Center for Human Rights Education - City College of Cagayan de Oro

Thank you CHR X

𝗖𝗖𝗖𝗗𝗢 𝗣𝗿𝗼𝗳𝗲𝘀𝘀𝗼𝗿𝘀 𝗦𝗵𝗼𝘄𝗰𝗮𝘀𝗲 𝗥𝗲𝘀𝗲𝗮𝗿𝗰𝗵 𝗘𝘅𝗰𝗲𝗹𝗹𝗲𝗻𝗰𝗲 𝗮𝘁 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗜𝗻𝘁𝗲𝗿𝗻𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻𝗮𝗹 𝗖𝗼𝗻𝗳𝗲𝗿𝗲𝗻𝗰𝗲 𝗼𝗻 𝗠𝘂𝗹𝘁𝗶𝗱𝗶𝘀𝗰𝗶𝗽𝗹𝗶𝗻𝗮𝗿𝘆 𝗥𝗲𝘀𝗲𝗮𝗿𝗰𝗵

Faculty researchers from the City College of Cagayan de Oro (CCCDO) represented the institution with pride at the International Conference on Multidisciplinary Research (ICMR), held at the Vietnamese-German University (VGU) last November 6–7, 2025. The event gathered scholars from across Asia and beyond to exchange ideas, share innovative practices, and strengthen academic partnerships.

Two CCCDO research teams presented studies aligned with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), reflecting the college’s ongoing efforts to support quality education and community well-being.

Dr. Jean Loquillano , Director for Research and Publication and Center for Human Rights Education, together with co-author Dr. Joel Potane, Vice-President for Research, Innovation, and Technology Transfer, presented “Self-awareness, Emotional Intelligence, and Personal Growth: A Mediation Analysis Among College Students Aligned with the Sustainable Development Goals on Education and Well-Being.”

Presented under the Educational Psychology and Learning Well-Being track, their work examined the role of emotional intelligence and self-awareness in student development, offering insights that support SDG 4 (Quality Education) and SDG 3 (Good Health and Well-Being).

Meanwhile, a second CCCDO research team from the College of Education; Prof. Psyche B. Cambo, Prof. Charlie Job D. Sumili, Prof. Aiza Mae D. Cahansa, and Prof. Jonathan Madronero — showcased their study “Beyond Certification and Global Inclusion: Assessing the Role of TVET in Advancing SDG-Aligned and Future-Ready Technical Education in Mindanao, Philippines.”

Presented under the Engineering, Technology, and Sustainable Education category, the study explored the evolving role of Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) in Mindanao. It highlighted the importance of responsive curriculum design, strong industry partnerships, and sustainability-focused programs to prepare learners for a competitive and technology-driven future.

The successful international presentation showcased CCCDO's commitment to cutting-edge research, fostered vital global connections, and reaffirmed the college's dedication to advancing quality education and societal development in the Philippines and across Asia.

𝗖𝗖𝗖𝗗𝗢, 𝗚𝗢-𝗛𝗥𝗘 𝗙𝗼𝗿𝗴𝗲 𝗣𝗮𝗿𝘁𝗻𝗲𝗿𝘀𝗵𝗶𝗽 𝘁𝗼 𝗔𝗱𝘃𝗮𝗻𝗰𝗲 𝗛𝘂𝗺𝗮𝗻 𝗥𝗶𝗴𝗵𝘁𝘀 𝗘𝗱𝘂𝗰𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻

The City College of Cagayan de Oro (CCCDO) and the Geneva Office of Human Rights Education (GO-HRE) officially signed a Memorandum of Agreement last October 17, 2025, at the CCCDO Audio-Visual Room, to formalize a partnership focused on advancing human rights education within the college and the wider community.

Representing GO-HRE and COLEGA Philippines were Philippine Country Director Melanie I. Shatzer and Atty. Ray Shatzer, while CCCDO President Dr. Jestoni P. Babia led the college delegation, joined by Dr. Helmae E. Tapanan, Vice President for Academic Affairs; Dr. Joel D. Potane, Vice President for Research, Innovation, and Technology Transfer; and Dr. Jean T. Loquillano, Director for Research and Human Rights Education. The ceremony was attended by student leaders, college personnel, and the COLEGA Philippines team.

In his message, Dr. Babia expressed appreciation for GO-HRE’s support, emphasizing that the partnership represents a holistic approach to promoting human rights through curriculum enhancement, faculty training, and student engagement. He noted that the initiative aims to equip learners with critical thinking, problem-solving, and communication skills to become advocates of human rights in their professional and personal lives.

