Act No. 9262 (Anti-Violence Against Women and Their Children Act), Republic Act No. 7877 (Anti-Sexual Harassment Act), and Republic Act No. 11313 (Safe Spaces Act). His presentation aimed to deepen public understanding of legal protections and empower CHED-CAR employees to recognize and respond to gender-based violence.

Joining him was Atty. Abigail Bersamin, Vice President for Academic Affairs, who served as the supervising lawyer for the engagement. Their participation highlighted the institution’s dedication to community legal education and its active role in supporting national efforts to eliminate violence

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CCDC Bags Multiple Awards at Benguet Division Schools Press Conference (DSPC) 2025

The Cordillera Career Development College (CCDC) student journalist secured numerous awards at the Benguet Division Schools Press Conference (DSPC) 2025 held in Kapangan, Benguet on December 9-12, 2025.

The Cordillera Compass delegation earned top placements in individual and group categories, including a championship finish in Sci-Tech Writing (Filipino) and a second-place win in Online Publishing (English, marking a strong return in its second participation after years of absence.

CCDC’s highest individual honor came from Hanabeth D. Payang, who clinched 1st Place in Sci-Tech Writing (Filipino) qualifying her to join the regional press conference.

Other notable rankings include Hanzen Egrin D, Pico, 4th place in Editorial Cartooning (English); Mhel Jane L. Bravo, 4th Place in Mobile Journalism (English), Ryan Victor B. Eyeg, 7th place in Sports Writing (English); Xhierelle Nicole D. Mauricio, 7th Place in Editorial Writing (English); and Khizar R. Mazher, 10th Place in Mobile Journalism (Filipino).

CCDC also placed 6th overall in individual performance, marking one of the school’s best DSPC showing in recent years.

Group competitions also proved successful for the delegation. The Online Publishing (English) team members, Lara Faye C. Canuto, Joana May D. Ariaga, Hanzen Egrin D. Pico, Shalina Faith P. Luis, and Pracela T. Lamichhane, achieved 2nd Place, while the Online Publishing (Filipino) team including Angelo James A. Ligmayo, Aechelle Pearl C. Sawey, Jhezelle Kai E. Vicente, Jassy B. Uy, and Wileen C. An gel secured 5th Place. In Collaborative Publishing (English), the team Sherieka S. Celes, Chaiane Eden P. Diwas, Ayesha Shyna T. Villacencio, Jemzel Kate G. Tolabis, Yazmeen L. Abdul Latif, Kiara L. Berking, and Adrienna Celine W. Paleng placed 10th. The school’s News Page entry finished 9th place.

The Cordillera Compas delegation was guided by Advisers Ms. Diana M. Brudo, Ms Adriane Love M. Ignas, Ms. Krishelle Depayso and Ms. Levi-Ruth Pokling and with special assistance from Mr. Iverson Arce. School administrators including the School President Dr. Sherry Junette M. Tagle, Basic Education Principal Rosaria M. Pes-oyen, SHS Coordinator Amor B. Segundo, and JHS Coordinator Beverly M. Milo also provided support for the school’s participation.

Other delegates who contributed to the school’s representation included Frances Nicole M. Lahboy, Savannah Signey P. Johnson, Ryan Dominic C. Elis, Jarlene C. Agno, Neri Jhay S. Dis-ag, Maegan Jem G. Tolabis, and Scaskea P. Fagyan.

The four-day conference gathered student journalists from across Benguet, with more then seventy partifcipating schools, in the secondary level to compete in various journalistic fields, aiming to enhance campus press excellence.

CCDC’s renewed presence at the DSPC signals growing momentum for its journalism program and continued commitment to developing young journalist in the region.

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CCDC Joins the 2025 PHILED Conference: Changing the Narrative of Philippine Education by Making Reforms Work

CCDC proudly highlights its active participation in the 2025 PHILED Conference, held on December 3–4, 2025 at the SMX Convention Center in Pasay City. With the theme “Changing the Narrative of Philippine Education by Making Reforms Work,” this national gathering convened educators, policymakers, and school leaders committed to driving meaningful and forward-looking reforms across the Philippine education landscape.

Representing the institution were Melvin B. Ngayaan, Serafin A. Padio-an, Jaypee D. Camolo, Beverly M. Milo and Rosaria M. Pes-oyen, who actively participated in the plenary sessions, breakout discussions, and collaborative workshops. Their engagement demonstrated our school’s commitment to educational innovation and continuous improvement.

Across two days, the conference featured compelling sessions that explored both the current state and the future direction of Philippine education. Key presentations included:

  • The State of Philippine Education: Reforms and Opportunities
    Delivered by Hon. Juan Edgardo M. Angara, this session presented a comprehensive overview of the country’s education system—examining its present challenges, ongoing reforms, and emerging opportunities to strengthen learning delivery, school governance, and policy implementation.
  • Education Policy and Futures Thinking: Emerging Trends and Opportunities for the Philippine Education
    Presented by Dr. Adrian Kuah, this session emphasized the importance of futures thinking in crafting education policies. Participants were introduced to global trends, strategic foresight tools, and innovative policy directions aimed at building a future-ready Philippine education system.

These discussions provided the delegates with valuable insights that will help the institution align with evolving national policies, anticipate educational shifts, and implement reforms that deliver long-term, positive impact on student learning.

Further, CCDC’s participation in the PHILED Conference directly supports SDG 4: Quality Education, which promotes equitable, inclusive, and high-quality learning for all. By joining national conversations on reforms and future policy directions, CCDC reaffirms its dedication to educational excellence and its commitment to aligning institutional initiatives with both national priorities and global development goals.

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Basic Education Elementary Department Strengthens Advocacy and Awareness Through Infographics, Poster Making, and NutriQuiz Activities

In the Month of November, the CCDC Basic Education Department recently carried out a series of advocacy-driven activities aimed at promoting awareness, creativity, and responsible decision-making among learners. These initiatives included the Infographics Contest, Poster Making Contests, and the NutriQuiz, each designed to enhance students’ understanding of important social and health issues.

The Infographics Contest, held under the theme “Drug Abuse Prevention and Control (DAPC),” invited students to convert factual information on drug prevention into concise, visually compelling presentations. Representatives Jett Andrie L. Salbino and Saphira Klea Hailee B. Bolas a grade 3 students produced entries that demonstrated strong digital literacy and an ability to communicate advocacy messages effectively. This activity was organized by the La Trinidad Municipal Social Welfare and Development Office (MSWD), underscoring the municipal government’s support for youth-focused prevention programs.

Two separate Poster Making Contests were also held. The first organized by the Municipal Social Welfare and Development Office, centered on the theme “OSAEC–CSAEM Wakasan: Kaligtasan at Karapatan ng Bata, Ipaglaban,” highlighting the importance of protecting children from online abuse and exploitation. Representing this category was a grade 5 student, Leema Shanum A. Manis, whose artwork emphasized child rights and digital safety. The activity also featured a recital presentation by Faith D. Payang a grade 5 student, who delivered a meaningful interpretation aligned with the same advocacy.

A second poster-making entry, organized by the La Trinidad Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (DRRMC), focused on Disaster Risk Reduction and Management (DRRMC), showcased the creativity and awareness of Princess W. Bandao a grade 6 student, who visually expressed the importance of preparedness and community resilience.

To further reinforce Health education, the La Trinidad Municipal Health Office held the annual NutriQuiz, an interactive competition designed to assess students’ knowledge of nutrition, healthy eating habits, and overall wellness. This year’s participants are grade 6 students included Princess W. Bandao and Alyshialyhn Jaira Cadangen, who both demonstrated commendable enthusiasm and understanding of the subject matter.

These activities reflect the Basic Education Elementary Department’s holistic approach to student development: nurturing learners who are academically capable, socially aware, and health-literate. The department extends its appreciation to the students, teachers, parents, and partner offices whose contributions ensured the success of these initiatives. In particular, the collaboration with the La Trinidad MSWD, DRRMC, and the Municipal Health Office highlights the value of coordinated community efforts in advancing child protection, public health, and disaster preparedness education.

The department remains committed to sustaining and expanding such advocacy-driven programs that empower young people to become informed, responsible, and resilient members of their communities.

