CCDC and Atok LGU Renewed Partnership for Student Community Immersion

The signing of the Contract of Affiliation (COA) between the Cordillera Career Development College (CCDC) and the Municipality of Atok, through the Municipal Health Office, has been successfully concluded following the Municipal Resolution’s approval. Dr. Dominga A. Nazir, Municipal Health Officer of Atok, Benguet, led the signing. The proceedings were conducted in the presence of an official representative of the Municipality, signifying the local government unit’s (LGU) support for the initiative.

Representing the academic partner was the Dean of the College of Health Education, Marivel D. Muñoz, with the participation of the Principal of Midwifery, Marie Fe E. Kidatan, together with the faculty, who humbly witnessed and affirmed the agreement last March 31, 2026, at Municipal Hall of Atok, Benguet.

Through this partnership, both parties formally commit to the mutual sharing of resources, the enhancement of students’ clinical training experiences, and the promotion of a collaborative environment for health-related research and community engagement within the Municipality of Atok, Benguet. This agreement signifies a shared vision of strengthening healthcare delivery while providing meaningful learning opportunities that prepare future nurses and midwives to respond effectively to the needs of the community.

The ratification of this Contract of Affiliation marks a meaningful step in the continuing collaboration. Through this partnership, we hope to further connect academic learning with community-based health practice, allowing our students to grow not only in competence but also in their understanding of the unique needs of the Cordilleran people.

We remain grateful for this opportunity for collaboration and look forward to a sustained and mutually beneficial partnership—one that aspires to uphold quality health education and contribute, in our own small way, to the well-being of the community.

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BSOA Students Participate in PASOA National Convention 2026

The Bachelor of Science in Office Administration (BSOA) students participated in the PASOA National Convention 2026, held on April 10–11, 2026, at the Urdaneta City Cultural Center in Urdaneta City, Pangasinan. This year’s convention, themed “PASOA@19: Fostering Future-Ready Office Leaders—Innovate, Integrate, and Inspire for a Unified and Dynamic Profession,” brought together Office Administration students from various colleges and universities across the country.

The event was organized by the Philippine Association of Students in Office Administration (PASOA), in partnership with the Philippine Association of Administrative Professionals and Educators in Office Administration, Inc. (PAAPEOAI).

The convention featured a series of relevant and timely activities, including expert-led discussions on empowering professionals through collaboration and the use of innovative tools, as well as promoting transparency and sustainability for ethical workplace growth. Participants also engaged in various academic and skills-based competitions, such as the quiz bee and the Search for Mr. and Ms. PASOA 2026.

The institution’s delegation was composed of BSOA students Jeju Israel G. Caga, Trishley Moore D. Mayamay, Clariza M. Bas-ilan, Judith Agbuya, and Marie Sol L. Somaki, accompanied by Ms. Meriam F. Gapad, BSOA faculty member.

This participation underscores the continued commitment of CCDC, the College of Business Education and Administration (CBEA), and the BSOA program to expand student engagement from local to national platforms, with the long-term goal of achieving international involvement.

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BRIDGING HORIZONS: Strengthening Social Work Education through Educational Tour

On February 28, 2026, the College of Social Work of Cordillera Career Development College (CCDC) warmly welcomed the students and faculty members from Universidad de Sta. Isabel de Naga, Inc. for a meaningful and memorable academic engagement under the LeD (Learners Development) initiative entitled “Bridging Horizons: Educational Tour of Universidad de Sta. Isabel de Naga, Inc. to CCDC’s Social Work Program.”

Held at the CCDC campus in Buyagan, Poblacion, La Trinidad, Benguet, the activity gathered 64 Social Work students from CCDC and 93 visiting students, accompanied by their faculty members—Dr. Nathalie C. Ranin, Edlyn M. Batutay, and Laila C. Romero. The delegation was formally received by Ms. Melody Calpase-Ducat, Dean of the College of Social Work, and Ms. Kimberlyn Valdez, Social Work Program Coordinator, who facilitated the academic exchange and institutional engagement.

Anchored on the philosophy of CCDC that “the student is the center of the educational process,” the activity reflects the institution’s strong commitment to providing quality, inclusive, and culturally responsive education. It also reinforces the College’s vision of becoming “a center of quality education for culturally diverse and global learners,” and its mission of developing socially responsible and globally competent professionals.

More than a formal academic visit, the educational tour evolved into a dynamic platform for connection, collaboration, and cultural exchange. Through guided campus tours, structured program presentations, and interactive discussions, the visiting students were introduced to the Social Work program, institutional practices, and student life at CCDC. These engagements enabled participants to contextualize classroom theories within real-world academic settings and deepen their understanding of social work education.

The day was marked by genuine interactions and shared experiences, as students and faculty members from both institutions exchanged insights about their academic journeys, fieldwork experiences, and aspirations as future social workers. The atmosphere was filled with enthusiasm, laughter, and meaningful conversations, highlighting the importance of peer learning and professional solidarity.

A notable highlight of the visit was the guided campus tour, where guests were introduced to various offices, classrooms, and learning spaces within CCDC. Another key feature of the activity was the cultural exchange, during which students shared local dialects and expressions, fostering mutual appreciation of linguistic diversity. Adding to the experience, the visiting delegation enthusiastically participated in the community dance, the “Grand March and Tayaw,” embracing local traditions and celebrating unity through movement and shared cultural expression.

This immersive experience underscored that social work education extends beyond the classroom. It is rooted in building relationships, appreciating diversity, and cultivating empathy – core values essential to the profession. The activity also promoted equity, care ethics, and community engagement, allowing students to witness how these principles are embodied in different institutional contexts.

Furthermore, the LeD initiative contributes significantly to quality assurance and accreditation efforts, as it documents innovative co-curricular practices that enhance student learning outcomes. It demonstrates CCDC’s proactive approach in integrating experiential learning opportunities aligned with national and global standards in social work education.

Ultimately, “Bridging Horizons” stands as a testament to the power of academic collaboration and shared purpose. The visit not only enriched the participants’ academic and cultural perspectives but also strengthened the bond between two institutions committed to nurturing competent, compassionate, and service-driven social workers.

Indeed, the experience served as a meaningful reminder that the heart of social work lies in connection, cultural understanding, and collective commitment to service—values that transcend classrooms and unite future professionals in their shared mission to make a difference.

By: Kimberlyn Valdez(SW Faculty), Dechiree P. Lee (SWMC Councilor)

Photo Layout by: Jhulie N. Alangwawi (SWMC Vice Mayor)

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Strengthening Academic Excellence through Shared Learning: A Faculty Development Re-Echo Session of the College of Social Work

On February 21, 2026, from 12:00 PM to 5:00 PM, the College of Social Work (CSW) of Cordillera Career Development College (CCDC) conducted a meaningful and enriching Faculty Development Session/Capacity Building Activity at the CSW Office, JMM Building, La Trinidad, Benguet. Anchored on the theme of knowledge sharing and professional growth, the activity, titled “Faculty Development Session/ Capacity Building: Re-Echo of Trainings and Seminars Attended in Semester 1, SY 2025–2026,” served as a platform for faculty members to consolidate, reflect on, and disseminate valuable insights gained from various academic and professional engagements.

The session was led by the Dean of Social Work, Melody Calpase-Ducat, and actively participated in by the faculty members: Aelline G. Carame, Cherry Cayadan, Liza C. Balao, Jeniffer L. Luciano, Marjorie M. Amkinit, and Kimberlyn M. Valdez. Their collective involvement demonstrated a strong commitment to continuous learning and academic excellence.

Grounded in the principles of capacity building and collaborative learning, the re-echo session highlighted the importance of institutional knowledge transfer. It provided an avenue for faculty members to share key learnings from attended seminars and trainings, thereby ensuring that professional development extends beyond individual participation and contributes to the overall advancement of the program. This initiative aligns with the standards set by CHED Memorandum Order No. 39, s. 2017, particularly in strengthening competencies in practicum supervision, ethical leadership, and responsive social work education.

Among the featured trainings was the PASWI session on “Intergenerational Links and Challenges for Social Work Practice,” which emphasized the evolving dynamics between generations and the need for responsive and inclusive interventions in social work practice. The NASWEI 51st Biennial Convention, themed “Reimagining Social Work Education,” offered forward-looking perspectives on curriculum innovation, digital transformation, and the integration of global trends into local practice.

The session also included insights from TALAKAYAN: Knowledge in Court Social Work Setting, which provided practical understanding of legal processes and the vital role of social workers within judicial systems. Another significant input came from the activity titled “Dialogue with Social Work Students: Bridging the Gap Between Theory and Practice,” which underscored the importance of aligning academic instruction with real-world experiences to better prepare students for professional practice.

Additionally, learnings from the WURI Global Conference 2025, with the theme “When Innovation Becomes a Global Movement,” enriched the discussion by highlighting the role of innovation, interdisciplinary approaches, and global collaboration in shaping the future of higher education and social work.

The re-echo session fostered a culture of peer learning, reflective practice, and professional solidarity among faculty members. It enabled the immediate application of best practices in teaching, assessment, and curriculum development, tailored to the local context while remaining globally informed. More importantly, it reinforced the value of lifelong learning and adaptability among educators in an ever-evolving academic landscape.

Through this initiative, the College of Social Work continues to demonstrate its commitment to delivering quality education, strengthening faculty competencies, and ultimately enhancing student outcomes. The activity stands as a testament to the institution’s dedication to academic excellence, innovation, and transformative social work education.

By: Kimberlyn Valdez and Jennifer L. Luciano (SW Faculties)

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Man-iyaman recognition program honors employees, students 

Close to 150 employees and students were recognized for their excellence and faithful service to the Cordillera Career Development College during the Man-iyaman Recognition Program on April 4 at the Tupayya Gym. 

The Man-iyaman program honors its service awardees and retirees, and Padayaw awards for employees of the year and outstanding students. 

The service awardees were led by Board Treasurer Sofia Fernando Malaya and Basic Education Principal Amor Banasen Segundo, who were both lauded for their 30 years in service. 

In her response, Segundo fondly remembers attending the groundbreaking of CCDC’s first building in its current location, after renting at the Pelizloy Building in Km. 5 as its classroom in the mid 90s. 

After staying with CCDC for a long time, those close to her asked why she did not apply to the Department of Education.

“Why would I look for another job when I’m happy here, especially because after some time, my former students became my colleagues,” Segundo said. 

With three years left prior to her retirement, the Program Coordinator of the Senior High School said she considers CCDC as her “home away from home.” 

College of Criminal Justice Education Dean Dennis Butag, meanwhile, is one of the 20 years of service awardee together with Prosecutor Mark Clifford Maranes; the latter started as a CCJE professor prior to being hired as a professor in the College of Law.   

“I look forward to continually being part of the accomplishment of the school’s vision and mission,” Butag said in his speech. He was hired after topping the criminology licensure exam in 2004. 

For Judge Ruth Bawayan, one of the 10 year service awardees, being a part of CCDC as a faculty member of the College of Law gives her a sense of community. 

“Thank you very much CCDC for caring enough, for giving us a chance to serve our community, and to give back to our profession. Iyaman mi,” Bawayan said.   

Other 10 year service awardees include: Jeff Julian Abanag, Dina Amdos, Atty. Andres Arnold Lampacan, Pros. Shirley Jane Malaya, Rosebel Miguel, Atty. Jansen Nacar, Reynaldo Samson, and Vience Villanueva. 

The 15 year service awardees are: Ret. Judge Adolfo Malingan, Judge Rufus Malecdan, Jr., Pros. Benedict Pataras, Ret. Judge Joseph Patnaan, and Atty. Miller Quintin, Jr.  

Five-year service awardees include Jacqueline Acod, Atty. Alexis Agmata, Pros. Jonjon Amcay, Marfelyn Angyatao, Pros. Gerard Babate, Bliss Bacacao, Atty. Bartolome Baldas Jr., Atty. Julio Barcellano Jr., Torino Basilan, Diana Brudo, Atty. Cyrus Calaya, Marcial Etong, Arlene Lalio, Jean Langan, Ret. Pros. Elmer Sagsago, Atty. Susana Umayat, Kimberlyn Valdez, and Atty. Julie Binaldo-Velasco.

President Sherry Junette Tagle was recognized for her 25 years service while  newly-retired Abello Kollin Fernando, was lauded for serving CCDC for 29 years prior to his retirement last year. 

Employees of the year are Melvin Ngayaan, Jane Sapilio, Cherry Cayadan, Silverluz Bataclao as faculty; Marivel Muñoz and Amor Segundo as Dean and Program Coordinator; Delia Sallied and Ronnie Ville Valdez as non-teaching staff; and Jaylo Lacaden and Chita Mang-usan as office heads.  

Padayaw awards were also given to students which includes the Tatak CCDC outstanding student award, emerging leaders award, volunteer service award, academic excellence award, CCDC pride award and the newsmaker award for student athletes who made waves in the recent CARAA. 

Vice President for Administration Atty. Annabelle Gondales thanked all those who became part of CCDC for 32 years—the students, employees, parents, partners, the community, and the Almighty for His guidance all these years.  

“As we celebrate these achievements today, let us also remember that our true strength lies not in our individual accomplishments, but in our collective efforts to build a community that values excellence, inclusivity and social responsibility,” Gondales said. 

The program is the culminating event of CCDC’s 32nd anniversary celebration with the theme: “Grassroots to Global: Championing Excellence Across Disciplines.”