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

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 3rd 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.

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

November 2025 National Reading Month

The College of Teacher Education Students of CCDC Bring Stories

to Life to Puguis Elementary School Pupils in November 2025 National Reading Month

November is National Reading Month in the Philippines, celebrated nationwide through the Department of Education (DepEd) Memorandum Order No. 44-2011. Its highlight is National Reading Day, or “Araw ng Pagbasa,” held every November 27th under Republic Act No.10556. This celebration promotes the importance of reading as a foundation for learning and growth.

This year, the Cordillera Career Development College (CCDC) – College of Teacher Education (CTE) joined the nationwide celebration by participating as storytellers for elementary pupils. The CTE students visited Puguis Elementary School and joyfully shared stories with elementary learners. Using expressive voices, lively gestures, and interactive activities, they brought stories to life and created meaningful connections with the children.

CTE student, Ms. Kurtny Dane G. Pedrin, shared, “I was happy to see that many of the pupils genuinely enjoyed the way we told the story. Their smiles and reactions made the experience more meaningful for us.”

Meanwhile, Mr. Ace Y. Yubos, Mr. Hector S. Tipayno, Ms. Prynces Nicole T. Robillos, Ms. Vilma C. Singson, and Ms. Love Joy S. Lacaden expressed that the experience became more than just a storytelling activity. It is a valuable opportunity for future educators like them to test and strengthen their confidence and teaching skills. The activity was under the guidance of CCDC-CTE faculty member, Ms. Bliss T. Bacacao.

The faculty of Puguis Elementary School expressed appreciation for the excellent performance of the CTE students. They also provided constructive feedback, noting that while the storytelling delivery was impressive, there is room for improvement in developing more creative and appropriate instructional materials. Reading opens doors to imagination, discovery, and lifelong learning. Through activities like storytelling, CCDC–CTE continues to support DepEd’s advocacy of nurturing a love for reading among young learners. On the other hand, this kind of activity is an avenue by which the CTE students are exposed to experiential learning in real field settings that reinforce their theoretical activities in their curricular courses.

CCDC Joins Baguio City’s Launch of Its First SDG Voluntary Local Review

Cordillera Career Development College (CCDC) joined the launch of Baguio City’s first Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) Voluntary Local Review (VLR) held on June 10, 2025, at Ion Hotel, Legarda Road, Baguio City.

The event, organized by the City Government of Baguio in partnership with the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), marked a historic milestone in local governance highlighting Baguio City’s commitment to transparency, accountability, and sustainable progress toward achieving the United Nations’ 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development.

CCDC’s participation signifies its continuous support for sustainability-driven initiatives and its alignment with the global SDG framework. The College recognizes that education plays a vital role in shaping environmentally responsible and socially conscious citizens who contribute to the region’s sustainable development.

The launch featured keynote messages from Mayor Benjamin B. Magalong and UNDP Resident Representative Selva Ramachandran, followed by the presentation of the VLR results, community expressions of support from various sectors including the youth, academe, and civil society and the ceremonial signing of Baguio’s SDG commitments.

Through its involvement, CCDC reaffirms its dedication to advancing the SDGs not only within the campus but also across the wider community. This participation aligns with the institution’s recent 2024–2025 Sustainability Report, which documents over 177 SDG-aligned initiatives implemented through student and departmental projects.

As CCDC continues to strengthen its sustainability programs and partnerships, its engagement in the SDG-VLR launch underscores a shared vision with the City of Baguio: to build a livable, inclusive, and creative city where education, innovation, and collaboration drive lasting change.

CCDC Integrates the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) Across the Curriculum

Cordillera Career Development College maintains its strong commitment to meaningful education through the integration of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) into both general and professional courses.

Integrating the SDGs in all facets of its academic and non-academic systems pursues the vision of CCDC to be the center of quality education for culturally diverse and global learners. It promotes quality and meaningful education which puts a prime on sustainability, inclusivity, and global citizenship which is relevant and applicable to all students.

Integration of SDG Education in General Courses

CCDC ensures that sustainability principles and SDG concepts are embedded across all academic programs through general education courses such as the National Service Training Program (NSTP), Science, Technology, and Society (SciTech 1), and Social Science subjects.

  • National Service Training Program (NSTP):
    NSTP provides experiential learning by engaging students in outreach programs that promote SDG 1 (No Poverty), SDG 3 (Good Health and Well-being), SDG 13 (Climate Action), and SDG 16 (Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions). Projects include tree planting, medical missions, and community clean-up drives—allowing students to apply sustainable principles in real-world community settings.
  • Science, Technology, and Society (SciTech 1):
    Students explore the relationship between technological advancement and sustainability. Lessons emphasize responsible innovation and environmental ethics, linking directly to SDG 7 (Affordable and Clean Energy), SDG 9 (Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure), and SDG 12 (Responsible Consumption and Production).
  • Social Science Courses:
    Topics such as globalization, culture, governance, and civic engagement integrate SDG 4 (Quality Education), SDG 5 (Gender Equality), and SDG 10 (Reduced Inequalities). Through critical discussion and reflection, students develop awareness of their social responsibility and the importance of sustainable development in addressing global and local issues.

