11 Cordillera towns graduate from MLDP course 

Eleven towns from the Cordillera graduated from the Municipal Leadership Development Program (MLDP) course on November 27 at Hotel Elizabeth, Baguio City.  

Graduates of the course are the municipalities of Atok, Bokod, Mankayan and Buguias in Benguet; Hingyon, Aguinaldo, and Asipulo in Ifugao; Bontoc and Sagada in Mountain Province; Lagayan, Abra; and Balbalan, Kalinga. 

The Municipal Leadership Development Program (MLDP) for Universal Health Care Acceleration dubbed “Bayang Malusog” is a course offered by the Department of Health-Cordillera in collaboration with the Zuellig Family Foundation (ZFF) and the Cordillera Career Development College (CCDC). 

During the culmination activity, DOH-CAR Director Dr. Ferdinand Benbenen lauded the local chief executives and their municipal health teams for finishing the course. He said the leadership program is a step towards making the Universal Health Care a reality. 

Director for Local Health Systems Portfolio for Zuellig Family Foundation Dr. Catherine Chung urged the local government units to continue monitoring the UHC implementation in their respective areas, as primary healthcare is important in achieving UHC.

“It takes the whole of government approach, the whole of society approach; it requires collective effort to achieve the Universal Health Care. Let us reaffirm our commitment for UHC as a fundamental rights of the Filipinos,” Chung said. 

CCDC President Sherry Junette Tagle said they hope the program can generate adaptive responses in addressing emerging and persistent challenges especially in the implementation of the Universal Health Care. 

Tagle, who was also among the facilitators of the MLDP course, urged the LGUs to work together in the steadfast pursuit of quality care in the community.  

During the colloquia, the various mayors gave their narratives on how they handled, with their health teams, the implementation of the program in their respective towns. 

Municipal mayors present during the event were: Edmarc Crisologo (Lagayan); Franklin Smith (Atok), Thomas Wales (Bokod), and Dario Banario (Mankayan); Gaspar Chilagan Jr. (Aguinaldo), Archie Lee Quindo (Asipulo), and Florencio Nalula (Hingyon);  Almar Malannag (Balbalan); Jerome Tudlong Jr. (Bontoc) and Felecito Dula (Sagada). Buguias Mayor Ruben Tinda-an was represented by his municipal health team during the culminating activity, where the mayors recounted their application of the learnings from the MLDP course in their communities. 

The provincial health officers of the provinces of Abra, Benguet, Kalinga, Ifugao and Mountain Province then gave their responses to the presentations of the LCEs in their area. 

Benguet PHO Dr. Meliarazon Dulay urged the four mayors of Benguet to influence their fellow local chief executives to enroll in the MLDP course, which will give way for an improved healthcare system. This was echoed by the PHOs of Kalinga Dr. Edward Tandingan, Dr. Lilibeth Martin of Abra, Dr. Priscilla Pagada of Ifugao, and Dr. Carolyn Yawan of Mountain Province. 

“We cannot have a vibrant economy without a healthy population,” Tandingan said adding that sustainability is also important in the implementation of the program. 

The MLDP is a leadership course that consists of two modules of face-to-face training, practicum activities, technical sessions and coaching with experts, and colloquium culmination activities stretched over a 12-month period. 

It aims to equip the various local chief executives and its respective health teams composed of the municipal health officers, Sangguniang Bayan member for health, and the municipal accountant or an equivalent local finance committee representative to improve on their health care systems particularly on the implementation of the UHC.  

The Universal Health Care (UHC) Act in the Philippines or the Republic Act No. 11223, enacted in 2019, aims to provide all Filipinos with access to high-quality health services and financial protection. 

More MLDP courses are on the pipeline in the region with CCDC and ZFF as collaborators of DOH-CAR. 