Director Shatzer lauded CCCDO’s strong implementation of human rights education, noting that among the nine countries using the COLEGA manual, the Philippines—particularly CCCDO—has achieved one of the most commendable, research-driven outcomes. She shared that this impact has been reflected in improved student behavior and a notable reduction in bullying incidents in schools.

Dr. Loquillano, who introduced the agreement, emphasized the shared responsibility of both institutions to promote awareness and uphold fundamental rights. “We are gathered today to launch an initiative that plants the seeds of justice, tolerance, and respect in CCCDO and the broader community,” she said.

This partnership underscores CCCDO’s continued commitment to advancing global goals— particularly SDG 4, 16, and 17, by embedding human rights principles into higher education and empowering learners to contribute to a more humane and inclusive society.

𝗖𝗖𝗖𝗗𝗢 𝗥𝗲𝗰𝗲𝗶𝘃𝗲𝘀 𝗖𝗼𝗺𝗺𝗲𝗻𝗱𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻 𝗳𝗼𝗿 𝗣𝗶𝗼𝗻𝗲𝗲𝗿𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗜𝗻𝘁𝗲𝗿𝗻𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻𝗮𝗹 𝗥𝗲𝘀𝗲𝗮𝗿𝗰𝗵 𝗖𝗼𝗻𝗳𝗲𝗿𝗲𝗻𝗰𝗲 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗛𝗶𝗴𝗮𝗹𝗮𝗮𝘆 𝗠𝘂𝗹𝘁𝗶𝗱𝗶𝘀𝗰𝗶𝗽𝗹𝗶𝗻𝗮𝗿𝘆 𝗥𝗲𝘀𝗲𝗮𝗿𝗰𝗵 𝗙𝗲𝘀𝘁𝗶𝘃𝗮𝗹

The Local Government of Cagayan de Oro, through its City Tourism Office, awarded the City College of Cagayan de Oro (CCCDO) with a Plaque of Commendation during Salamat Higala on September 19, 2025, at the City Tourism Hall. The recognition highlighted the college’s outstanding initiative in spearheading the city’s first-ever International Research Conference and 2nd Higalaay Multidisciplinary Research Festival.

Held on August 15, 2025, the event brought together researchers and innovators to showcase projects aligned with the city’s RISE Agenda (Regional Leadership, Institutional Development, Safety and Social Development, and Economic Growth). By advancing higher education and research, the event directly contributes to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 4: Quality Education, which calls for inclusive, equitable, and lifelong learning opportunities for all.

The pioneering conference was among the academic highlights of the month-long Higalaay Festival. It served as a platform for knowledge-sharing across disciplines, linking academic pursuits with real-world solutions that support both local and global development goals.

Expressing their gratitude for the recognition, CCCDO President, Dr. Jestoni P. Babia, and Vice President for Research, Innovation, and Technology Transfer, Dr. Joel D. Potane, affirmed that the award reflects the college’s unwavering commitment to academic excellence, community development, and cultural celebration.

The Salamat Higala program served as a thanksgiving tribute to partner institutions, government agencies, private organizations, and individuals who contributed to the success of the festival. CCCDO’s recognition underscored the vital role of the academe in enriching Cagayan de Oro’s annual celebration while advancing education and sustainable development.

𝐂𝐂𝐂𝐃𝐎 𝐂𝐥𝐢𝐧𝐜𝐡𝐞𝐬 𝐓𝐡𝐫𝐞𝐞 𝐑𝐞𝐬𝐞𝐚𝐫𝐜𝐡 𝐖𝐢𝐧𝐬 𝐚𝐭 𝟓𝐭𝐡 𝐈𝐧𝐭𝐞𝐫𝐧𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧𝐚𝐥 𝐂𝐨𝐧𝐟𝐞𝐫𝐞𝐧𝐜𝐞 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝟐𝟎𝟐𝟓 𝐍𝐎𝐓𝐄𝐃 𝐍𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧𝐚𝐥 𝐂𝐨𝐧𝐯𝐞𝐧𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧

City College of Cagayan de Oro has once again made the community proud after bringing home three (3) major research awards during the 5th International Conference and 2025 NOTED National Convention held at Mallberry Suites Business Hotel, Cagayan de Oro City on September 27, 2025.

With the theme “From Vision to Reality: Strengthening Pathways to Quality Education and Other Sustainable Development Goals,” the event gathered educators and researchers nationwide. CCCDO stood out with a string of victories that showcased the excellence, passion, and dedication of its faculty researchers and administrators.

