Sustainable Development Goals

The UNESCO National Commission of the Philippines (UNACOM) recently convened a significant learning session on Education for Dr. Jestoni P. Babia, President of the City College of CDO and a consultant for UNACOM ESD, played a crucial role in the event by presenting the ESD for 2030 Country Initiative Report and the ESD Guidebook. His expertise and insights significantly contributed to the discussion on promoting sustainable development through education.

Mr. Jerome Jett L. Torres, Director of the Office for Lifelong Learning and Professional Development, also actively took part in the learning session and workshop.

Mr. Torres had the opportunity to learn best practices from the Philippines' member basic education schools, local universities and colleges, and state universities and colleges. His engagement in the UNACOM networks will undoubtedly enhance the City College of CDO's involvement in advocating for UNESCO's Education for Sustainable Development.

To effectively uphold its principles and objectives, the session resulted in the development of five key lines of action aimed at fostering a more comprehensive and diverse approach to implementing ESD. These lines of action include advancing policy, transforming learning environments, building the capacities of educators, empowering and mobilizing youth, and accelerating local-level actions.

A recent UNESCO publication, "Education for Sustainable Development: A Roadmap," comprehensively discussed these priorities.

The learning session served as an important platform for knowledge sharing and collaboration among educators, policymakers, and stakeholders involved in promoting sustainable development through education. The insights gained from this event will undoubtedly contribute to the ongoing efforts to integrate sustainable development principles into educational practices at various levels.

As it envisions the future, it is crucial that it maintains education for sustainable development as a core priority in our collective endeavor to construct a more sustainable and equitable world.

The commitment and dedication demonstrated at the learning session underscore the unwavering resolve to harness the power of education to drive positive change towards a more sustainable future.

On September 19, 2024, select personnel, faculty, and non-teaching staff from the City College of Cagayan de Oro will participate in a Mangrove Planting Activity alongside other departments and offices under the Local Government Unit of Cagayan de Oro City.

The event, which will take place at 6:30 AM at the Mangrove Reserve in Bonbon, Cagayan de Oro City, is part of the 124th Philippine Civil Service Anniversary celebration.

Through this initiative, the institution reaffirms its commitment to actively contribute to the global efforts on environmental sustainability by protecting coastal ecosystems and mitigating the impacts of climate change.

The Geneva Office for Human Rights Education (GO-HRE), Switzerland, has pledged its support to the City College of Cagayan de Oro, signing a commitment agreement during a partnership meeting held at the City College’s Agusan Annex on September 2, 2024.

This partnership focuses on promoting human rights, fostering respect, tolerance, and equality. GO-HRE's support includes donating books, learning resources, human rights literature, and office equipment to the institution.

Dr. Jestoni P. Babia, Interim President of City College of Cagayan de Oro, expressed gratitude for the partnership, emphasizing its importance in enhancing the institution’s mission to educate students on human rights. "This collaboration will significantly impact our curriculum and empower our students to become advocates for human rights," he stated.

Under this partnership, both organizations aim to develop training programs and workshops that will equip students and faculty with the necessary skills and knowledge to address human rights issues effectively. Furthermore, the initiative aims to foster a culture of dialogue and understanding within the college community and beyond, contributing to a more just and equitable society.

The collaboration between City College of Cagayan de Oro and GO-HRE marks a significant step towards building a more inclusive and informed society, where the values of human rights are upheld and celebrated.

The Higalaay Multidisciplinary Research Festival 2024 officially kicked off today, August 29, 2024, at the Barangay Agusan Gymnasium, CDOC, with the theme "Advancing Urban Development of Cagayan de Oro through Education and the RISE Agenda."

This pioneering research conference, aligned with the RISE Agenda, aims to foster a culture of research and innovation by showcasing the investigative work of students, faculty, and local researchers, addressing local challenges, and empowering the academic community of CDO.

The event began with special messages of support from Hon. Councilor Suzette Magtajas-Daba, Chairperson of the Committee on Education, and Atty. Yenyen O. Empinado-Alabe, representing the Office of Vice Mayor Jocelyn "Bebot" Rodriguez.

