BANTAY, ILOCOS SUR – In a continued effort to strengthen inter-agency collaboration and promote sustainable community development, the Cooperative Development Authority (CDA) joined hands with the Department of Agriculture (DA) in the Capability Enhancement Training for Indigenous Peoples (IP) Organizations held on August 11, 2025, in Bantay, Ilocos Sur.

Representing the CDA, Cooperative Development Specialist II (CDS II) Ms. Joy P. Basingel served as one of the resource speakers, sharing her expertise on topics vital to cooperative development and sustainability. Her discussion covered:

• The CDA Legal Framework – providing an overview of the laws, mandates, and regulatory functions of the Authority.
• The CDA Foundation Statement – emphasizing the principles, values, and objectives guiding cooperative growth in the country.
• Basic Cooperative Operations and Governance – highlighting the roles of members and officers, decision-making processes, and accountability mechanisms.
• The Process of Cooperative Registration – detailing the documentary requirements, procedural steps, and compliance measures necessary for registration.

The training was attended by 30 Indigenous Peoples organizations from Ilocos Sur and Ilocos Norte, each representing communities with rich cultural heritage and unique socio-economic conditions. The primary goal of the activity was to empower participants with the knowledge, skills, and practical tools needed to effectively manage and sustain their cooperatives or associations. By doing so, these organizations can enhance livelihood opportunities, strengthen local economies, and preserve their cultural identity through collective enterprise.

Beyond the technical learning sessions, the event also provided an avenue for dialogue between the CDA, DA, and the IP organizations, fostering mutual understanding and cooperation. The exchange of experiences and ideas highlighted the potential of cooperatives as a viable and inclusive pathway to community empowerment, particularly for marginalized sectors.

The CDA expressed its deep appreciation to the DA for recognizing the agency as a trusted partner and for inviting it to contribute to this meaningful initiative. Through such collaborative undertakings, both agencies reaffirm their shared commitment to uplifting the lives of Indigenous Peoples. (Joy P. Basingel)