The City College of CDO delegation secured the following awards:

• 𝑩𝒆𝒔𝒕 𝑷𝒂𝒑𝒆𝒓 𝒇𝒐𝒓 𝑶𝒓𝒂𝒍 𝑷𝒓𝒆𝒔𝒆𝒏𝒕𝒆𝒓𝒔 (𝑺𝒆𝒔𝒔𝒊𝒐𝒏 𝑨)
The paper “Promoting SDGs 10 and 16: Building a Child Rights-Respecting Community through the Colega Teaching Manual in Cagayan de Oro City” was hailed as the best session paper. The winning team was composed of Dr. Jean Loquillano, Dr. Kurt Candilas, and Dr. Joel Potane.

• 𝑩𝒆𝒔𝒕 𝑷𝒂𝒑𝒆𝒓 𝒇𝒐𝒓 𝑶𝒓𝒂𝒍 𝑷𝒓𝒆𝒔𝒆𝒏𝒕𝒆𝒓𝒔 (𝑺𝒆𝒔𝒔𝒊𝒐𝒏 𝑩)
Another research triumph came through the study “Academic Resources and Wellbeing as Predictors of Academic Performance: Insights and Future Directions at City College in the Context of SDGs 3, 4, and 10.” This work was presented by Dr. Joel Potane, Ms. Faith Colarte, Dr. Melody Agcito, and Mr. Valcyrus Madarieta.

• 𝑷𝒐𝒔𝒕𝒆𝒓 𝑷𝒓𝒆𝒔𝒆𝒏𝒕𝒂𝒕𝒊𝒐𝒏 𝑾𝒊𝒏𝒏𝒆𝒓
CCCDO also shined in the poster category with “Satisfaction through Multidimensional Visualization.” Led by Prof. Jonathan Madronero of City College, together with Ms. Socorro Gultiano and Ms. Rhea Rose Cagas, the project emphasized innovative approaches in understanding satisfaction through data visualization.

These achievements mark a triple win for City College of Cagayan de Oro, proving once again the strength of its research community and its commitment to advancing education in line with the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals.

With pride and gratitude, CCCDO celebrates this milestone as an inspiration to its students, faculty, and the entire community, paving the way for more meaningful contributions in education and nation-building.

𝗖𝗖𝗖𝗗𝗢 𝗣𝗿𝗼𝗳𝗲𝘀𝘀𝗼𝗿𝘀 𝗝𝘂𝗱𝗴𝗲 𝗕𝗥𝗜𝗚𝗛𝗧 𝟮𝟬𝟮𝟱: 𝗣𝗿𝗼𝗷𝗲𝗰𝘁 𝗠𝗘𝗡𝗧𝗢𝗥 𝗖𝘂𝗹𝗺𝗶𝗻𝗮𝘁𝗲𝘀 𝘄𝗶𝘁𝗵 𝗔𝘄𝗮𝗿𝗱-𝗪𝗶𝗻𝗻𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗥𝗲𝘀𝗲𝗮𝗿𝗰𝗵

Six professors from the City College of Cagayan de Oro (CCCDO) served as panelists for the Department of Education– Cagayan de Oro’s Building Research Innovation and Growth for Higher Order Thinking (BRIGHT) 2025 held on October 10, 2025, at Bayabas National High School, Cagayan de Oro City.

Representing CCCDO were Dr. Joel D. Potane, Vice President for Research, Innovation, and Technology Transfer; Dr. Ray Butch D. Mahinay, Vice President for Extension and Social Development Services; Dr. Kurt Candilas, Vice President for Administration; Dr. Jean T. Loquillano, Director for Research and Human Rights Education; Dr. Liza Chua, Dean of the College of Education; and Prof. Jonathan Madronero, Ethics Director.

The event showcased 15 research papers developed through Project MENTOR (Mentoring the Mentors in Teaching and Ongoing Research for Sustainable Education)— an extension initiative of CCCDO’s Research, Innovation, and Technology Transfer Office. The project mentors basic education teachers in conducting basic and action research, promoting a research-driven culture that strengthens teaching and learning practices.

Among the presented studies, the Agusan National High School TLE Teachers won Best Paper in the Teaching and Learning Category for their action research titled “Leveraging Interactive Online Games: Does It Enhance Students' Engagement in Technology and Livelihood Education Class?” The study by Syville Niño U. Dumanon, Anna Kristine Tagulao, and Mae Clair Inciong was guided by CCCDO mentors Dr. Jean T. Loquillano and Ms. Aiza Mae Cahansa.