Integration of SDG Education in Major and Professional Programs

Beyond general education, CCDC embeds SDG themes in professional courses across its various colleges, ensuring that all programs contribute meaningfully to sustainable development.

  • College of Teacher Education (CTE):
    The CTE trains future educators to embed sustainability in teaching and learning practices. Courses promote SDG 4 (Quality Education), SDG 5 (Gender Equality), and SDG 10 (Reduced Inequalities). Pre-service teachers conduct literacy drives, tutorial sessions, and educational outreach that strengthen inclusivity and community engagement, preparing them to educate the next generation of sustainability-minded learners.
  • College of Criminal Justice Education (CCJE):
    SDG 16 (Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions) is central to the CCJE curriculum. Through subjects on human rights, law enforcement ethics, and community relations, students are trained to uphold justice, integrity, and peace. They conduct voter education campaigns, community policing initiatives, and crime prevention seminars that translate classroom learning into public service and social advocacy.
  • College of Business Education and Administration (CBEA):
    Courses on entrepreneurship, management, and economics integrate SDG 8 (Decent Work and Economic Growth) and SDG 12 (Responsible Consumption and Production). Students develop business plans emphasizing ethical enterprise, financial literacy, and sustainability practices that promote inclusive economic growth.
  • College of Accountancy:
    The Accountancy program incorporates SDG 8 (Decent Work and Economic Growth) and SDG 16 (Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions) by teaching accountability, transparency, and ethical financial management. Through simulations and projects, students learn sustainable business reporting and how financial systems can support social responsibility and environmental stewardship.
  • College of Law:
    Legal education at CCDC integrates SDG 16 and SDG 17 by promoting access to justice, legal empowerment, and institutional transparency. Law students participate in free legal aid clinics, community lectures on rights awareness, and discussions on environmental law—cultivating future legal professionals who advocate for fairness, equity, and sustainability in governance and community development.
  • College of Health Education (CHE):
    CHE reinforces SDG 3 (Good Health and Well-being) by emphasizing preventive care, health education, and community wellness. Programs include health advocacy campaigns, medical missions, and public health seminars that promote physical and mental well-being.
  • College of Social Work (CSW):
    The CSW aligns with SDG 10 (Reduced Inequalities) and SDG 17 (Partnerships for the Goals). Students work closely with communities and local partners to empower marginalized sectors through outreach, livelihood training, and psychosocial support.

Commitment to Meaningful Education

CCDC’s integration of SDG concepts across all curricula ensures that every student—regardless of course or specialization—develops a deep understanding of global challenges and local sustainability needs. This holistic approach nurtures graduates who are socially aware, environmentally conscious, and globally competent.

Through this commitment, CCDC actively contributes to the UN 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, demonstrating that education is not only a pathway to individual success but also a foundation for collective progress toward a more equitable and sustainable world.

CCDC Strengthens Global and Local Partnerships Toward Sustainable Development

Cordillera Career Development College (CCDC) reaffirms its commitment to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) through its comprehensive Institutional Sustainability Report for Academic Year 2023–2024. Guided by its mission of providing holistic, inclusive, and transformative education, CCDC continues to lead regional efforts in advancing sustainability through education, community engagement, and institutional collaboration.

Advancing the SDGs through Education and Action

CCDC’s sustainability framework integrates the 17 United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) into all aspects of institutional operations — from teaching and research to community extension and campus stewardship. For the academic year, a total of 177 sustainability-aligned projects and initiatives were implemented across academic departments, student organizations, and extension units.

These initiatives demonstrated significant progress in key focus areas:

  • SDG 4 (Quality Education): The largest share of projects, representing 21.5% of total initiatives, focused on inclusive and transformative education, literacy programs, and community-based learning.
  • SDG 3 (Good Health and Well-being): Health and wellness programs, blood donation drives, and mental health awareness campaigns benefited students and partner communities.
  • SDG 1 (No Poverty) and SDG 5 (Gender Equality): Financial aid, livelihood training, and women empowerment programs addressed social inequalities.
  • SDG 16 (Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions): CCDC’s Free Legal Aid Clinics, voter education, and student leadership programs promoted civic engagement and ethical governance.

Strengthening Partnerships for Sustainable Impact (SDG 17)

In alignment with SDG 17 – Partnerships for the Goals, CCDC recognizes that achieving sustainable development requires collective action. The institution has forged strong collaborations with local government units (LGUs), national agencies, non-governmental organizations (NGOs), and academic partners. These partnerships amplify CCDC’s impact across multiple SDGs through shared expertise, joint programs, and resource support.