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ʙᴇɴᴄʜᴍᴀʀᴋɪɴɢ ᴠɪꜱɪᴛ ꜱᴛʀᴇɴɢᴛʜᴇɴꜱ ᴍᴜᴛᴜᴀʟ ʟᴇᴀʀɴɪɴɢ ʙᴇᴛᴡᴇᴇɴ ᴄᴄᴅᴄ ᴀɴᴅ ᴄᴘᴜ ᴏꜰ ɪʟᴏɪʟᴏ ᴄɪᴛʏ

The Social Work Department of the Cordillera Career Development College (CCDC) conducted a formal benchmarking visit on November 29, 2025, at Central Philippine University (CPU) in Iloilo City. This activity was held a day after the 51st NASWEI Biennial Convention and the JSWAP National Leaders’ Assembly/Conference, which the faculty and students respectively attended. Beyond gathering information, the benchmarking served as a collaborative exchange that enabled both institutions to share best practices, institutional strengths, and innovations in social work education.

The CCDC delegation was composed of Dean Melody Calpase-Ducat, Kimberlyn M. Valdez, and Aelline G. Carame, along with student representatives, Hannah Gweneth Busay and Camile Ventura. They were warmly received by CPU Social Work Department members led by Department Chairperson Kareen Lozada and faculty member Ms. Ella Contreras, who facilitated the discussions and campus tour.

CPU, a respected institution with 120 years of educational history, presented an overview of its long-standing academic excellence and its robust quality assurance mechanisms. Of particular significance is CPU’s PAASCU Level III accreditation for several of its programs, including the Social Work program—an affirmation of its sustained commitment to high academic standards, institutional effectiveness, and continuous quality improvement.

During the benchmarking dialogue, CPU shared key institutional practices involving curriculum implementation, research advancement, field instruction supervision, student formation, and community engagement. The team also emphasized their organizational culture, support structures, and well-established partnerships with agencies across various sectors, further highlighting the strengths of their Social Work program.

In reciprocation, the CCDC Social Work faculty presented several good practices and ongoing initiatives within the department. These included academic enrichment activities, student-led programs, community-based engagements, and faculty development efforts. The CCDC delegation also shared updates on the College’s growing involvement in international recognitions and ranking frameworks, such as WURI (World’s Universities with Real Impact), UI GreenMetric, and other global assessments that underscore innovation, sustainability, and social responsibility. This exchange fostered insightful conversations on how international benchmarks can inform and elevate local educational standards and institutional direction.

The visit extended beyond formal discussions, as CPU representatives graciously toured the CCDC group around notable areas of the campus. This enabled the visitors to appreciate CPU’s learning environment, historical landmarks, and institutional culture—further enriching the overall benchmarking experience.

In summary, the activity underscored the value of reciprocal learning and inter-institutional collaboration. Both CCDC and CPU benefited from shared insights, reflective discussions, and the exchange of innovative practices that help strengthen the quality of social work education in the Philippines. The November 29 benchmarking visit stands as a meaningful milestone for the CCDC Social Work Department, offering guidance for future improvements in curriculum development, accreditation efforts, research advancement, and student development. Moreover, it opened pathways for potential long-term partnership and academic cooperation between the two institutions.By: Kimberlyn M. Valdez
Photos from: Ms. Kareen Lozada (CPU SW Department Chairperson)

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“𝓢𝓽𝓻𝓮𝓼𝓼 𝓲𝓼 𝓪 𝓢𝓲𝓰𝓷𝓪𝓵 𝓽𝓸 𝓢𝓵𝓸𝔀 𝓓𝓸𝔀𝓷, 𝓝𝓞𝓣 𝓪 𝓼𝓲𝓰𝓷 𝓽𝓸 𝓴𝓮𝓮𝓹 𝓹𝓾𝓼𝓱𝓲𝓷𝓰 𝓾𝓷𝓽𝓲𝓵 𝔂𝓸𝓾 𝓑𝓻𝓮𝓪𝓴.”

Many students struggle to balance their academic tasks, personal responsibilities, and daily challenges. With all these pressures, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. To help students better understand and manage these experiences, the Social Work Major Circle (SWMC) officers facilitated and organized a seminar titled “Mind in Balance: A Seminar on Caring for Your Mental Health and Coping with Stress.” The activity was conducted on November 24, 2025, at the Iyaman Hall, Dakilan Building, Cordillera Career Development College (CCDC).