Following these messages, plenary speakers Dr. Sarah O. Namoco and Dr. Angelo Mark Walag, esteemed professors at USTP-CDO, delivered insightful discussions on their respective research topics: "Empowering Future Innovators: Aligning Research for Employment, Entrepreneurship, and Product Innovation" and "Harnessing Game-Based Learning to Advance Cagayan de Oro's RISE Agenda through Innovative Educational Practices." These research presentations, along with a plenary talk by Mr. Roderico Y. Dumaug Jr., set a dynamic tone for the day.

Furthermore, the event featured vibrant cultural performances by the XU Dance Troupe from Xavier University - Ateneo de Cagayan and the Gintong Amihan Dance Troupe from the University of Science and Technology of Southern Philippines.

The morning session concluded with a panel discussion on Kagay-anon Culture, moderated by Ms. Candice Gamayon, NSTP Director of the City College of Cagayan de Oro.

Stay tuned, mga kauban, as participants will present their research this afternoon in both the poster and oral categories!

Gipasigarbo sa City College of CDO ang 3rd quarter Housekeeping iskolar-trainees nga sila Mr. Rodel Rollo Jr. ug Ms. Cedric Mae Mangubat nga giilang kampeon sa gipahigayon nga Bed Set-up Eksibisyon sa katapusang adlaw sa Kahigayonan Expo and Job Fair niadtong Agosto 14, 2024, Miyerkules, sa Activity Center, Ayala Malls Centrio, Cagayan de Oro City.

Ang eksibisyon gisalmutan sa unom (6) ka lain-laing institusyon ning atong siyudad, diin ang Vineyard Polytechnic College nakakuha as 1st Placer ug 2nd Placer usab ang Northern Mindanao Technological Institute.

Mapasalamaton usab ang City College of CDO ug tanang komite sa Kahigayonan 2024, nga gipangulohan sa Out-of-School Youth Development Alliance (OSYDA) kauban ang Oro Youth Development Office (OYDO), sa Seda Centrio ug Hotel 801 sa ilang suporta isip mga panguna nga esponsors sa maong kalihokan.

Sa City College of Cagayan de Oro, dili lang technical skills ang ginahatag, apan gihingusgan usab sa mga magtutudlo ang paghatag og mga oportunidad sa mga iskolar-trainees pinaagi sa pag-apil og mga aktibidad nga makapalambu sa ilang kahibalo ug kahanas sa napiling kwalipikasyon.

Pilipinas Shell Foundation Inc. signed a Memorandum of Agreement with City College of Cagayan De Oro on July 25, 2024, at Session Hall, City Hall to provide employment opportunities to 38 Kagay-anon youths.

The signed Memorandum of Agreement marked a significant step forward in both parties’ mission to empower thirty-eight (38) Kagay-anons through technical and vocational skills training under PSFI's Sanayan sa Kakayahang Industriyal (SKIL) Program.

Esteemed representatives from PSFI, including Ms. Daphne Delos Reyes, Ms. Ma. Elvy Dominicata, and Executive Director Mr. Sebastian Quiniones who joined virtually via Zoom, were present, as well as Hon. Alexis Dacer from the Barangay Council of Puntod and Kagawad Nestor C. Gonzaga from the Barangay Council of Macabalan.

The event was also graced by the presence of City Government dignitaries, led by City Vice Mayor, Hon. Jocelyn “Bebot” Rodriguez representing the City Mayor, Hon. Rolando “Klarex” A. Uy; City Councilor, Hon. Suzette Magtajas-Daba; PESO Department Manager, Ms. Kathleen Kate Sorilla; and the City College of Cagayan de Oro’s Interim President, Dr. Jestoni P. Babia.

This initiative seamlessly aligns with the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goal 17: Partnership for the Goals and the RISE Agenda under the administration of Mayor Klarex Uy.

The City College of Cagayan de Oro faculty and non-teaching staff conducted a three-day Mid-year Synergy Summit on June 27-29, 2024, at the Country Village Hotel in Carmen, Cagayan de Oro City. The event aimed to foster unity and collaboration within the City College community.

The summit's first day featured the introduction of new faculty and staff, followed by departmental accomplishment reports. Dr. Jestoni P. Babia, the Interim College President, delivered an inspiring talk on “Empowering City College: Identifying and Strengthening Our Contributions to the Sustainable Development Goals,” aligning the college's efforts with the global SDGs.

