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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Consumer’s Welfare Month: Student Empowerment through Hands-On Product Packaging, Labeling, and Resin Jewelry Design

The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) conducted a Product Packaging, Labeling, and Resin Jewelry Design Workshop on November 18, 2025, held at the CCDC Board Room and SHS Iyaman Hall. The activity gathered the BS Entrepreneurship and BS Office Administration students of Cordillera Career Development College for a practical session focused on proper packaging standards, accurate product labeling, and creative resin jewelry crafting.

DTI Resource Speakers, Ms. Necy Calawa and Ms. Rashaira Decoran Tome, discussed essential packaging principles, mandatory label elements, branding, and legal requirements set by national standards. Students learned about product identity, manufacturer information, net weight, ingredients, lot numbers, and expiration dates.

For the creative component, guest facilitator, Ms. Moricca Serreno, introduced the basics of resin jewelry making, teaching techniques, safety practices, and design methods that allowed participants to express creativity through personalized jewelry pieces.

The students then applied their knowledge through hands-on activities: designing their own product labels and creating resin jewelry. These activities strengthened both their technical accuracy and artistic skills.

The program concluded with the awarding of certificates, leaving participants more equipped to produce compliant, attractive, and consumer-friendly products. The workshop emphasized a key message: informed producers help create informed and protected consumers.

ʙᴇɴᴄʜᴍᴀʀᴋɪɴɢ ᴠɪꜱɪᴛ ꜱᴛʀᴇɴɢᴛʜᴇɴꜱ ᴍᴜᴛᴜᴀʟ ʟᴇᴀʀɴɪɴɢ ʙᴇᴛᴡᴇᴇɴ ᴄᴄᴅᴄ ᴀɴᴅ ᴄᴘᴜ ᴏꜰ ɪʟᴏɪʟᴏ ᴄɪᴛʏ

The Social Work Department of the Cordillera Career Development College (CCDC) conducted a formal benchmarking visit on November 29, 2025, at Central Philippine University (CPU) in Iloilo City. This activity was held a day after the 51st NASWEI Biennial Convention and the JSWAP National Leaders’ Assembly/Conference, which the faculty and students respectively attended. Beyond gathering information, the benchmarking served as a collaborative exchange that enabled both institutions to share best practices, institutional strengths, and innovations in social work education.

The CCDC delegation was composed of Dean Melody Calpase-Ducat, Kimberlyn M. Valdez, and Aelline G. Carame, along with student representatives, Hannah Gweneth Busay and Camile Ventura. They were warmly received by CPU Social Work Department members led by Department Chairperson Kareen Lozada and faculty member Ms. Ella Contreras, who facilitated the discussions and campus tour.

CPU, a respected institution with 120 years of educational history, presented an overview of its long-standing academic excellence and its robust quality assurance mechanisms. Of particular significance is CPU’s PAASCU Level III accreditation for several of its programs, including the Social Work program—an affirmation of its sustained commitment to high academic standards, institutional effectiveness, and continuous quality improvement.

During the benchmarking dialogue, CPU shared key institutional practices involving curriculum implementation, research advancement, field instruction supervision, student formation, and community engagement. The team also emphasized their organizational culture, support structures, and well-established partnerships with agencies across various sectors, further highlighting the strengths of their Social Work program.

In reciprocation, the CCDC Social Work faculty presented several good practices and ongoing initiatives within the department. These included academic enrichment activities, student-led programs, community-based engagements, and faculty development efforts. The CCDC delegation also shared updates on the College’s growing involvement in international recognitions and ranking frameworks, such as WURI (World’s Universities with Real Impact), UI GreenMetric, and other global assessments that underscore innovation, sustainability, and social responsibility. This exchange fostered insightful conversations on how international benchmarks can inform and elevate local educational standards and institutional direction.