Key partnerships during AY 2023–2024 include:

  • Local Government Units (LGUs): Collaboration in community health missions, disaster preparedness training, and environmental programs.
  • Government Agencies: Partnership with the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) for tree-planting and waste management; Department of Health (DOH) for health outreach; and Department of Education (DepEd) for literacy and Brigada Eskwela programs.
  • Non-Governmental Organizations: Joint projects with the Zuellig Family Foundation (ZFF), Philippine Volunteers for Environmental Protection (PVEP), and Elevate Movement on health education, environmental sustainability, and student leadership development.
  • Academic and Industry Collaborations: Internship programs, joint research endeavors, and sustainability benchmarking with other higher education institutions strengthened the integration of sustainability in teaching and practice.

Through these partnerships, CCDC extended its reach beyond campus, implementing programs that foster social equity, environmental stewardship, and economic empowerment in the Cordillera region and beyond.

Looking Ahead: Sustaining Momentum

The 2023–2024 report identifies opportunities for further growth, particularly in strengthening environmental initiatives related to Climate Action (SDG 13) and Life on Land (SDG 15). Moving forward, CCDC plans to expand renewable energy projects, promote biodiversity conservation, and enhance sustainability research and monitoring.

By aligning its vision with global sustainability targets and leveraging local partnerships, CCDC continues to embody the spirit of SDG 17 – working together for a sustainable future. The institution stands as a model for collaborative impact, where education serves as the foundation for community resilience and global responsibility.

CCDC Strengthens Global and Local Partnerships Toward Sustainable Development

Cordillera Career Development College (CCDC) reaffirms its commitment to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) through its comprehensive Institutional Sustainability Report for Academic Year 2023–2024. Guided by its mission of providing holistic, inclusive, and transformative education, CCDC continues to lead regional efforts in advancing sustainability through education, community engagement, and institutional collaboration.

Advancing the SDGs through Education and Action

CCDC’s sustainability framework integrates the 17 United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) into all aspects of institutional operations — from teaching and research to community extension and campus stewardship. For the academic year, a total of 177 sustainability-aligned projects and initiatives were implemented across academic departments, student organizations, and extension units.

These initiatives demonstrated significant progress in key focus areas:

  • SDG 4 (Quality Education): The largest share of projects, representing 21.5% of total initiatives, focused on inclusive and transformative education, literacy programs, and community-based learning.
  • SDG 3 (Good Health and Well-being): Health and wellness programs, blood donation drives, and mental health awareness campaigns benefited students and partner communities.
  • SDG 1 (No Poverty) and SDG 5 (Gender Equality): Financial aid, livelihood training, and women empowerment programs addressed social inequalities.
  • SDG 16 (Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions): CCDC’s Free Legal Aid Clinics, voter education, and student leadership programs promoted civic engagement and ethical governance.

Strengthening Partnerships for Sustainable Impact (SDG 17)

In alignment with SDG 17 – Partnerships for the Goals, CCDC recognizes that achieving sustainable development requires collective action. The institution has forged strong collaborations with local government units (LGUs), national agencies, non-governmental organizations (NGOs), and academic partners. These partnerships amplify CCDC’s impact across multiple SDGs through shared expertise, joint programs, and resource support.

Key partnerships during AY 2023–2024 include:

  • Local Government Units (LGUs): Collaboration in community health missions, disaster preparedness training, and environmental programs.
  • Government Agencies: Partnership with the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) for tree-planting and waste management; Department of Health (DOH) for health outreach; and Department of Education (DepEd) for literacy and Brigada Eskwela programs.
  • Non-Governmental Organizations: Joint projects with the Zuellig Family Foundation (ZFF), Philippine Volunteers for Environmental Protection (PVEP), and Elevate Movement on health education, environmental sustainability, and student leadership development.
  • Academic and Industry Collaborations: Internship programs, joint research endeavors, and sustainability benchmarking with other higher education institutions strengthened the integration of sustainability in teaching and practice.

Through these partnerships, CCDC extended its reach beyond campus, implementing programs that foster social equity, environmental stewardship, and economic empowerment in the Cordillera region and beyond.

Looking Ahead: Sustaining Momentum

The 2023–2024 report identifies opportunities for further growth, particularly in strengthening environmental initiatives related to Climate Action (SDG 13) and Life on Land (SDG 15). Moving forward, CCDC plans to expand renewable energy projects, promote biodiversity conservation, and enhance sustainability research and monitoring.

By aligning its vision with global sustainability targets and leveraging local partnerships, CCDC continues to embody the spirit of SDG 17 – working together for a sustainable future. The institution stands as a model for collaborative impact, where education serves as the foundation for community resilience and global responsibility.