On the second day, Mr. Jordan Ian Apat, Consultant to the Mayor, led a seminar-workshop on the Local Economic Enterprise (LEE). This session explored strategies to enhance the college's local economic impact, with participants engaging in discussions and action planning to support the LEE initiative.

The final day focused on "Harmony in the Workplace," with Mr. Gordon Griffith sharing strategies for effective communication and conflict resolution. These values were further reinforced when the faculty and staff had their 3rd Learning Circles session, titled ‘Never Nega!’, which fostered continuous learning and community spirit.

The summit concluded with Team Development Games, allowing the faculty and staff of the City College of Cagayan de Oro to engage in activities like boat sinking, water relay, tower making, and trust games, all of which aimed to test trust, confidence, and thinking skills, while building camaraderie.

The event wrapped up with an awarding ceremony and closing remarks from Dr. Babia, emphasizing collaboration, continuous learning, and a harmonious work environment. The Mid-Year Synergy Summit 2024 reinforced City College of Cagayan de Oro's commitment to a supportive and productive workplace, ensuring its continued growth and success.

Bangkok, Thailand - June 15, 2024 - Dr. Jestoni P. Babia, the Interim President of City College of Cagayan de Oro (CDO), recently attended the Global Sustainable Development Congress held in Bangkok, Thailand, from June 10-14, 2024. Organized by Times Higher Education, the congress assembled global thought leaders, academics, and industry innovators to tackle urgent solutions to sustainability challenges.

Dr. Babia was personally invited by Times Higher Education to showcase City College of CDO's potential contributions to sustainability efforts. This invitation underscores the institution's growing prominence and its dedication to making a significant impact on both local communities and the broader world.

Under Mayor Klarex Uy's leadership, City College of CDO is committed to enhancing its global presence and contributing to international discussions on sustainability. The college plans to participate in the Times Higher Education Impact Rankings starting next year, aiming to demonstrate its role in achieving the United Nations' Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

Mayor Uy supported Dr. Babia's attendance by covering travel expenses, while Times Higher Education waived the registration fees, highlighting the collaboration between the city government and the educational institution.

This event signifies City College of CDO's direction to lead in sustainable development practices and its dedication to advancing knowledge and innovation in sustainability. The upcoming participation in the Times Higher Education Impact Rankings reflects the institution's commitment to sustainability and its eagerness to contribute to global efforts.

In a recent landmark event organized by Okayama University, UNESCO Japan, UNESCO Bangkok, and UNESCO Almaty, Dr. Jestoni P. Babia, President of City College of CDO, led discussions at the Asian Forum on Futures of Climate Change Education. This gathering, held from May 15th to 19th, 2024, in Almaty, Kazakhstan, stands as a significant milestone in the global fight against climate change, focusing on enhancing climate change education through innovative teaching methods and curriculum development.

The forum showcased the power of collaboration and shared vision among leading teacher education institutions in Asia dedicated to effecting positive change. It provided a platform for Dr. Babia and his fellow delegates from Japan, Mongolia, Indonesia, Kazakhstan, the Philippines, South Korea, Uzbekistan, Tajikistan, and Turkmenistan to exchange ideas, learn from one another, and strategize on how to integrate climate change education into teacher education programs across Asia.

Spearheaded by the Association of Teacher Educators for Climate Change Education (ATECCE), the initiative aims to develop a comprehensive curriculum that equips teachers with the knowledge and skills needed to educate students about climate change. This effort is timely, considering the pressing need to increase awareness and cultivate a generation of environmentally aware citizens equipped to address the challenges of climate change.

The event underscored the pivotal role of education in combating climate change, stressing the necessity of including climate change education in both basic and higher education curricula. Through a collaborative approach, participants had the opportunity to share best practices, challenges, and opportunities faced in implementing climate change education initiatives in their home countries.

Under Dr. Babia's leadership, City College of CDO will pioneer the Philippines' participation in Phase II of the ATECCE project in partnership with the local government unit of Cagayan de Oro under the dynamic leadership of Mayor Rolando A. UY. This initiative not only reflects the college's dedication to environmental sustainability but also establishes it as a frontrunner in promoting climate change education in the region.

The Asian Forum on Futures of Climate Change Education shines as a symbol of hope, demonstrating the capacity of collective action and innovation to shape a sustainable future. As Dr. Babia and his team continue to advocate for this cause, the influence of their work will likely reach far beyond the classroom, inspiring a new generation of environmental guardians ready to confront the challenges of our era.

