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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CCDC and NACC-RACCO Hold Forum to Advance Adoption and Alternative Child Care

25 April 2024 | The Cordillera Career Development College (CCDC) , in partnership with the National Authority for Child Care – Regional Alternative Child Care Office (NACC-RACCO) Cordillera, hosted the “Forum on Adoption and Alternative Child Care” on April 25, 2024 at the Tupay-ya Gymnasium, Buyagan, Poblacion, La Trinidad, Benguet.

A total of 274 participants—including students from Social Work, Health Education, and Criminal Justice Education, along with representatives from the 16 barangays of La Trinidad—attended and participated in the event, a testament to the community’s enduring commitment to childhood welfare.

The morning program commenced with the preliminaries then was followed by Ms. Felisa A. Singlan, Social Welfare Officer- V, introduced the National Authority for Child Care (NACC), framing the day’s discussions within the context of national priorities on child protection and care.

The main segments of the forum presented relevant laws and programs:

Ms. Eartha Rache B. Amboni, SWO III, discussed Domestic Administrative Adoption under Republic Act No. 11642, highlighting the simplified processes for families to create safe, permanent homes for children.

Ms. Jane B. Quizzagan, SWO III, provided an orientation on alternative child care and the Philippine Foster Care Program, emphasizing the importance of nurturing environments for children in need.

Ms. Ruby Lynn P. Huag, SWO III, addressed the Simulated Birth Rectification Act (RA 11222), clarifying how families can legally correct simulated birth records for the full benefit and protection of children.

Following the presentations, a lively open forum allowed participants to seek clarifications and discuss local child welfare concerns, fostering active dialogue and shared learning between agency officials, students, and barangay leaders. In recognition of participants’ enthusiasm and involvement, organizers also gave away prizes, contributing to an atmosphere of encouragement and celebration throughout the event.The event closed with the distribution of tokens and certificates and final acknowledgments from the organizing committee.

By bringing together multiple sectors in one forum, CCDC and NACC-RACCO provided a comprehensive, accessible avenue for legal literacy on child welfare issues and fostered a culture of both professional advocacy and community involvement in support of every child’s right to family and protection.

Consistent with its mission as a center of quality 21st-century education for culturally diverse and global learners, CCDC continues to champion programs that bridge knowledge, ethics, and active civic participation. Through such forums, the institution affirms its lasting commitment to lifelong learning, fostering future-ready social workers and allied professionals for the benefit of society and the nation.

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CCDC Opens Campus to the Public for Education, Sports, and Culture in 2024

Throughout 2024, Cordillera Career Development College (CCDC) welcomed the public to a series of educational seminars, professional training sessions, athletic meets, and cultural showcases on its campus. This open-door initiative underscored CCDC’s mission of public service, leadership development, cultural heritage promotion, and community wellness.

 In the realm of education and training, a major event was the Tertiary Education Subsidy (TES) Congress hosted at CCDC with CHED-CAR on December 6, 2024, drawing about 250 student-grantees and representatives from regional colleges. The college also held a 13-hour public seminar on professional audio systems for theater and live events in October 2024. Additionally, CCDC provided its facilities free of charge for a five-day Philippine Service Aptitude Test (AFPSAT), enabling 100 aspiring army officers to take their qualifying exams on campus in partnership with the Philippine Army Recruitment Office.

CCDC’s venues likewise became gathering places for sports and cultural events open to all. From February 7 to March 2, 2024, the college hosted the Benguet Provincial Athletic Meet, using its halls and gymnasium for basketball, volleyball, and combative sports competitions that drew student-athletes from across the province. On September 28, 2024, CCDC’s main gymnasium was the stage for the Mister Grand Philippines – Cordillera 2024 coronation night, a regional pageant celebrating Cordilleran heritage and tourism. By welcoming these events at no cost, CCDC highlighted its support for local culture, youth wellness, and the broader community’s development.

Read More: 

https://ccdc.edu.ph/latest-news/ccdcs-open-doors-a-community-hub-for-sports-culture-and-public-service/ 

https://ccdc.edu.ph/ccdc-and-nacc-racco-hold-forum-to-advance-adoption-and-alternative-child-care/

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Lifelong Learning at CCDC: Empowering Learners for Life

At Cordillera Career Development College (CCDC), learning doesn’t end with a diploma—it continues throughout life. Guided by our new Lifelong Learning Policy, we are reinforcing our commitment to inclusive and quality education by expanding learning opportunities for students, faculty, staff, alumni, and the wider community. This initiative aligns with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 4: to ensure inclusive and equitable quality education and promote lifelong learning opportunities for all.

CCDC’s policy fosters a culture where continuous growth is not only encouraged but expected. We believe that in today’s rapidly changing world, everyone—regardless of age, background, or role—deserves access to relevant, meaningful learning opportunities. Through flexible programs and an inclusive approach, we aim to create pathways that help individuals grow professionally, academically, and personally.

For students, CCDC offers a wide range of options that go beyond traditional classroom learning. From elective courses and micro-credentials to interdisciplinary research and project-based learning, we are nurturing curiosity, self-direction, and practical skills that extend beyond graduation. Our goal is to equip graduates with the mindset and ability to learn independently throughout their careers.

Faculty and staff are supported through a robust professional development framework that includes training workshops, digital literacy programs, seminars on innovative pedagogy, and interdepartmental mentoring initiatives. By continuously investing in our educators and personnel, we ensure a thriving academic environment built on excellence, adaptability, and collaboration.

Lifelong learning also extends to our alumni. Graduates of CCDC can return to pursue new skills or knowledge through continuing education programs, online certificate courses, or mentorship opportunities. Alumni are also invited to contribute as mentors, guest speakers, or facilitators, fostering a strong, intergenerational community of learners.

CCDC’s commitment to lifelong learning reaches well beyond campus borders. In partnership with local government units, community organizations, and industry leaders, we offer outreach programs that deliver practical knowledge and skills where they are needed most. These include adult literacy campaigns in rural communities, small business development seminars, environmental and health education workshops, and agricultural training for indigenous and farming populations. These community-based initiatives exemplify our mission to make education accessible, locally relevant, and transformative.

To make lifelong learning more accessible and flexible, we are enhancing our digital learning infrastructure. Through our Learning Management System and Lifelong Learning Portal, learners can access online modules, free webinars, and virtual mentoring sessions. Evening classes and mobile-ready resources make it easier for working learners and underserved groups to participate, no matter their schedule or location.

Empowering educators is essential to the success of any lifelong learning system. That’s why CCDC integrates lifelong learning into staff development and faculty advancement. Employees can take advantage of tuition support, flexible work arrangements, and a recognition system that rewards academic innovation and leadership. By supporting our people, we sustain a learning culture from within.

To ensure effectiveness and accountability, CCDC has established a Lifelong Learning Committee responsible for overseeing program implementation, gathering feedback, and conducting annual reviews. Participation is tracked, learning outcomes are assessed, and results are used to continuously refine offerings. This ensures our policy remains responsive to evolving educational needs and community priorities.

At CCDC, lifelong learning is not just a policy—it is a core value that defines how we serve our learners, our community  and our region. By embedding lifelong learning into every aspect of our institutional mission, we are preparing individuals not only to thrive in today’s challenges but to lead lives of growth, purpose, and contribution. Our commitment stands as a model of what a truly inclusive, future-ready higher education institution can be.

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Making a Difference Together!

Our CCDC-ELS Outreach Program held at Mauro P. Elementary School, Banayakeo, Atok, Benguet, was a heartwarming success! On February 16, 2024, the CCDC Extension and Literacy Services (ELS), together with the Supreme Pupil Government (SPG) officers, faculty members, and supportive parents, came together to spread joy, learning, and love among the children of the community.

This year, the CCDC-ELS team went above and beyond by preparing a variety of engaging activities designed to foster both fun and learning. The team distributed school supplies to help support the pupils’ educational journey and conducted interactive literacy sessions to encourage a love for reading among young learners.

The day’s program, led by the Supreme Pupil Government, was filled with laughter, creativity, and enthusiasm. Pupils showcased their talents through dance performances, participated in question-and-answer activities, and enjoyed a series of exciting games that strengthened teamwork and camaraderie. Prizes and giveaways brought extra joy to the celebration, making it a truly memorable experience for everyone.

Faculty members and parents also played an important role in making the event a success by offering their time, support, and encouragement. Their cooperation exemplified the spirit of bayanihan—working hand in hand to bring hope and happiness to the children.

Through initiatives like this, CCDC continues to uphold its mission of fostering community engagement and holistic development. The outreach program not only touched lives but also reminded everyone that genuine service begins with compassion and a willingness to make a difference, no matter how small.

Indeed, together we can make a positive impact — one smile, one lesson, and one act of kindness at a time.

https://www.facebook.com/share/p/1CVVPWvXg5/

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Bringing Education Closer to the People: CCDC’s 2024 Outreach Initiatives

Cordillera Career Development College (CCDC) actively extended its educational mission beyond campus in 2024 through a variety of outreach programs. These initiatives engaged local communities and students alike, reflecting CCDC’s commitment to holistic, inclusive education and community service. From entrepreneurial expos to grassroots learning sessions, CCDC’s outreach activities aimed to empower beneficiaries with knowledge, skills, and hope. Below we highlight the major educational outreach initiatives of 2024, emphasizing community engagement, enthusiastic student participation, and alignment with CCDC’s mission and values.

2024 Outreach Highlights

• Rural School Outreach in Atok (February 2024, Benguet) – CCDC’s Basic Education department (Elementary level) spearheaded an outreach program at Sitio Banayakeo, Atok – one of the college’s adopted rural communities. Student leaders, faculty, and parents teamed up to deliver school supplies and a day of learning activities, bringing smiles and much-needed support to the children of the remote Mauro P. Laruan Elementary School. This initiative strengthened ties with the community and allowed young CCDC students to practice compassion and service leadership at an early age.
• MSME Business Expo (March 7–23, 2024, La Trinidad) – As part of its 31st anniversary, CCDC hosted a two-week Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprise Business Expo that brought together students, local producers, and small business owners in a vibrant showcase. With the theme “Promoting and Building Partnerships,” the expo featured on-site trainings (e.g. free bookkeeping and legal clinics) to help entrepreneurs improve their financial literacy and regulatory compliance. This collaborative event served as an open platform for micro-entrepreneurs, cooperatives, women’s associations, and even CCDC’s adopted rural communities of Banayakeo and Cayapes – fostering real-world skills, networking, and sustainable community business growth.
• “Bayang Malusog” Municipal Leadership Program (Nov 27, 2024, Baguio City) – In partnership with the Department of Health–Cordillera and the Zuellig Family Foundation, CCDC co-facilitated the Bayang Malusog Municipal Leadership Development Program on Universal Health Care[4]. The year-long course trained 11 Cordillera mayors and their health teams on improving local health systems, culminating in a graduation ceremony on November 27, 2024 in Baguio City. Through workshops, practicum projects, and coaching sessions, local chief executives learned to develop adaptive strategies for implementing Universal Health Care in their towns. This high-level outreach initiative underscores CCDC’s role in community capacity-building – sharing its academic expertise to help public leaders champion better healthcare and governance in their municipalities.
• Operation Kajo Typhoon Relief (2024) – After severe typhoons struck Northern Luzon, CCDC re-launched “Operation Kajo” as an education-focused relief drive. Mobilizing students, staff, alumni, and partners, the college collected and delivered essential school supplies to hard-hit areas in Apayao and Cagayan. One beneficiary was Upper Atok Elementary School in Apayao, where 77 students had their learning materials swept away by storms. By providing notebooks, uniforms, and learning kits, Operation Kajo ensured these young minds could continue their education uninterrupted. This initiative embodies the spirit of compassion at CCDC – uniting the school community to bring hope and help to peers in need, and demonstrating the college’s commitment to making a positive impact beyond its campus.
• “Sumika-sika” Community Education Series (year-round 2024) – CCDC also conducted ongoing non-formal education sessions under its Sumika-sika Series, which brings capacity-building activities directly to communities. These sessions covered practical life skills and knowledge on topics like basic nutrition and food safety, mental health and well-being, positive parenting, and disaster preparedness. In parallel, student volunteers through campus organizations and NSTP–CWTS classes carried out service projects in partner communities – from health and hygiene promotion workshops to the Aqua Care water storage improvement program for local child development centers. These grassroots initiatives empowered families with useful knowledge and improved essential services (clean water, sanitation, health education) at the community level, exemplifying CCDC’s hands-on approach to uplifting community welfare.

A Community-Rooted Mission in Action

Each of these outreach activities highlights CCDC’s deep engagement with the community and dedication to nurturing socially responsible leaders. Students gained experiential learning and a heart for service, while beneficiaries – from entrepreneurs and local officials to schoolchildren and parents – received education and support that address real needs. In doing so, CCDC stays true to its vision of “bringing education closer to the people,” delivering holistic, accessible, and inclusive learning experiences beyond the classroom. Through partnerships and volunteerism, the CCDC family translated its academic values into action, bridging gaps in society and strengthening community resilience. By aligning outreach with its mission and core values, Cordillera Career Development College continues to build empowered communities and enrich the lives of Cordillerans – one educational initiative at a time.

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