SDG17 – Page 5 – Cordillera Career Development College

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

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 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.

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 27^th 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.

1st MSME Business Expo: Promoting and Building Partnerships

In celebration of the 31st founding anniversary of the Cordillera Career Development College (CCDC) with the theme “GRASSROOTS TO GLOBAL: Breaking New Grounds on Firm Foundations”, academic departments of CCDC conducted its 1st MSME Business Expo: Promoting and Building Partnerships with a Business Talk and a Bookkeeping Seminar under Sumika-Sika Tako Series. The activities took place at the Students Open Lounge, Tupay-ya Complex entrance, and CCDC Board Room last March 7-23, 2024, from 8:00am to 5:00pm. It involved a collaborative participation between the Community-Based Education School (CES) of the College of Business Education and Administration (CBEA) with the Graduate School’s Capability and Research Engagement (CaRE), College of Law’s Community Legal Aid Center (CLAC) and the College of Accountancy (COA). It was open to the community, especially:

students with small businesses,
employees with home-made businesses,
micro and small business owners,
cooperatives, women’s associations,
the adopted community of Banayakeo and Cayapes, and
other MSMEs.

A business expo for Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) is a strategic platform for growth, innovation, and networking. It brings together MSMEs, entrepreneurs, investors, and industry experts, facilitating knowledge exchange, market access, and partnership opportunities. The expo aimed to address the challenges MSMEs face in accessing markets, technology, and finance. It promotes visibility, brand recognition, and market presence, enabling MSMEs to scale up, innovate, and contribute to socio-economic development.

Key participants in the expo included:

Load Manna Consumer Cooperative (LMCC): A consumer cooperative in Benguet formed by Load Manna E-Loading Dealers and Retailers.
Benguet State University (BSU) BS Entrepreneurship Students: Adding an element of academic innovation, students from the BSU BS Entrepreneurship program showcased their creative outputs, featuring innovative food products, and clothing lines infused with a Cordilleran touch.
CCDC Employees: Employees utilized the platform to exhibit and market their homemade products.
CCDC 4th Year BS Entrepreneurship Students: CBEA students demonstrated their technical knowledge and entrepreneurial spirit by displaying their projects in hydroponic farming, highlighting sustainable and modern agricultural techniques of the Cordillera region.

Business Talks
The CBEA hosted a Business Talk seminar attended by CBEA students and facilitated by experts from DOST and DTI. Dr. Sheila Marie Singa-Clever, Provincial Director of PST under the Department of Science and Technology (DOST), discussed their Small Enterprise Technology Upgrading Program (SETUP). This nationwide program provides technical assistance and funding to MSMEs to adopt technological innovations, improve product quality, and increase productivity and competitiveness. Also, Ms. Shyna Tuazon, a business counselor from the Negosyo Center of the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), discussed crucial aspects of Product Labeling and Packaging. DTI, through its Negosyo Centers, frequently holds sessions on this topic, which is vital for MSMEs to comply with regulatory requirements and enhance their marketability.

Bookkeeping Seminar
A bookkeeping seminar which was handled by the College of Accountancy, through their resource speaker Ms. Jaleh Lomirez, is a valuable educational opportunity for individuals and small business owners to understand basic accounting principles and bookkeeping practices. This knowledge can help entrepreneurs manage their finances, scale operations, attract investors, and seek financing. It equips participants with the skills and resources needed for financial success and stability. The College of Law’s CLAC provided on-site legal assistance to MSMEs on necessary business regulatory requirements and other legal concerns.

The activities conducted underscores CCDC’s dedication to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). It aimed to venture into new partnerships with the local community and provide an avenue for our stakeholders to gain experience and promote their businesses for the community to appreciate (SDG 1, SDG 2). Similarly, students’ participation is widely appreciated for the success of these activities for the reason that they are invited to showcase and market their innovative products (SDG 4, SDG 8).

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