SDG4 – Page 2 – Cordillera Career Development College

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.

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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.

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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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CTE makes reading fun for kids via Project Alisto

With the aim of extending learning beyond the classroom through meaningful community engagement, the College of Teacher Education (CTE) conducts another round of Project ALISTO (Accelerating Learners’ Interest in Reading by Strengthening Techniques to Achieve Desired Outcomes) by conducting reading tutorials to pupils of Puguis Elementary School in La Trinidad,Benguet.

Now in its third year, the Project Alisto (alert in Filipino) brought the 45 pre-service teachers from the college to take part in the reading tutorial.

“Through Project ALISTO, education students of Cordillera Career Development College transformed from learners into educators, bridging literacy gaps among elementary pupils while embodying compassion, adaptability, and social commitment,” Bliss Bacacao, CTE Focal Person for Extension Programs said.

The program was launched in April 2023 where pre-service teachers conduct a two-hour session on reading literacy to elementary pupils ages 6 to 8 years old.

Bacacao said the tutors demonstrated creativity and flexibility in addressing diverse learning needs. They modified their strategies to sustain engagement, shifting from traditional reading tasks to game-based learning when necessary.

Recognizing the persistent reading difficulties revealed in the Functional Literacy Assessment Tool (FLAT) results of Puguis Elementary School, a nearby school within the vicinity of CCDC, the Department of Education appealed for assistance to address this concern.

This led to the conceptualization of Project ALISTO —an innovative reading initiative jointly strengthened by Puguis Elementary School and the CTE to cultivate literacy and enjoyment among struggling readers.

For three years, Project ALISTO has implemented Game-Based Reading Sessions designed by the CTE to make reading more engaging and less academic in style. These sessions transform learning into play through fifteen interactive reading stations, each featuring unique games and leveled materials suited to learners’ abilities.

Over the years, a significant impact has been observed as learners have shown improved comprehension, fluency, and motivation to read. The program underscores the importance of early literacy development and proves that when reading becomes enjoyable, it lays the foundation for lifelong learning and discovery.

“Reading should never be seen merely as a school requirement but as an invitation to explore, imagine, and enjoy. True literacy begins in the early years of a child’s life, when learners find joy in reading and every page turned becomes a discovery rather than an academic task,” Bacacao said.

The Project ALISTO program is in line with the Sustainable Development Goals number four which is Quality Education, ensuring inclusive and equitable quality education and promoting lifelong learning opportunities for all.

Through the project, CCDC aims to be part in accomplishing target 4.6 which is the universal literacy and numeracy, that by 2030, it ensures that all youth and a substantial proportion of adults, both men and women, achieve literacy and numeracy.

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CCDC Representatives Empower Young Journalists at Daklan National High School

Two representatives from theCordillera Career Development College (CCDC), Ms. Adriane Love M. IgnasandMr. Jumuel D. Lictao, served asinvited speakersat theJournalism Workshopheld onNovember 4, 2025, atDaklan National High SchoolinDaklan, Bokod, Benguet.

The workshop gathered aspiring campus journalists and student artists for a day of learning, creativity, and collaboration. It aimed to strengthen their journalistic skills while nurturing artistic expression and media literacy — important elements in achieving the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 4: Quality Education and SDG 16: Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions.

Ms. Ignas shared her expertise on feature writing, editorial writing, and news writing. She also emphasized on ethical journalism, truth-telling, and the importance of accurate and balanced reporting. She underscored that the goal of campus journalism is not just for competitions but instill social awareness, civic consciousness and responsible use of freedom speech.

Meanwhile, Mr. Lictao focused on the artistic side of journalism, particularly editorial cartooning, illustration, and layout design. His session highlighted how visual elements can effectively convey messages and complement written stories. Through hands-on drawing activities, he encouraged participants to express ideas creatively and to use art as a powerful medium for truth and advocacy. He shared that “A single drawing can tell a story, challenge ideas, and move people to act — that is the power of visual journalism”.

The Daklan National High School community expressed deep appreciation to CCDC and the guest speakers for their time, talent, and dedication to nurturing young communicators and artists. The event not only enhanced students’ journalistic and creative abilities but also strengthened their sense of civic responsibility and critical thinking. By engaging in outreach programs such as this, CCDC continues to champion transformative education and community involvement, actively supporting SDG 4 (Quality Education) by promoting learning beyond classrooms, and SDG 16 (Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions) by empowering students to use both words and art to advocate for truth, peace, and social awareness.

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CCDC Library Expands Access with Curated Free Electronic Resources

In today’s digital age, access to information extends far beyond the traditional library shelves. To enhance learning and research, the Cordillera College Library has expanded its services by subscribing to electronic databases and offering a curated collection of free electronic resources beginning in 2023.

This initiative includes carefully selected journals, magazines, and databases tailored to support the various degree programs offered by the institution. All these resources are accessible through the college’s official website, allowing students, faculty, and researchers to explore credible information anytime and anywhere.

With the abundance of online content available today, students often struggle to identify reliable sources. Through this curated collection, the library helps ensure that users have quick access to credible, high-quality information, fostering more efficient and effective research practices.