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“ADJAS Series: Take a Pause”

In our fast-paced, juggling work, family, and community obligations can easily lead to stress and burnout, making mental well-being a vital priority. To address this, Cordillera Career Development College (CCDC) launched the ADJAS Series—a thoughtful initiative designed to give employees the opportunity to take a break, recharge, and refocus.

On July 4-5, 2023, CCDC staff gathered at Admirals’ Farm Park for a two-day mental health retreat under the theme “Breaking the Noise of Monotony: PAUSE is not stopping but redeeming the self; gearing towards better services.” This retreat provided employees with a much-needed chance to step away from their usual routines, allowing them to unwind in a peaceful setting. The event centered on mental clarity, stress relief, and personal renewal, with activities that encouraged staff to focus on relaxation and self-care. By emphasizing the importance of taking time to disconnect, CCDC highlighted the role of mental well-being as a cornerstone of overall health and underscored how occasional pauses can enhance both personal resilience and professional productivity.

Continuing this commitment to mental health, CCDC organized a specialized Mental Health Therapy session in October exclusively for Student Development Officers (SDOs). Recognizing the emotionally intensive nature of their roles—providing crucial support to students’ psychological and emotional needs—this session offered these frontline staff a safe space to address their own well-being. Held in Pasig City, the therapy session focused on strengthening personal resilience, providing strategies for managing stress, and helping SDOs process work-related challenges. This support aims to empower them to continue offering effective assistance in demanding cases while maintaining their own mental health.

The ADJAS Series not only highlights CCDC’s commitment to fostering a healthy work environment but also serves as a model for promoting mental well-being across all levels of an organization. By encouraging employees to step back and recharge, CCDC exemplifies how even brief pauses can lead to meaningful improvements in both personal and professional growth.

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CCDC Leads the Way in Promoting Well-being and Empowerment through Community Activities Aligned with SDG 3”

Cordillera Career Development College (CCDC) is championing Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 3: “Good Health and Well-being” by organizing a series of impactful activities in 2023 focused on mental health, self-discovery, and community empowerment. These programs, uniting staff and students, aim to enhance resilience and foster a supportive community.

Silaw: Bringing Light to My Precious Scar – January 12, 2023, JMM Hall
The year began with Silaw, a transformative event for Junior High School students that promoted self-acceptance through reflective activities and goal-setting. Participants explored personal challenges and built resilience, finding hope in each other’s support. By the program’s end, students were inspired to be guiding lights for their peers, cultivating a positive, supportive culture at CCDC.

Pasgedan di Namnama Series 1: Understanding is Healing – April 26, 2023
In April, the Pasgedan di Namnama series emphasized the theme “Understanding is Healing.” This event created a safe, inclusive environment where students could discuss challenges and appreciate cultural diversity. Through meaningful dialogue, participants learned that empathy and understanding are foundational to healing and to building supportive relationships.

Watch video here.

Psychosocial Activity: Self-Discovery – May 25, 2023, Admirals Park
In May, Grade 6 students and their parents took part in a Self-Discovery Psychosocial Activity at Admirals Park. This program encouraged students to recognize their strengths, reflect on their self-concept, and make positive choices. By comparing self-perceptions with others’ encouraging views, students gained confidence and clarity to navigate life’s decisions healthily.

More pictures here.

Seed to Forest: Life Skills Seminar – October 16, 2023, JMM Hall
The Seed to Forest seminar motivated Junior High School faculty to view their personal growth as vital to the school community’s collective strength. Senior High School faculty, meanwhile, attended another part of the Wasdin Sumya series, titled Mental Health is a Universal Human Right: Our Minds, Our Rights. Here, they shared struggles, supported each other, and took pride in their growth, promoting resilience through shared experiences.

Wasdin Sumya: Mental Health is a Universal Human Right – October 23, 2023
In October, CCDC capped off the year’s SDG 3 initiatives with Wasdin Sumya, an event designed to promote mental well-being and reduce stigma for Grades 4-6 students and teachers. Through workshops and discussions, participants learned self-care strategies and how to support one another, fostering a compassionate school environment that values mental health.

