𝗕𝗘𝗡𝗘𝗖𝗢-𝗖𝗖𝗗𝗖 𝗠𝗲𝗱𝗶𝗰𝗮𝗹 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗟𝗲𝗴𝗮𝗹 𝗠𝗶𝘀𝘀𝗶𝗼𝗻 𝗦𝘂𝗰𝗰𝗲𝘀𝘀 𝗶𝗻 𝗕𝗼𝗸𝗼𝗱

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

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

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

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

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

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

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“Cordillera Career Development College: Academic Partner for Universal Health Care, Awarded at Gawad Kalusugan 2025”

Baguio City, Philippines — October 29, 2025. Cordillera Career Development College (CCDC) was among the distinguished awardees at the prestigious Gawad Kalusugan 2025, held in Baguio City. The event, organized by the Department of Health – Cordillera Administrative Region, celebrated outstanding contributions to public health leadership and governance across the region.

The Gawad Kalusugan 2025 backdrop set the tone for a vibrant and meaningful ceremony, adorned with indigenous motifs, floral arrangements, and woven baskets that reflected the rich cultural heritage of the Cordillera. Amid this festive atmosphere, CCDC representatives received a Certificate of Appreciation recognizing the institution’s unwavering commitment as an Academic Partner in the Municipal Leadership Development Program (MLDP).

Dr. Amelita M. Panglinan, Regional Director of DOH-CAR, personally signed the certificate and commended CCDC’s role in shaping responsive and accountable health governance. The award citation highlighted CCDC’s “invaluable contribution and steadfast support in promoting leadership and governance in the health sector.” Through its academic partnership, the college played a pivotal role in building the capacities of local health leaders, strengthening municipal health systems, and advancing the goals of Universal Health Care in the region. This recognition follows years of collaborative engagement between CCDC and the Department of Health, where the college provided technical expertise, training support, and institutional leadership to empower municipal health officers and stakeholders.

Captured in one of the event’s photographs, CCDC Dean of the College of Health Education, Marivel D. Muñoz, and Principal of Midwifery, Marie Fe E. Kidatan, stood proudly before the Gawad Kalusugan 2025 backdrop, holding the certificate that symbolizes the college’s impact. The image reflects not only institutional achievement but also the spirit of community, resilience, and shared purpose that defines health leadership in the Cordillera.

As CCDC continues to champion educational excellence and community engagement, this award affirms its place as a transformative force in regional development. The college remains committed to nurturing future leaders—not only in health but across sectors—who embody integrity, innovation, and service.

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Unified for Progress: JSWAP National Leaders’ Assembly Conducted Concurrently with the 51st NASWEI Convention

The Junior Social Workers Association of the Philippines (JSWAP) National organized a significant leadership-building event crafted specifically for student leaders from colleges of social work across the country. Held at the Uswag Nutrition Center in Iloilo City, the activity brought together over 100 passionate social work students who shared a collective commitment to advocacy, leadership, and social transformation. Representing CCDC were Ms. Hannah Gweneth M. Busay and Ms. Camile A. Ventura, who proudly joined delegates from various regions of the Philippines.

This JSWAP event was conducted synchronously with the 51st NASWEI Biennial Convention, where the CCDC Social Work faculty were simultaneously attending the convention and professional development engagements. The parallel conduct of these events allowed both faculty and students to participate in national-level activities that strengthened their competencies and broadened their perspectives on leadership and social work education.

One of the major undertakings of the JSWAP assembly was the drafting of the JSWAP National Constitution and By-Laws. This collaborative effort aimed to provide a unified framework that would guide the organization’s leadership, advocacy initiatives, and collective direction. By contributing their voices and insights, participants developed a deeper sense of ownership and responsibility toward strengthening the national student social work community.

The program opened with inspiring remarks from Councilor Hon. Alan Zaldivar, RSW, who encouraged the participants to embrace their identities as future changemakers in the helping profession. His message emphasized the importance of grounded leadership, compassion, and service-oriented action.

A highlight of the event was the lecture delivered by Mr. Aaron Kim Gil, titled “Future Leaders of the Helping Profession: Skills for the Next Generation.” He emphasized that while passion and compassion are essential, emerging social workers must also equip themselves with critical thinking skills, professional competence, ethical grounding, and strategic approaches to community engagement. His talk motivated students to pursue continuous personal and professional growth.

A solidarity and networking activity followed, encouraging students from different institutions to interact, share experiences, and learn from one another. This created a meaningful space for connection, reflection, and shared learning—strengthening camaraderie among future practitioners.

Due to varying travel schedules, the event concluded with the distribution of tokens and certificates to the participants, acknowledging their involvement and contributions to the national assembly.

The CCDC student delegates expressed their deep gratitude for being chosen to represent their institution and for having the opportunity to engage with fellow student leaders from across the country. Although some expectations were not fully met, they highlighted that the experience allowed them to reflect, connect, and learn from student leaders representing different social work programs nationwide. They valued the insights gained, the friendships formed, and the renewed commitment to the social work profession.

Overall, the JSWAP National Leaders’ Assembly enriched the participants’ understanding of leadership, strengthened their professional identity, and reinforced their dedication to becoming compassionate, competent, and community-centered social workers.

By:

Hannah Gweneth M. Busay (SW 3^rd year Students)

Camile A. Ventura (SW 3^rd year Students

Kimberlyn M. Valdez

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Artificial Intelligence (AI) in Research and Navigating the Publication Process:A Seminar-Workshop by the CCDC Graduate School

The Graduate School of Cordillera Career Development College (CCDC) conducted an in-campus seminar-workshop on “Artificial Intelligence (AI) in Research and Navigating the Publication Process” for its graduate students enrolled in Thesis Writing on November 29, 2025. The activity provided the students with information on using proper prompts to communicate with AI applications, identifying potential ethical violations on AI use, packaging research or thesis tailored to the publication journal requirements, and responding appropriately to journal/peer reviewers’ comments.

Mr. Daniel Jr. S. Balbin and Dr. Tecah C. Sagandoy, from CCDC’s partner institution, Benguet State University, were the resource speakers. The seminar-workshop was facilitated by the Graduate School Student Organization officers.

This activity is part of the Capability and Research Engagement (CaRE) program of CCDC Graduate School.

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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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𝗖𝗖𝗗𝗖 𝗦𝗼𝗰𝗶𝗮𝗹 𝗪𝗼𝗿𝗸 𝗙𝗮𝗰𝘂𝗹𝘁𝘆 𝗣𝗮𝗿𝘁𝗶𝗰𝗶𝗽𝗮𝘁𝗲𝗱 𝗶𝗻 𝘁𝗵𝗲 51𝘀𝘁 𝗡𝗔𝗦𝗪𝗘𝗜 𝗕𝗶𝗲𝗻𝗻𝗶𝗮𝗹 𝗖𝗼𝗻𝘃𝗲𝗻𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻 2025

The Social Work Department of the Cordillera Career Development College (CCDC) actively participated in the 51st National Association for Social Work Education, Inc. (NASWEI) Biennial Convention held on November 26–28, 2025, at the Grand Xing Imperial Hotel, Iloilo City. With the theme “Reimagining Social Work Education: Innovating for an Inclusive, Intergenerational, and Sustainable Future,” the national gathering brought together social work educators, practitioners, and experts from across the country, as well as guests from other nations, to engage in meaningful discussions on the evolving landscape of social work education and practice.

CCDC was represented by three faculty members—Dean Melody Calpase-Ducat, Ms. Kimberlyn M. Valdez, and Ms. Aelline G. Carame. Their participation demonstrated the institution’s strong commitment to continuous professional development and academic excellence.

The convention served as a significant platform for professional learning, networking, and collaboration, providing participants with valuable exposure to emerging trends, innovations, and best practices in social work education and practice. It also opened opportunities to engage with national experts and colleagues from various higher education institutions, strengthening professional networks essential for the advancement of the field.

The event showcased a rich program of plenary sessions, forums, and research presentations that highlighted crucial aspects of the social work profession. These sessions enhanced the knowledge and skills of educators and practitioners while fostering meaningful dialogue within the field. Guided by respected speakers and panelists, participants explored sustainable and innovative approaches designed to keep social work practices grounded in ethical principles and responsive to societal changes. The discussions underscored the importance of ensuring relevance in the present while building resilience for the future.

Through their participation, the CCDC Social Work faculty gained significant insights that would enhance instructional approaches, strengthen academic strategies, and support the continued alignment of the college’s programs with both national and international standards. The learnings drawn from the convention were expected to contribute to the department’s ongoing efforts in curriculum enhancement, faculty competency development, and the preparation of globally responsive and future-ready social work graduates.

Driven by progress and hope, NASWEI renewed its commitment to preparing social workers with the knowledge, skills, and values essential for building inclusive, sustainable, and resilient communities. More than just a gathering, the NASWEI convention stood as a cornerstone of social work education, a carefully designed platform that continues to guide the profession toward creating lasting positive change for a better future.

Lastly, the faculty expressed their heartfelt gratitude to the CCDC administration for its unwavering support of faculty development initiatives. Their participation in this prestigious national event was made possible through the institution’s commitment to empowering its educators, fostering professional growth, and ensuring that the Social Work Department remains at the forefront of quality social work education. The faculty conveyed their appreciation for the trust, encouragement, and continued opportunities provided by the institution’s support, which inspires them to bring back enriched knowledge and renewed dedication to their students and the institution.

Ultimately, the convention inspired educators and practitioners alike to carry forward renewed purpose, strengthened collaboration, and innovative approaches that will empower the next generation of social workers to champion positive change for a better and more compassionate tomorrow.

By: Kimberlyn M. Valdez

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CCDC Hosts 3^rd C.U.B.E. Quarterly Meeting, Driving Quality Assurance and Community Collaboration

La Trinidad, Benguet — November 29, 2025. The Cordillera Career Development College (CCDC) hosted the 3rd Quarterly Meeting of the C.U.B.E. Management Exchange (CUBE ME), a multi-institutional initiative committed to “A Collaboration for Excellence.” Held from 8:00 AM to 12:00 NN, the event brought together academic leaders, quality assurance officers, research directors, and extension coordinators from partner institutions within Baguio  City.

The host represented by  Atty. Annabelle B. Gondales, the  Vice  President for  Administration, warmly welcomed the participants. Then the meeting was highlighted with the presentation of Dr. Kareen B. Leon, QAO Director of the University of Baguio (UB), on their ongoing progress toward internationalization through strengthened quality assurance systems. Her presentation was also complemented by  Dr. Janice Kaylyn  K. Lonogan, their  Vice  President for  Academic  Affairs.  Their session emphasized the strategic role of quality assurance in positioning higher education institutions for global engagement and accreditation. Following the presentation, Ms. Jessica Balag-ey,  Research Director of Easter College Inc. (ECI), facilitated the open forum, allowing participants to exchange insights on institutional development through quality assurance.

The presentation was then transitioned to the second part, which is the meeting regarding the C.U.B.E’s initiatives with their partnership with  Atok. Dr. Corazon L. Ocden, CCDC Research Director, led the business meeting segment, which focused on the updates and planning for the ongoing community-based initiatives. Dr. Ocden highlighted the timeline for the implementation of the community profiling activity that was requested by the  8 barangays of  Atok.  Then it was followed by the updates on   CUBE’s MOA accomplishments.  Dr. Michael Sebullen, BCU Research Director, highlighted the fruitful accomplishments in research partnership activities,  extension activities, and  Quality Assurance capacity building.

The meeting was then concluded with a proposal from  Dr. Donnavila Marie Panday-Herbster, UB RIECO Director, on the plan to conduct a  National Teachers’ Congress.

As the meeting concluded at noon, participants left with renewed commitment to collaborative excellence and community impact. The discussions on internationalization, extension activities, and future congress planning underscored the strength of C.U.B.E. as a dynamic consortium of academic institutions. With actionable plans and strengthened partnerships, the 3rd Quarterly Meeting marked another milestone in advancing quality assurance and educational innovation across the region.

As C.U.B.E. continues to evolve, its member institutions remain united in purpose—building bridges across communities, empowering local leaders, and advancing quality assurance as a cornerstone of educational transformation.

“C.U.B.E ME (C.U.B.E Management Exchange) is a collaborative initiative among Cordillera Career Development College (CCDC), University of Baguio (UB), Baguio Central University (BCU), and Easter College Inc. (ECI) that aims to strengthen partnerships in higher education through shared best practices in research, extension, and quality assurance. CUBE ME is more than just a meeting of institutions—it represents a regional movement toward academic excellence and sustainability. By working together, these universities and colleges are building a stronger educational ecosystem that benefits students, faculty, and the wider community.”

by: Jacqueline C. Acod

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CCDC Graduate School Students Facilitated DRRM Capability Program at Adaoay National High School, Kabayan, Benguet

As part of the Graduate School Capability and Research Engagement (CaRE) Program of Cordillera Career Development College (CCDC), the graduate students in the class of Prof. Janet A. Lee organized an extension activity in partnership with Adaoay National High School in Kabayan, Benguet, on November 19-20, 2025. The class invited resource speakers, took responsibility for the food and tokens, and facilitated the event. The two-day activity focused on Disaster Risk Reduction Management (DRRM)Training for teachers and students to equip them with information and skills required for disaster preparedness, response, and recovery.  

The first day highlighted two topics, with corresponding demonstrations from the speakers, and a return demonstration from the participants. The first topic was on cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR). It was handled by Ms.  Darcy B. Agustin, a 2015 Midwifery alumnus of CCDC. The demonstration was facilitated by Ms. Jeanette M. Padday, a 2017 CCDC Midwifery alumnus, and Ms. Jenifer T. Panganiban, another midwife.  The second topic was on fire safety. FO3 Ryan Santos, from the Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP), discussed the components of the fire extinguisher and how to use it properly.

On the second day, the BFP team conducted an earthquake and fire drill. The hands-on experiences that were provided by the resource speakers and facilitators boosted the confidence of the participants. The activity was successful, with one of the resource speakers mentioning that this was the first time they had given a lecture and demonstration on DRRM in a school.  She added that they hope to hold more lectures in the future, ideally for longer periods, so that they can provide the participants with more in-depth discussions.

By:

Kathleen Sagada

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CCDC Receives Recognition as Partner in Health of the Local Government Unit of the Municipality of La Trinidad, Province of Benguet

The Municipality of La Trinidad – Municipal Health Office recognized Cordillera Career Development College (CCDC) as one of its “Kadwa ti Salun-at, Binnadang Heroes” or partners in health during the 3^rd La Trinidad Salun-at Awards on November 28, 2025 held in the municipality’s gymnasium.

The citation specifically expresses the local government’s recognition of CCDC’s strong support in strengthening public health programs especially for the STD-HIV/AIDS prevention promotion in schools by providing an enabling environment to the program’s implementation during the NAMNAMA (Nurturing Awareness, Mobilizing Networks, and Advocating to Mitigate the impact of AIDS and STIs) Campus Tours. The award was received for CCDC by its Vice President for Academics, Atty. Abigail T. Bersamin.

CCDC’s partnership with the municipality and community engagement on health programs are made possible through its College of Health Education that currently offers Bachelor of Science in Nursing, Bachelor of Science in Midwifery, and Bachelor of Science in Pharmacy.

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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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