SDG4 – Cordillera Career Development College

Fostering Inquiry, Innovation & Impact: CCDC Reinforces Its Mission with 2nd Research Colloquium

In pursuit of its mission to cultivate socially responsive, research-oriented graduates committed to both local and global transformation, Cordillera Career Development College held its 2nd Research Colloquium on October 10, 2025, at Iyaman Hall. Anchored on the theme “Grassroots to Global: Excellence Across Disciplines,” the event powerfully expressed the institution’s dedication to fostering authentic inquiry, innovation, and community-rooted researches.

The colloquium offered a vibrant platform for students to actualize the mission’s call: to integrate critical scholarship with social relevance. Across three presentation sessions, twelve student groups presented their completed research studies, followed by engaging question-and-answer exchanges that invited deeper reflection, constructive challenge, and intellectual growth.

Their research topics spanned numerous domains—mental health support, pedagogical strategies, food science, social work pathways, caregiving experiences, substance use, residential safety, and corporate-community relations. The full list of papers included:

A Descriptive Analysis of the Utilization of Psychosocial Support and Its Perceived Effectiveness on the Mental Health of 4th-Year College Students of CCDC
Coping Mechanism of Nursing Students in Their Graveyard Shift in Related Learning Experience (RLE)
Level of Impact of Different Factors on the Academic Performance of Nursing Students
Effectiveness of Digital Gamification Strategy in Teaching Mathematics
Acceptability and Physico-Chemical Properties of Watercress-Flavored Puto
Exploring the Role of Quipper in Facilitating Blended Learning
Exploring the Lived Experience of Single Fathers in Raising their Children
Journey Towards Registered Social Worker: Understanding Challenges by Social Work Practitioners
Lived Experience of Informal Caregivers of Patients with Chronic Kidney Disease
Exploring Alcohol Consumption Among Third Year CCDC Criminology Students: Patterns, Motives, and Its Negative Impacts
Assessing Safety and Security Measures in Apartments and Boarding Houses of CCDC
Grievances Management of Mining Corporation in Barangay Itogon, Benguet

The evaluative panel guiding the event comprised distinguished external scholars: Michael Sebullen, CRS, PhD (Research Director, Baguio Central University), Jessica Balag-ey, MAEd (Research Development and Extension Director, Easter College), and Judelyn Alones, MA ESL (Instructor, Benguet State University). They offered insightful commentary, evaluating alignment to community needs, methodological rigor, presentation clarity, and potential impact. Certificates of appreciation were presented to the panel by Atty. Annabelle B. Gondales (Vice President for Administration) and Sherry Junette M. Tagle, PhD (President).

In recognition of exemplary inquiry and practice, the paper “Grievances Management of Mining Corporation in Barangay Itogon, Benguet” from the College of Criminal Justice Education was awarded Best Paper, and its presenters received the distinction of Best Presenter—honoring the study’s clarity, relevance, and methodological depth. All presenting students were likewise recognized and certificates were conferred.

By weaving mission-driven research, external partnerships, and student development into this single event, CCDC reaffirmed its vision: turning inquiry into action, elevating community voices, and cultivating graduates who make meaningful social contributions. Aligned with SDG 4 (Quality Education), SDG 9 (Innovation & Infrastructure), and SDG 17 (Partnerships for the Goals), the colloquium embodied the institution’s intent to anchor student scholarship in both local insight and global relevance.

Looking forward, CCDC plans to extend the reach of future colloquia, deepen partnerships with other institutions, widen the diversity of research foci, and more fully integrate mission, scholarship, and community engagement in every student’s experience.

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MIND MATTERS: NAVIGATING MENTAL HEALTH IN CCDC COMMUNITY: November 14-15, 2024

Day 1, the “Mind Matters” seminar at Iyaman Hall had 451 students from various departments. Ma’am Irene T. Alcantara, the resource speaker, discussed the challenges youth face today, highlighting common pressures and struggles. She also talked about the traits of a mentally healthy individual, providing valuable advice on achieving balance and resilience. Additionally, she introduced the PERMA MODEL—a framework for well-being that students can use in their daily lives to enhance personal growth and happiness.

Day 2, featured booth visitations, where different departments set up booths to welcome and assist students. Booth 1, “Pop Your Stress,” was facilitated by Criminology interns. Booth 2, “Kumustahan Booth,” was managed by Social Work students. Booth 3, “Elevate Booth,” was facilitated by Mr. and Mrs. Ballesteros. Booth 4, “Post-It,” was hosted by students from the College of Business Administration and College of Accountancy. Booth 5, “Life is Colorful,” was run by College of Teacher Education students. Booth 6, “Paint Your Story,” was facilitated by College of Nursing students. Booth 7, “Mindfulness Card,” was managed by Midwifery students, and Booth 8, “Price and Reflection,” was facilitated by Criminology interns. This milestone event significantly raised mental health awareness within the Cordillera Career Development College community, fostering resilience and understanding for a more supportive future.

CHANGING THE NARRATIVE ON SUICIDE: START THE CONVERSATION: September 28 and October 2, 2024

The activity brought together various college departments and was facilitated by Mr. and Mrs. Ballesteros from Elevate, with valuable support from the Admirals Peer Facilitators.

The triennial theme for World Suicide Prevention Day (2024–2026), “Changing the Narrative on Suicide,” is paired with the call to action “Start the Conversation.” This theme highlights the importance of breaking the stigma surrounding suicide by encouraging open dialogue and raising awareness. It advocates for a transformative shift from a culture of silence and judgment to one of understanding, compassion, and active support.

CULTIVATING LEADERSHIP: TRAINING FOR FUTURE SCHOOL COMMUNITY CHAMPIONS: September 9, 2024

Ma’am Kaiza Caballero facilitated an engaging session for the elementary officers, focusing on the topic “The Leader in Me.” The activity provided the young students with valuable knowledge about leadership and its importance. She emphasized that recognizing their leadership potential at an early age helps build confidence, self-esteem, and courage as they grow.

Meanwhile, Ma’am Shellamae Ruben led a workshop for the Parent-Teachers Association (PTA) officers centered on “Understanding Leadership and Its Core Principles.” This insightful discussion enabled the PTA officers to draft a comprehensive general plan for the upcoming semester, prioritizing the welfare of the students. Both sessions proved to be impactful, with participants gaining meaningful insights and enjoying the learning experience. Leadership training like this plays a vital role in shaping the leaders of today and tomorrow.

Parents Orientation cum Seminar: Focusing the next generation: Effective Parenting Style for Today’s World: August 9, 2024

In today’s fast-paced world of technological advancements and societal changes, traditional parenting methods often fail to address modern challenges. To address this, a seminar was held during the Parents’ Orientation at the Tupa-ya Sports Complex, offering psychological-based strategies and practical tools for contemporary parenting.

The seminar was led by Ma’am Ylona Veronica A. Bayod, a registered psychologist, psychometrician, and licensed professional teacher. She is also a co-owner and clinical psychologist at the Baguio-Benguet Psychological Services and Consultation Center, where she provides vital mental health services and consultancy. Her talk, titled “The Role of Parenting on the Mental Health of the Child,” offered profound insights into the impact of parenting on a child’s well-being.

Ma’am Bayod emphasized key points, including:

“What home do you provide for your children? Do they feel excited to go back home after school?”
“Be the kind of love that you did not receive.”
“The psychological father is far more important than the biological father” (for single mothers raising children).
“Nobody is guaranteed a senior citizen life. Give the love they deserve so that when you’re gone, there will be no regrets.”
“You cannot change negative behavior through anger. Only love can.”

The session empowered parents with valuable insights and encouraged them to foster a nurturing environment that promotes their children’s mental and emotional health.

PSYCHOLOGICAL FIRST AID: July 30, 2024

Psychological First Aid (PFA) is a method of providing emotional support and assistance to individuals of any age or background immediately after a disaster. While students have unique characteristics and needs, PFA offers a flexible approach to addressing their basic needs during stressful situations. It equips educators with strategies to help students cope with pressing concerns in the days and weeks following a crisis.

This activity, facilitated by the Student Development Officer, was attended by elementary teachers and featured Ma’am Irene T. Alcantara as the keynote speaker. She emphasized the importance of Psychological First Aid in the workplace. The session aimed to train faculty members with the skills and knowledge to deliver immediate emotional and practical support to students affected by crises or traumatic events.

AYOWAN: TEAMWORK QUEST: June 25-27, 2024

The two-day activity, held at Admirals Farm Park in Pinalyok, Lamtang Puguis, La Trinidad, Benguet, brought together 10 Benguet Volleyball Team athletes, 10 Social Work students/Peer Facilitators, 2 Nursing students, and 2 facilitators from the Student Development Office. Participants engaged in psychosocial processing, team-building exercises, physical activities, and sessions on proper hygiene for health and wellness. The program emphasized the importance of table etiquette and fostering respectful relationships with teammates, coaches, elders, and the community.

The event strengthened bonds among players through open sharing of thoughts and ideas, while facilitators developed valuable life skills, including attending and educational techniques, which can be applied to future endeavors.

GROUND EXIT: BREAKING NEW GROUNDS IN FIRM FOUNDATIONS: May 17, 2024

The event, held at the Tupa-ya Gym, was attended by 720 graduation candidates. Representatives from the SSS and BIR provided guidance on document application processes, their purposes, and their importance. Key speakers included Atty. Shontogan, PLTCOL Richard Albon (Chief of the Regional Recruitment and Selection Unit-Cordillera), PLT Normin Luis, and alumni Kelly Denn Tomas, who shared valuable insights to prepare students for their post-graduation endeavors.