Peer Advocacy Training: RACE Against Suicide – October 12-14, 2023, Plaza Garden Hotel and Residences
To further empower its students as advocates, CCDC held a three-day Peer Advocacy Training. This training equipped students with essential skills to support their peers in self-discovery and healing, encouraging them to be active participants in promoting mental wellness within their academic community.

Through these initiatives, CCDC strengthens its commitment to the well-being of its students and community, aligning with SDG 3’s mission to promote health, mental wellness, and unity. Each activity has created a ripple effect, underscoring the importance of healthy minds and connected communities for a thriving future.

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“Winning Pieces of the World AIDS Day Poster-Making Contest at Benguet Provincial Capitol”

In a powerful display of creativity and advocacy, students from Cordillera Career Development College gathered at the Benguet Provincial Capitol on December 7, 2023, to commemorate World AIDS Day through a Poster-Making Contest. This event highlighted the theme of resilience, unity, and awareness, as students used their artistic talents to convey messages of compassion, support, and action in the fight against HIV/AIDS.

Read FPOP Baguio-Benguet post here.

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“Cordillera Career Development College (CCDC) Opens Sports Facilities to Serve the Community”

Cordillera Career Development College (CCDC) continues to strengthen its community bonds by generously opening its sports facilities for various public and community-oriented events. This initiative underscores the institution’s commitment not only to education but also to fostering community engagement and providing accessible venues for significant local activities.

One notable occasion where CCDC’s facilities were shared was the recent hosting of the Elementary La Trinidad Zone 5 Meet, held on February 3, 2023. This event welcomed elementary students from across Zone 5 in La Trinidad, providing a platform for young athletes to showcase their skills, foster sportsmanship, and celebrate healthy competition. By supporting this event, CCDC enabled young athletes to use top-quality facilities, contributing to their growth and confidence in sports.

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The college’s versatile facilities have also been made available for more personal milestones, including wedding ceremonies and receptions. This unique offering allows couples and families in the area to celebrate their special day in a spacious and well-maintained venue, blending the charm of the college’s scenic surroundings with its modern amenities.

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Another valuable community initiative hosted at CCDC is the Blood Letting Activity, a health-centered event aimed at raising awareness about the importance of blood donation. CCDC has served as a convenient location for this essential service, allowing community members to contribute to public health by donating blood in a safe, organized, and accessible setting.

Through these initiatives, CCDC demonstrates its dedication to creating an inclusive environment where both personal and community events can be celebrated, enhancing the lives of those within La Trinidad and beyond. The college continues to uphold its mission to foster a supportive, engaged community, making its facilities a vital part of local development.

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“EmpowerWell:CCDC’s Initiative for Community Health and Wellbeing”

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“PANBADANGAN PROJECT SERIES 2”

Read the article below

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“CCDC Celebrates 30th Anniversary with Free Services for Atok Community”

In celebration of its 30th Foundation Anniversary, the Cordillera Career Development College (CCDC) held a series of free community services for the residents of Atok, its adopted community. This outreach initiative aimed to promote education, health, and legal assistance, directly benefiting local residents and strengthening ties between CCDC and the communities it serves.

On March 10, 2023, CCDC hosted a variety of activities in Poblacion, Atok, starting with a free BPATS Training on Basic Arnis, Security, and Public Order for the barangays of Caliking, Naguey, Poblacion, and Pasdong. The training equipped participants with essential skills to enhance public safety and security in their respective communities. In addition, our faculty from the College of Law and through the Community Legal Aid Center, offered a Free Legal Aid Clinic, where residents accessed legal consultations and assistance on issues such as land registration, women’s and children’s rights, civil registry matters, and more. To further support the well-being of the community, the CCDC Medical and Dental Health Clinic, together with the CCDC Birthing Clinic, provided free basic health and prenatal check-ups.