Under Presidential Proclamation No. 115-A, the month of March was declared as Fire Prevention Month. Embracing this initiative, the City College of Cagayan de Oro faculty and staff actively participated in a comprehensive Fire Safety Lecture and Drill.

This important activity was hosted by our Safety and Security Section under the PPS Division and co-facilitated with the guidance and expertise of our Bureau of Fire Protection - Puerto Station headed by Station Commander Insp. Louis Roy B. Solamo and his dedicated team, FO1 Marjun Oyo-a, FO1 Precious Faith Llejes, FO1 Gemray F. Revaca, and FO1 Reinvelle Ancheta.

The session covered crucial topics including the Powers and Functions of the BUREAU OF FIRE PROTECTION, the Chemistry of Fire, Common Causes of FIRE, Classification of FIRE, and Practical Training on how to use the Fire Extinguisher. This activity underscores the City College of CDO’s commitment to ensuring the safety and security of its academic community. Let's continue to foster a culture of preparedness and vigilance, not just this month, but all year round.

#CityCollegeofCagayandeOro #FirePreventionMonth #SafetyFirst #AimHigher #KaubanTaUY #CdeoRise

The City College of Cagayan de Oro set forth an innovative journey during a 4-day research workshop themed "EMPOWERING EDUCATION AND ADMINISTRATION: Structural Modeling Workshop for Sustainable Development Goals," held at the Limketkai Luxe Hotel from January 10-13, 2024. This event aimed to strengthen the institution's commitment to sustainable education by providing a platform for in-depth discussion and application of progressive educational research models.

The research workshop brought together faculty and staff from various clusters and offices of the City College of Cagayan de Oro. The main speaker throughout the sessions was an educator and research expert, Prof. Benedict Al. E. Candia, who holds a Doctorate in Research and Evaluation and is currently an executive coordinator for the Education for Sustainable Development (ESD) Center for research, where he has significantly contributed to the field.

Over the course of the four-day workshop, each day featured insightful topics. The first day centered on the 'Basics of Research,' where Dr. Jestoni P. Babia, the Interim President of the City College of CDO, shared his knowledge and insights. The second and third days delved deeper into the 'Introduction of Structural Modeling' and 'Advanced Structural Modeling Techniques,' facilitated by Professor Candia. The workshop concluded on the fourth day with a focus on ‘Application and Presentation,’ guided by Prof. Candia's expertise. Participants from the City College of CDO were given the opportunity to present their proposed research per office and gained valuable input and feedback from the panelists.

The City College of Cagayan de Oro embraces the spirit of innovation and sustainable education, laying the groundwork for a brighter future.

Here’s to empowering education and administration for a world that thrives on knowledge and sustainability!

A collaborative effort between the City College of Cagayan de Oro and the University of San Jose-Recoletos School of Education has recently made waves in the academic world, publishing an Elsevier Scopus indexed journal titled “ESD Integration in Education Systems and Its Relationship to Faculty Mandated Function,” issued in November 2023.

Led by the Interim President of the City College, Dr. Jestoni P. Babia, and Prof. Benedict Al E. Candia from USJ-R, with co-researchers Maria Victoria B. Trinidad, Roxanne Jul L. Tandang, and James Patrick R. Santos, the study examined the correlation between Education for Sustainable Development (ESD) integration in Teacher Education Institutions' systems and the mandated functions of teacher education.

The study involved surveying 109 faculty members across Teacher Education Institutions in the Visayas and found no correlation between the learning environment or policy and mandated functions. Contrary to conventional wisdom, it identified intriguing connections between capability building and youth engagement with the mandated function, as well as community partnerships and professional development. Challenges identified in the study include limited faculty capability, awareness gaps, time constraints, and inadequate administrative support. However, enablers such as existing community partnerships, unpublished research journals, professional development programs, policy alignment with DepEd and CHED, and potential internationalization were also identified.

This collaborative endeavor aligns seamlessly with one of City College's core objectives – to enhance research and development opportunities for local and national training and policy formulation. As outlined by the President, the institution is committed to taking a leading role in research and collaborative activities, fortifying the foundation of sustainable development, and contributing to the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals.