In line with its mission to enhance conflict resolution capabilities within the cooperative sector, the Regional Cooperative Development Council (RCDC) 10, in partnership with the Cooperative Development Authority (CDA) Region 10 and the Regional Conciliation and Mediation Board (RCMB) 10, successfully conducted a three-day Conflict Management Training for Cooperative Mediation and Conciliation Practitioners last November 25-27, 2024, at Grand Caprice, Lim Ketkai Center, Cagayan de Oro City. The activity was attended by forty-six (46) participants, comprising members of the Mediation- Conciliation (Med-Con) Committees, cooperative officers, and Cooperative Development Officers from various cooperatives in Region 10.
The training featured lectures and workshops led by esteemed experts in conflict management, such as CDA 10 Resource Persons, Ms. Mary Grace D. Vapor for Fundamentals and Stages of Mediation, Atty. Ansarah Julynne M. Yamba for the Legal Background and Analysis of Conflict, and Regional Director of RCMB 10, Director Aerrine Marie R. Reyes for the Skills, Attributes, and Techniques on Mediation-Conciliation. Their comprehensive sessions covered the fundamentals of mediation, effective conciliation strategies, and real-world applications of conflict resolution techniques. The resource persons’ expertise provided participants with critical insights and practical tools for managing disputes within their cooperatives.
One of the program’s highlights was the simulation exercise on the third day, where ten (10) pairs from the participants engaged in practical scenarios designed to test their mediation and conciliation skills. These exercises allowed participants to apply theoretical knowledge in a controlled environment, showcasing their ability to manage real-life intracooperative disputes effectively.
Participants who successfully passed both the Post Test and Simulation Exercise became eligible for accreditation as Conciliators-Mediators, in line with CDA Memorandum Circular No. 2023-08, which mandates that applicants for accreditation as Conciliators-Mediators undergo a pre-accreditation training program. Successful passers of this course will be eligible for official accreditation, reinforcing their capability to mediate and resolve disputes within their cooperatives. Notably, this program is provided by the Authority but does not preclude participants from attending similar training offered by other providers, ensuring a broad and inclusive approach to skill development.
As the CDA continues to provide similar training opportunities, it remains steadfast to strengthening the cooperative movement in Region 10. Cooperatives are encouraged to sustain their engagement with these initiatives, ensuring their operations remain smooth, transparent, and united.
