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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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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Hospitality and Tourism Week 2025: “Mabuhay Cordillera — The Admirals’ Fiesta!” Marks a Week of Competitions, Creativity, and Cultural Pride

The Hospitality and Tourism Week 2025: “Mabuhay Cordillera — The Admirals’ Fiesta!” was a vibrant and meaningful celebration that showcased the skills, creativity, and professionalism of BS Hospitality and BS Tourism students of CCDC. The event opened with a lively ceremony featuring the ribbon cutting, launch of the Trade Fair, and the Oath Taking of the newly elected HTM Guild Officers. As one organizer shared, “This celebration reflects our pride and commitment to sustainable tourism.”

Throughout the week, students actively participated in various competitions including Fruit & Vegetable Carving, Chicken Dressing & Cooking, Virtual Tour Guiding, Flight Showmanship, Table Napkin Folding, Baby Cake Decorating, and the Hospitality and Tourism Quiz Bee. These activities brought out the students’ enthusiasm and competitiveness, prompting one participant to remark, “It felt like real industry training—challenging but fulfilling.”

Skill-building sessions further enriched the celebration. The Housekeeping Seminar and Bed-Making Demo provided hands-on practice and professional insights. According to the speaker, “Precision and discipline define true hospitality service.” Likewise, the Public Speaking and Master of Ceremony Seminar strengthened the students’ confidence and communication skills, with the trainer reminding them, “Your voice is your first tool in hospitality.”

The week concluded with the Trashion Show and Closing Program, where students showcased sustainable fashion creations and celebrated the achievements of competition winners and those who represented the school in off-campus events. The closing message captured the spirit of the celebration: “Your hard work made this week truly remarkable.”

Overall, the activity successfully enhanced student confidence, teamwork, industry readiness, and appreciation for Cordilleran culture while promoting sustainability in tourism and hospitality, a very significant learning experience for students beyond classroom lectures.

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EXPLORING HOSPITALITY HORIZONS: BS Hospitality Management Industrial Tour 2025

The 4th year Bachelor of Science in Hospitality Management (BSHM) students of CCDC, under the Industrial Tour course, recently embarked on a two-day immersion tour at Manila and Clark on November 20-21, 2025. This journey was designed to provide firsthand experience to students in the hospitality establishments that offer unique perspectives on service excellence and hotel management. One of the key highlights of the tour was the students’ stay at the 4-star Azumi Boutique Hotel in Alabang, Muntinlupa.

Their overnight experience allowed them to observe and appreciate the hotel’s guest service quality from a guest’s point of view. Alongside, they also toured City Garden Hotel in Manila, where they gained deeper insights on food and beverage operations and the daily workflow of hotel staff.

To further enrich their learning experience, the students attended a series of industry focused seminars and workshops at the Magsaysay Center for Hospitality and Culinary Arts (MIHCA), one of the country’s premier training institutions for aspiring hospitality and culinary professionals.

The sessions were facilitated by seasoned practitioners who shared their extensive experience and in-depth knowledge of the global hospitality landscape. The seminars helped broaden the students’ understanding of the industry and provided a clearer picture of the diverse career paths available to future hospitality professionals. 

Another standout feature of the tour was the hands-on visit to the Godel Chocolate Factory, where the students were introduced to the intricate world of artisanal chocolate making. They observed each stage of production from cacao bean selection and fermentation to grinding, molding and packaging allowing them to appreciate the craftsmanship behind premium chocolates. The highlight of the workshop was an opportunity for the students to create and design their own chocolate bars.

The tour served as a valuable opportunity for students to connect classroom learning with real-world applications, strengthening their understanding of the hospitality industry and inspiring them to pursue excellence in their future careers.

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CCDC College of Criminal Justice Education Shines in the 19th National Forensic Science Specialization Training

The Cordillera Career Development College (CCDC) once again demonstrated its strong commitment to advancing forensic competency and professional development of its faculty members during the 19th National Forensic Science Specialization Training, held from November 23–30, 2025, at Brentwood Apartelle, M. Roxas Street, Baguio City. 

With the theme “Advancing Forensic Expertise for Modern Investigation,” the week-long live-in training brought together forensic practitioners and criminal justice professionals from across the Philippines to strengthen their expertise in specialized investigative disciplines. Participants completed 80 hours of intensive instruction, hands-on simulations, and expert-led workshops across five major fields, namely: Fire Arson Detection and Investigation Course, Forensic Investigation of Violent Crimes, Advanced Forensic Photography Specialization Course, Advanced Forensic Ballistics Specialization Course, and Advanced Forensic Chemistry Specialization Course.

CCDC’s College of Criminal Justice Education fielded five dedicated delegates—Shannia Brineth B. Bandao, Marcial M. Etong, Vergel C. Bayacsan, Justin B. Lingaling, and Charity T. Bayawa—who all represented the institution with professionalism and competence. Among them, Shannia Brineth B. Bandao distinguished herself in the Fire Arson Detection and Investigation Course (FADIC) by ranking first overall, securing first place in the Expert Witness Oral Defense component of the course, and receiving commendation as Class President of FADIC.

In the Advanced Forensic Ballistics Specialization Course, Marcial M. Etong earned second place overall, and in the Expert Witness Oral Defense in the said course. Vergel C. Bayacsan, representing the Advanced Forensic Photography Specialization Course, attained first place in the Expert Witness Oral Defense, while Justin B. Lingaling excelled in the Forensic Investigation of Violent Crimes course by earning second place in the Expert Witness Oral Defense.

The collective participation and achievements of these five delegates underscore CCDC’s dedication to developing competent, culturally grounded, and globally prepared professionals. Their strong performance mirrors the institution’s continuous pursuit of educational excellence, one that emphasizes holistic development, civic responsibility, dignity, and cultural awareness. By engaging in rigorous national forensic training, the delegates embodied the college’s commitment to empowering learners through meaningful, and experience-driven opportunities. Their success affirms CCDC’s vision of shaping responsible leaders who bring honor to their fields and contribute meaningfully to community safety, justice, and nation-building. 

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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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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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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.

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