CCDC Champions Media and Information Literacy in the Age of AI Aligning with the 2025 Global Theme: “Minds Over AI — MIL in Digital Spaces”

In observance of Global Media and Information Literacy (MIL) Week (October 24–31), the Cordillera Career Development College (CCDC), through the College of Teacher Education(CTE), proudly launched a week-long celebration anchored on UNESCO’s 2025 global theme, “Minds Over AI — MIL in Digital Spaces.” The initiative invited students, educators, and the wider academic community to strengthen their media and information literacy, sharpen critical thinking, and embrace ethical digital practices.

The celebration opened on October 24 with a cascade session titled “Mastering Literacy, AI, and Critical Thought,” facilitated by Ms. Dina Amdos, CTE Faculty and U.S. Embassy Regional English Language Office (RELO) Grantee. Ms. Amdos shared insights on the effective use of AI tools for evidence-based teaching strategies, lesson design, administrative efficiency, digital citizenship, and online safety. Her session deepened participants’ understanding of both the opportunities and challenges posed by artificial intelligence in education, media, and daily communication.

Throughout the week, various departments—from basic education to college—engaged in diverse and interactive activities. Highlights included:

  • Media Sense Central, a booth featuring interactive games and digital literacy challenges such as identifying media types, spotting fake news, and addressing online ethics scenarios.
  • A Fact-Check Campaign on health and climate misinformation, empowering students to detect misleading claims and document their verification process.
  • An Infographic Contest, encouraging students to produce advocacy pieces and reflective reports promoting digital responsibility.
  • A Dynamic Quiz Bee, testing knowledge on AI-generated content, digital ethics, and misinformation detection.
  • An AI Debate Challenge, providing a platform for persuasive discourse on the role of human judgment in an AI-driven world.

These activities were designed to strengthen practical competencies—verifying sources, identifying AI-generated content, and reflecting on digital ethics—anchored on the MIL framework of Access, Evaluation, Creation, and Action. The events were facilitated by the CTE students, the Mentor’s Society, and the CTE faculty members headed by Dr. Juvy Baso, CTE Dean.

Reinforcing CCDC’s dedication to holistic and values-based education, the initiative aligns with several Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs):

  • SDG 4 – Quality Education: Promoting inclusive and lifelong learning opportunities.
  • SDG 9 – Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure: Encouraging responsible innovation and digital literacy.
  • SDG 16 – Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions: Fostering transparency and ethical digital engagement.
  • SDG 17 – Partnerships for the Goals: Strengthening collaboration among educators, students, and global networks.

The celebration concluded with a Recognition Ceremony and a Pledge to Responsible Digital Citizenship, reaffirming CCDC’s vision of nurturing empowered learners who navigate digital spaces with awareness, creativity, and integrity. Through this meaningful observance, CCDC continues to champion media and information literacy as a cornerstone of quality education, preparing students not only for academic success but for thoughtful, ethical participation in a rapidly evolving digital world.

Building Human Rights Advocates: CCDC Participates in Barangay Human Rights Orientation

The Cordillera Career Development College (CCDC) continues to uphold its commitment to community service and human rights education as it participated in the Orientation of Barangay Human Rights Action Team (BHRAcT) held on October 22 – 24, 2025 at Strawberry Valley Hotel and Restaurant, Swamp, Betag, La Trinidad, Benguet.

Rosaria M. Pes-oyen, Principal of CCDC’s Basic Education Department, served as on of the resource speakers during the three-day orientation. She delivered a presentation on the “Roles and Responsibilities of the Barangay Human Rights Action Team,” emphasizing the crucial function of BHRAcT members as frontline defenders of human rights in their respective communities.

Mrs. Pes-oyen highlighted that BHRAcT members play a key role in receiving and referring complaints of human rights violations, assisting victims in accessing justice, and promoting awareness and education on human rights issues. She also encouraged stronger collaboration among local units, schools, and civic organizations to build communities grounded in respect, equality, and justice.

The orientation aimed to enhance the participants’ capacity to address human rights concerns at the grassroots level and to empower barangay leaders to serves as advocates for equality, justice, and peace. The event also provided a platform for shared learning partnership between the public and private sectors in advancing community-based human rights initiatives.

CCDC’s involvement in the activity reflects its enduring commitment to community development, social responsibility, and the promotion of human rights education. This advocacy supports several United Nation Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly:

  1. SDG 4 – Quality Education, by promoting learning that fosters for human rights and active citizenship;
  2. SDG 16 – Peace, Jusitce, and Strong Institutions, by strengthening local mechanisms for justice and human rights protection; and
  3. SDG 17 – Partnership for the Goals, by building collaborative networks between educational institutions and community stakeholders.

Through these initiatives, CCDC continues to uphold its mission of education with a purpose – empowering individuals and communities to create a society grounded in dignity, equality, and respect for all.