A total of 173 students from first-year to third-year levels participated in the event. Two guest speakers from the Philippine Mental Health Association – Cordillera Chapter served as resource persons.

The first speaker, Ms. Dully Mae B. Calicdan, a licensed psychometrician and Program Relations Officer, discussed practical ways to care for one’s mental health. She highlighted the importance of regulating emotions, recognizing early signs of stress, seeking professional help when needed, and building healthy coping habits.

The second speaker, Ms. Catherine Mae A. Empleo, also a licensed psychometrician and EAD-PRO, focused on understanding stress and responding to it effectively. She shared helpful insights on identifying stress triggers, practicing healthy coping strategies, managing time wisely, seeking support from others, and maintaining self-care to build resilience. Ms. Empleo reminded everyone that stress often builds up slowly—and even small problems can affect our well-being. This is why dealing with stress early on and breaking tasks into manageable steps can make a big difference, instead of ignoring them until they become too heavy.

After the talks, students joined a short activity where they wrote positive messages or inspirational quotes. These were collected, mixed, and randomly redistributed. Volunteers then read their messages aloud, filling the room with encouragement and creating an atmosphere of support.

To all students, remember this: challenges will always be part of life, and sometimes they will feel too much. But every time we choose to face stress with courage, self-awareness, and healthy habits, we grow stronger. By taking care of ourselves—mind, body, and emotions—we become more prepared to handle whatever comes our way.

In moments of pressure, pause, breathe, and choose to take care of yourself—because your well-being is your greatest strength.

By: Ms. Camile A. Ventura, SWMC Vice Governor

Photo Layout by: Jhulie N. Alangwawi, SWMC Vice Mayor

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Bridging Hope: RRCY-CAR and CCDC-CTE Forge Partnership to Empower Literacy for Children in Conflict with the Law

“Education is non-negotiable. Let us not deny them their basic right. If we are able to transform even one child through education, then that would already be a great achievement.”

These powerful words from Rojhelea An Marie Claur, Center Head of the Regional Rehabilitation Center for Youth (RRCY–CAR), echo the global call of Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 4: Quality Education, emphasizing that inclusive and equitable learning opportunities must extend to all—especially to children in conflict with the law who are among the most vulnerable.

With this vision, RRCY–CAR partnered with the College of Teacher Education (CTE) of the Cordillera Career Development College (CCDC) to uplift academic literacy and enhance the learning confidence of the youth under its care. This initiative also strongly supports SDG 10: Reduced Inequalities, as it bridges learning gaps and ensures that marginalized learners are not left behind.

On December 10, 2025, an orientation was conducted by Jaypee M. Nuñez, Center Nurse of RRCY–CAR. Present during the activity were Dr. Juvy O. Baso, Dean of CTE; Dr. Arlene A. Palasico, Program Coordinator for BSED English and General Education Language; Jeff J. Abanag, Program Coordinator for BSED Mathematics and General Education Math; Marfrelyn Angyatao, Program Coordinator for BTLED and General Education TLE; Laurence L. Ablaza, Program Coordinator for Social Studies and General Education Social Studies; and Madel L. Telesforo, CTE Office Assistant, along with the participating pre-service teachers. Their active participation underscores SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals, demonstrating how strong collaboration between government institutions and educational organizations can foster meaningful and sustainable social impact.

This collaboration marks the first deployment of CTE pre-service teachers to RRCY–CAR for internship, a pioneering step toward community-rooted, inclusive education. Prior to their deployment, the pre-service teachers underwent a comprehensive orientation facilitated by Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) personnel from the regional office in Baguio City. This preparation ensures they are equipped with the proper approaches, sensitivity, and protocols needed when working with children in conflict with the law—further contributing to SDG 16: Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions, which advocates for the protection and rehabilitation of vulnerable youth.

This initiative is under the L.I.G.H.T (Literacy Integration and Guided Holistic Tutoring) Program, a transformative learning designed to support both the academic and personal development of Children in Conflict with the Law (CICL) housed at the DSWD–Regional Rehabilitation Center for Youth, and in line with CCDC’s curriculum-based community engagements. The L.I.G.H.T Program reinforces the partnership’s commitment to providing meaningful, compassionate, and rights-based education for every learner.

Apalasico/2025

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