October 20, 2025- In celebration of Cooperative Month 2025, cooperatives in Bacarra, Ilocos Norte joined forces for a meaningful environmental and community activity. A clean-up drive and fish stocking in the Bislak River which aimed to promote environmental protection, enhance the river’s fish population, and highlight the spirit of cooperation under this year’s theme: “Cooperatives: United in Purpose and Action, Sharing Prosperity to Build a Better World.”

The activity was spearheaded by the Provincial Government of Ilocos Norte, in partnership with the Cooperative Development Authority (CDA), the Local Government Unit (LGU) of Bacarra, and the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR).

Cooperative officers & members, representatives from the Cooperative Development Authority, Provincial Government of Ilocos Norte, Municipal Government of Bacarra, Ilocos Norte and the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources and some volunteers from the community participated in the river clean-up, collecting waste and debris to help restore the natural ecosystem of the Bislak River. Following the clean-up, carp and tilapia fingerlings were released into the river to help boost the fish population.

In a show of community solidarity, the Bacarra Multipurpose Cooperative distributed snacks to all who participated in the activity and also to the tricycle drivers in the town after the event, extending the spirit of sharing and cooperation beyond the environmental activity.

Indeed, the activity fosters the importance of unity in promoting sustainable and inclusive development. The event not only strengthened camaraderie among cooperative members but also reaffirmed their shared commitment to protecting the environment and uplifting local communities. (R.R.Medina, CDS II)