This program also aligns with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)—specifically SDG 4, which promotes inclusive and equitable quality education and lifelong learning opportunities for all, and SDG 10, which advocates for reducing inequalities by providing equal access to information regardless of background. By embracing digital innovation, the CCDC Library continues to uphold its commitment to supporting academic excellence and empowering its learning community through accessible and reliable information resources.

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CCDC Champions Media and Information Literacy in the Age of AI Aligning with the 2025 Global Theme: “Minds Over AI — MIL in Digital Spaces”

In observance of Global Media and Information Literacy (MIL) Week (October 24–31), the Cordillera Career Development College (CCDC), through the College of Teacher Education(CTE), proudly launched a week-long celebration anchored on UNESCO’s 2025 global theme, “Minds Over AI — MIL in Digital Spaces.” The initiative invited students, educators, and the wider academic community to strengthen their media and information literacy, sharpen critical thinking, and embrace ethical digital practices.

The celebration opened on October 24 with a cascade session titled “Mastering Literacy, AI, and Critical Thought,” facilitated by Ms. Dina Amdos, CTE Faculty and U.S. Embassy Regional English Language Office (RELO) Grantee. Ms. Amdos shared insights on the effective use of AI tools for evidence-based teaching strategies, lesson design, administrative efficiency, digital citizenship, and online safety. Her session deepened participants’ understanding of both the opportunities and challenges posed by artificial intelligence in education, media, and daily communication.

Throughout the week, various departments—from basic education to college—engaged in diverse and interactive activities. Highlights included:

Media Sense Central, a booth featuring interactive games and digital literacy challenges such as identifying media types, spotting fake news, and addressing online ethics scenarios.
A Fact-Check Campaign on health and climate misinformation, empowering students to detect misleading claims and document their verification process.
An Infographic Contest, encouraging students to produce advocacy pieces and reflective reports promoting digital responsibility.
A Dynamic Quiz Bee, testing knowledge on AI-generated content, digital ethics, and misinformation detection.
An AI Debate Challenge, providing a platform for persuasive discourse on the role of human judgment in an AI-driven world.

These activities were designed to strengthen practical competencies—verifying sources, identifying AI-generated content, and reflecting on digital ethics—anchored on the MIL framework of Access, Evaluation, Creation, and Action. The events were facilitated by the CTE students, the Mentor’s Society, and the CTE faculty members headed by Dr. Juvy Baso, CTE Dean.

Reinforcing CCDC’s dedication to holistic and values-based education, the initiative aligns with several Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs):

SDG 4 – Quality Education: Promoting inclusive and lifelong learning opportunities.
SDG 9 – Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure: Encouraging responsible innovation and digital literacy.
SDG 16 – Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions: Fostering transparency and ethical digital engagement.
SDG 17 – Partnerships for the Goals: Strengthening collaboration among educators, students, and global networks.

The celebration concluded with a Recognition Ceremony and a Pledge to Responsible Digital Citizenship, reaffirming CCDC’s vision of nurturing empowered learners who navigate digital spaces with awareness, creativity, and integrity. Through this meaningful observance, CCDC continues to champion media and information literacy as a cornerstone of quality education, preparing students not only for academic success but for thoughtful, ethical participation in a rapidly evolving digital world.

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Building Human Rights Advocates: CCDC Participates in Barangay Human Rights Orientation

The Cordillera Career Development College (CCDC) continues to uphold its commitment to community service and human rights education as it participated in the Orientation of Barangay Human Rights Action Team (BHRAcT) held on October 22 – 24, 2025 at Strawberry Valley Hotel and Restaurant, Swamp, Betag, La Trinidad, Benguet.

Rosaria M. Pes-oyen, Principal of CCDC’s Basic Education Department, served as on of the resource speakers during the three-day orientation. She delivered a presentation on the “Roles and Responsibilities of the Barangay Human Rights Action Team,” emphasizing the crucial function of BHRAcT members as frontline defenders of human rights in their respective communities.

Mrs. Pes-oyen highlighted that BHRAcT members play a key role in receiving and referring complaints of human rights violations, assisting victims in accessing justice, and promoting awareness and education on human rights issues. She also encouraged stronger collaboration among local units, schools, and civic organizations to build communities grounded in respect, equality, and justice.

The orientation aimed to enhance the participants’ capacity to address human rights concerns at the grassroots level and to empower barangay leaders to serves as advocates for equality, justice, and peace. The event also provided a platform for shared learning partnership between the public and private sectors in advancing community-based human rights initiatives.

CCDC’s involvement in the activity reflects its enduring commitment to community development, social responsibility, and the promotion of human rights education. This advocacy supports several United Nation Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly:

SDG 4 – Quality Education, by promoting learning that fosters for human rights and active citizenship;
SDG 16 – Peace, Jusitce, and Strong Institutions, by strengthening local mechanisms for justice and human rights protection; and
SDG 17 – Partnership for the Goals, by building collaborative networks between educational institutions and community stakeholders.

Through these initiatives, CCDC continues to uphold its mission of education with a purpose – empowering individuals and communities to create a society grounded in dignity, equality, and respect for all.

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