The Province of La Union, long recognized for its vibrant communities and strong cooperative movement, proudly hosted the 2025 Regional Cooperative Month Celebration—a gathering of over 530 cooperative officers and members from across Region I. Held on October 16–17, 2025, at the Speaker Pro-Tempore Francisco I. Ortega Convention Center in Sevilla, San Fernando City, the event highlighted the transformative power of cooperatives in fostering inclusive growth and community resilience.
Guided by the theme “Cooperatives: United in Purpose and Action, Sharing Prosperity to Build a Better World,” the celebration served as a testament to the transformative power of cooperatives in promoting unity, resilience, and shared prosperity.
A Grand Opening of Collaboration and Commitment
The event opened with the presence of distinguished leaders and stakeholders, including representatives of Hon. Gov. Mario Eduardo C. Ortega, led by Chief of Staff Mr. Denver Badua, and SPM Chairperson on Cooperatives Hon. Jefferson Fernando. Key officials from the Cooperative Development Authority (CDA) Region I, headed by Atty. Frederick Joe N. Robles, along with cooperative development officers, partner agencies, local government units (LGUs), and the LCDOP Region I led by RCDC Chairperson and LCDOP President Ellsworth G. Gonzales, also graced the occasion. Their participation underscored the importance of multi-sector collaboration in strengthening the cooperative movement.
Panangidayew iti Rang-ay 2025: Honoring Excellence
One of the most anticipated highlights was the Panangidayew iti Rang-ay 2025, the region’s prestigious awards ceremony recognizing outstanding cooperatives, partner agencies, cooperative leaders, and LGUs. More than an awarding event, Panangidayew served as a platform of inspiration—encouraging others to pursue innovation, good governance, and meaningful community impact.
Governor’s Night: Fellowship and Cultural Pride
The festivities continued with the Governor’s Night, generously hosted by Hon. Governor Mario Eduardo C. Ortega. This social gathering fostered camaraderie among cooperative leaders, local officials, and stakeholders. Cultural performances and heartfelt messages of support filled the evening, celebrating not only achievements but the enduring values of solidarity and service within the cooperative sector.
Day Two: Learning, Leadership, and Inspiration
The second day featured learning sessions and knowledge-sharing forums led by seasoned speakers and experts in cooperative development, governance, and innovation. With over 530 participants, it became a powerful arena for capacity-building, networking, and strategic dialogue.
A major highlight was the keynote message of Undersecretary Alexander Raquepo, who served as Guest of Honor and Keynote Speaker. In his address, he emphasized the indispensable role of cooperatives in nation-building—calling for unity, innovation, and purpose-driven leadership to scale greater heights.
A Celebration That Sets a Benchmark
As the 2025 Regional Cooperative Month celebration concluded, the spirit of unity and shared prosperity resonated throughout the region. La Union’s exceptional hosting set a new benchmark—reminding everyone that cooperatives are more than economic institutions; they are engines of hope, inclusion, and transformative change.
Prepared by:
Constancia A. De Guzman
Marwin C. Peralta
Christine Joy C. Mendoza