The visit extended beyond formal discussions, as CPU representatives graciously toured the CCDC group around notable areas of the campus. This enabled the visitors to appreciate CPU’s learning environment, historical landmarks, and institutional culture—further enriching the overall benchmarking experience.

In summary, the activity underscored the value of reciprocal learning and inter-institutional collaboration. Both CCDC and CPU benefited from shared insights, reflective discussions, and the exchange of innovative practices that help strengthen the quality of social work education in the Philippines. The November 29 benchmarking visit stands as a meaningful milestone for the CCDC Social Work Department, offering guidance for future improvements in curriculum development, accreditation efforts, research advancement, and student development. Moreover, it opened pathways for potential long-term partnership and academic cooperation between the two institutions.By: Kimberlyn M. Valdez
Photos from: Ms. Kareen Lozada (CPU SW Department Chairperson)

“Cordillera Career Development College: Academic Partner for Universal Health Care, Awarded at Gawad Kalusugan 2025”

Baguio City, Philippines — October 29, 2025. Cordillera Career Development College (CCDC) was among the distinguished awardees at the prestigious Gawad Kalusugan 2025, held in Baguio City. The event, organized by the Department of Health – Cordillera Administrative Region, celebrated outstanding contributions to public health leadership and governance across the region.

The Gawad Kalusugan 2025 backdrop set the tone for a vibrant and meaningful ceremony, adorned with indigenous motifs, floral arrangements, and woven baskets that reflected the rich cultural heritage of the Cordillera. Amid this festive atmosphere, CCDC representatives received a Certificate of Appreciation recognizing the institution’s unwavering commitment as an Academic Partner in the Municipal Leadership Development Program (MLDP).

Dr. Amelita M. Panglinan, Regional Director of DOH-CAR, personally signed the certificate and commended CCDC’s role in shaping responsive and accountable health governance. The award citation highlighted CCDC’s “invaluable contribution and steadfast support in promoting leadership and governance in the health sector.” Through its academic partnership, the college played a pivotal role in building the capacities of local health leaders, strengthening municipal health systems, and advancing the goals of Universal Health Care in the region. This recognition follows years of collaborative engagement between CCDC and the Department of Health, where the college provided technical expertise, training support, and institutional leadership to empower municipal health officers and stakeholders.

Captured in one of the event’s photographs, CCDC Dean of the College of Health Education, Marivel D. Muñoz, and Principal of Midwifery, Marie Fe E. Kidatan, stood proudly before the Gawad Kalusugan 2025 backdrop, holding the certificate that symbolizes the college’s impact. The image reflects not only institutional achievement but also the spirit of community, resilience, and shared purpose that defines health leadership in the Cordillera.

As CCDC continues to champion educational excellence and community engagement, this award affirms its place as a transformative force in regional development. The college remains committed to nurturing future leaders—not only in health but across sectors—who embody integrity, innovation, and service.

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.

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.

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

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.

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:

1. A Descriptive Analysis of the Utilization of Psychosocial Support and Its Perceived Effectiveness on the Mental Health of 4th-Year College Students of CCDC
2. Coping Mechanism of Nursing Students in Their Graveyard Shift in Related Learning Experience (RLE)
3. Level of Impact of Different Factors on the Academic Performance of Nursing Students
4. Effectiveness of Digital Gamification Strategy in Teaching Mathematics
5. Acceptability and Physico-Chemical Properties of Watercress-Flavored Puto
6. Exploring the Role of Quipper in Facilitating Blended Learning
7. Exploring the Lived Experience of Single Fathers in Raising their Children
8. Journey Towards Registered Social Worker: Understanding Challenges by Social Work Practitioners
9. Lived Experience of Informal Caregivers of Patients with Chronic Kidney Disease
10. Exploring Alcohol Consumption Among Third Year CCDC Criminology Students: Patterns, Motives, and Its Negative Impacts
11. Assessing Safety and Security Measures in Apartments and Boarding Houses of CCDC
12. 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.