The BRIGHT 2025: Project MENTOR initiative supports the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) 4, 9, and 17, emphasizing quality education, innovation in teaching, and strong institutional partnerships for sustainable educational development.

𝗖𝗶𝘁𝘆 𝗖𝗼𝗹𝗹𝗲𝗴𝗲 𝗼𝗳 𝗖𝗗𝗢 𝗖𝗼𝗻𝗱𝘂𝗰𝘁𝘀 𝗖𝗮𝗽𝗮𝗰𝗶𝘁𝘆 𝗕𝘂𝗶𝗹𝗱𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗼𝗻 𝗛𝘂𝗺𝗮𝗻 𝗥𝗶𝗴𝗵𝘁𝘀 𝗳𝗼𝗿 𝗕𝗮𝗿𝗮𝗻𝗴𝗮𝘆 𝗔𝗴𝘂𝘀𝗮𝗻 𝗟𝗲𝗮𝗱𝗲𝗿𝘀

The CCCDO, through its Center for Human Rights Education (CHRE), successfully conducted a Capacity Building on Human Rights Education for officials and community leaders of Barangay Agusan on October 9, 2025, at the college’s Audio-Visual Room.

Conducted in partnership with the Commission on Human Rights Region X (CHR-X), the activity brought together barangay officials, youth and zone leaders, members of the Barangay Human Rights Action Team, Barangay Council for the Protection of Children, BADAC, and Federated School PTA Presidents. The initiative focused on strengthening grassroots-level awareness of human rights, emphasizing the importance of empowering local leaders as advocates of justice and inclusivity in their own communities.

The workshop forms part of Project RIGHT (Raising Information and Generating Human Rights Training)—an extension initiative of the CCCDO Center for Human Rights Education Office. The project was initiated by Dr. Jean T. Loquillano, CHRE Director, and supervised by Dr. Ray Butch Mahinay, Vice President for Extension and Social Development Services.

CCCDO President Dr. Jestoni P. Babia expressed his gratitude to CHR-X, headed by Regional Director Atty. Jeanne Ivy F. Abrina, represented during the event by Chief Japeth Villanueva and Information Officer Jade Dapal, for their continued support in advancing human rights education. He further emphasized that Project RIGHT aligns with several SDGs, notably SDG 5, SDG 10, SDG 16, and SDG 17.

Dr. Loquillano highlighted the broader significance of the initiative, stating that, “Human rights education empowers local communities for rights protection, strengthens the implementation of legal mandates, and promotes inclusive community development.”

By equipping community leaders with essential knowledge and tools on human rights, Project RIGHT reinforces CCCDO’s mission to cultivate inclusive, rights-based leadership that upholds dignity, equality, and peace at the grassroots level.

𝗣𝗿𝗲𝘀𝗶𝗱𝗲𝗻𝘁 𝗕𝗮𝗯𝗶𝗮 𝗣𝗿𝗲𝘀𝗲𝗻𝘁𝘀 𝗖𝗛𝗥 𝗖𝗼𝗺𝗺𝗲𝗻𝗱𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻 𝘁𝗼 𝗠𝗮𝘆𝗼𝗿 𝗨𝘆

Dr. Jestoni P. Babia, President of the City College of Cagayan de Oro (CCCDO), presented a plaque of commendation to City Mayor Rolando "Klarex" A. Uy on September 24, 2025 at the City Mayor’s Office. The award, given by the Commission on Human Rights (CHR), recognizes CCCDO as the first local college in Mindanao to establish a Center for Human Rights Education (CHRE).

Dr. Babia, accompanied with the key members of the college's leadership— Dr. Ray Butch Mahinay, Vice President for Education and Social Development Services; Dr. Jean T. Loquillano, Director for the Center of Human Rights Education and Research; and Dr. Kurt Candilas, Vice President for Administration; shared the school’s best practices.

The institution’s initiative is aligned with target 4.7 of Sustainable Development Goal 4 (SDG 4), which aims to ensure all learners acquire the knowledge and skills needed to promote sustainable development, including human rights; SDG 16: Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions; SDG 10: Reduced Inequalities; and SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals.

This recognition from the Commission on Human Rights is not only a commendation for the City College of Cagayan de Oro but also a testament to its commitment to fostering a culture of peace and justice. By establishing the first Center for Human Rights Education in Mindanao, the college has taken a pivotal step toward building a more informed, responsible, and compassionate society, actively contributing to the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals.