Everyone Deserves a Chance: How CCDC Welcomes Students from All Walks of Life

For many young people in the Cordilleras, getting a college education can feel like an impossible dream. Distance, poverty, and life’s unexpected turns often put school on hold—or push it out of reach entirely. But at Cordillera Career Development College (CCDC), we believe that every student, no matter where they come from, deserves a fair shot at building a better future.

This belief is more than just a slogan—it’s our mission. For over 30 years, CCDC has lived by the promise of “Bringing Education Closer to the People,” and today, that promise is stronger than ever.

Opening Doors for the Underserved

In 2024, CCDC didn’t just aim to include students from underrepresented backgrounds—it succeeded. Over 35% of our new college freshmen came from farming families, indigenous communities, or households with limited income.  Many of these students are the first in their family to attend college.

How do we reach them? Our dedicated Guidance and Marketing Team travels to remote public schools, reconnects with out-of-school youth, and makes sure that even the most isolated students know: you are welcome here.

From Getting In to Graduating Strong

It’s one thing to get into college—but it’s another to stay, succeed, and graduate. That’s why we’re proud that 62% of our 2024 graduates came from low-income or rural families. They’ve overcome challenges many people never see—and they did it with the right support.

That support comes through our Ayowan Program, named after the Ibaloi word for “care.” Ayowan offers:

Financial assistance through scholarships and grants,

Emotional and mental health support via counseling and mentoring,

Academic help like tutoring for students who are struggling.

This caring community has helped CCDC achieve one of the highest completion rates in the region—79% of our students finish their program. 

Because once students feel supported in all areas of their lives, they thrive.

Financial Help That Makes a Real Difference

Money should never be the reason someone gives up on college. That’s why nearly half of all CCDC students in 2024 received scholarships or financial aid. We work with government agencies, private sponsors, and offer our own in-house assistance so students can focus more on studying—and less on surviving.

For students from far-flung barangays, we even offer affordable housing on campus. Some give back by helping with school maintenance or security, turning assistance into a form of service and pride

Real Stories, Real People

The power of education is best told through the stories of our students. Like Brent O. Fermin, who grew up in a farming community and worked as a student assistant just to stay in school. Despite the financial and emotional load, he graduated with a degree in Criminology in June 2024—and was honored for Excellence in Student Service

Also, Leorize D. Baleo-ang, who juggled academics and work as a student assistant. With determination and discipline, he earned his degree and became a police officer, now part of the Special Action Force of the Philippine National Police.

These are just two of many inspiring journeys that began at CCDC. Every year, more students like them prove that hard work, matched with the right support, can overcome even the steepest obstacles.

Justice, Community, and a Culture That Cares

Support at CCDC goes beyond tuition. Our Community Legal Aid Center offers free legal help to students and community members who need it most. And our campus is built around respect for Cordilleran values—welcoming students from all tribes, religions, genders, and identities.

Here, you’re not just a student ID. You’re a story, a dream in motion, and a valued member of a caring community.

The Future Starts with a First Step

If you’re a student—or a parent of one—wondering if college is really possible, we’re here to say: yes, it is. CCDC is built for students like you. Whether you’re from a mountain village, a farming family, or just looking for a second chance, there’s a place for you here.

We don’t just offer education. We offer hope, support, and the tools to build a brighter future.

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