On the following day, March 11, 2023, the outreach activities continued in Sayangan, Atok, with another BPATS Training for the barangays of Caliking, Abiang, Cattubo, Paoay, and Topdac. This session extended the benefits of community security training to a broader group of residents.

These initiatives were made possible through the collaborative efforts of various CCDC departments, including the Extension Services, College of Criminal Justice Education, College of Health Education, Medical and Dental Health Clinic, Birthing Clinic, Sports Department, College of Law, and the Community Legal Aid Center. As part of its 30th anniversary celebration, CCDC reaffirmed its ongoing commitment to providing accessible, high-quality services that address the educational, health, and legal needs of its partner communities.

See more: https://www.facebook.com/share/p/15cEkuX6nz/

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“Community Health Services and Collaborative Initiatives by Student Nurses in Benguet”

In November 2023, student nurses collaborated with local health organizations to provide essential community health services across the Benguet region. These activities, spanning health outreach, sports support, health education, and community engagement, reflect a commitment to improving health awareness and care access in various communities.

Health Outreach Programs: First Aid and Sports Medicine

From November 17-19, student nurses teamed up with health workers at Shilan Barangay Health Station, where they refreshed their skills in basic first aid. This collaboration enhanced the emergency response capabilities in Shilan, benefiting local residents.

In the spirit of community involvement, the student nurses extended their support to the Tacdian Elementary School’s zone meet. They assisted in warm-up exercises, served as sports medics, and ensured safe medical support during running events. Their presence provided crucial first aid and monitoring, highlighting the importance of medical support in community sporting events.

Health Education and Parental Engagement

On November 18, student nurses attended a Parenting Seminar at Cordillera Career Development College (CCDC). During this event, they conducted a session on proper nutrition for children, emphasizing the role of balanced diets in physical and cognitive development. This health teaching activity empowered parents with practical knowledge to promote their children’s health.

Community Outreach: Home Visits and Employee Health Monitoring

Beyond events, student nurses engaged in home visitations and health assessments. On October 18-20, they conducted vital sign monitoring in Caliking, Atok, and visited Caliking Elementary School to address health concerns with teachers, aiming to support student well-being. Additionally, they volunteered to monitor blood pressure for employees at CENRO-Buguias, underscoring the importance of regular health checks for government employees.

Public Health Events: Blood Pressure, Blood Sugar, and Hygiene Monitoring

In recognition of Indigenous Peoples Education (IPED) Month on October 18, student nurses conducted free blood sugar and blood pressure screenings at Camp 30 National High School. This outreach offered parents vital health data, encouraging awareness and preventive care.

Dental Health for Young Children

On November 23, in coordination with the Municipal Health Office (MHO) of La Trinidad, student nurses supported a fluoridization program for daycare pupils in Balili, La Trinidad. They provided dental health education, including proper tooth-brushing techniques, to instill lifelong dental hygiene habits among young children.

These collaborative efforts showcase the dedication of student nurses to fostering health literacy and preventive care. By extending services through various health stations, schools, and seminars, they played a vital role in strengthening health support systems and fostering a healthier community in Benguet.

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Community Duty 

November 17-19,2023Student Nurses assigned at Shilan Barangay Health Station  Reviewed Basic First aid in collaboration with Shilan  Barangay Health Workers

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Assisted in the warm up exercise for the athlete in Tacdian Elementary School during their zone meet.

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Student Nurses served as Sports Medics during the Zone meet at Tacdian Elementary School 

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Student Nurses assisted as medics in the safe conduct of running event during the Zone meet at Tacdian Elem School

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Student Nurses attended in a Parenting Seminar at CCDC JMM hall on November 18,2023

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Student Nurses did Health Teaching on proper Nutrition for kids to parents in one session during the parental seminar

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Student Nurses conducted Home visitation and vital signs monitoring at Caliking, Atok Benguet last October 18-20

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Student Nurses volunteered to check blood pressure of employees at CENRO-Buguias, a government office in Caliking, Atok

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Student Nurses interviewing the some teachers of Caliking elementary School for their students’ health concerns

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10/18/23 (Hygiene)

Student Nurses volunteered to conduct free blood sugar and Blood pressure monitoring to parents during the IPED month in Camp 30 National High School

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November 23,2023 

Student Nurses assisted  in Flouridization program of the MHO-Latrinidad among Day care pupils in Balili, Latrinidad, Benguet

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Student Nurses Health Teaching on Proper Tooth brushing to Day care pupils in Balili, La Trinidad

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SOUND BODY, SOUND MIND

This even was held in Barangay Beckel on March 5 at 8:30 AM at Bekkel Elementary School Grounds… to the youth in the area, thank you for coming!

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“CCDC and Zuellig Family Foundation Forge Partnership through MOU”

The Cordillera Career Development College (CCDC) has entered into a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the Zuellig Family Foundation (ZFF), marking a significant collaboration to advance education and health outcomes in the Philippines.

CCDC, aiming to be a center of 21st-century education, is committed to providing accessible, holistic, and inclusive learning experiences that cultivate responsible global citizens and leaders. In line with this, the institution plans to conduct lectures, seminars, and other educational programs to promote leadership, social transformation, and capacity building among local government leaders, civil servants, and multi-sectoral organizations.

ZFF, a catalyst for improving health outcomes in the country, envisions contributing to better health conditions through leadership development and governance in partnership with key stakeholders. ZFF, through its Institute (ZFFI), will oversee the development of training and coaching programs focused on the Health Change Model and Bridging Leadership as the framework for creating positive change.

This partnership aims to enhance institutional capacity and foster collaboration in the areas of Bridging Leadership, local governance, health systems development, and youth sexual and reproductive health. By working together, CCDC and ZFF are committed to empowering leaders and improving local communities through integrated education and health initiatives.

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CCDC Adopts a No Smoking Policy

In support of health measure to curb oral health problems and diseases, Cordillera Career Development College has long implemented a No Smoking and No Chewing of Betel Nut inside the campus.

Under Section 1.8 of Article 8 or the Code of Discipline in the Handbook for Students, smoking, vaping, and chewing or spitting of betel nut and tobacco is prohibited at any time inside the school premises.

Such offense is considered under “Type C” or Very Serious Offense, which merits warning for the first offense, suspension for the second offense, and expulsion for the third offense.

The offense has been in the Students’ Handbook since 2018.*

Nursing students undergo mental health debriefing

As part of their subject on Psychiatric Nursing, student nurses underwent a Mental Health activity which focused on self awareness at the Senior High School Hall on May 24, 2022.

Dubbed Psychosocial Activity: Sound Mind and Body, the activity is also a much-needed break from their Psychiatric Ward duties and forms part of their debriefing process.

The activity was conducted and supervised by Ms. Michelle Palongdias and Ms. Annielyn Ofo-ob of the CCDC Guidance Office.

Other photos are posted in the CCDC Social Media Account.

CCDC sets R&R for employees

To ensure balanced mental wellbeing, employees of Cordillera Career Development College (CCDC) are provided “rest and recreation days,” aside from their regular work breaks.

For 2022, employees embarked on wellness breaks on February 21 and June 8 at the ADMIRALS Farms Park which offered relaxation activities such as forest bathing and hiking.

As a deviation, other employees also took on their rest and recreation day at the Reiwa Resort and Camping Grounds, near the seashores of Bauang, La Union on July 29.

The “rest days” provide the employees a sort of destressing to allow a smoother and more efficient working relationship with their colleagues.

The events also included team-building activities meant to foster improved interpersonal relationships and building mutual trust and confidence. Numerous studies have shown that rest and recreation breaks are considered mental wellness activities which prevent overloading of stress leading to burnouts.

The photo-documentation of the activities can be accessed below: