In celebration of the Cooperative Month 2024 with the theme, “Cooperatives: Stronger Together Today for a Brighter Tomorrow,” the Regional Cooperative Development Council (RCDC) Region 10 and Cooperative Development Authority 10 celebrated its Opening Salvo on October 6, 2024, at the Misamis Oriental Provincial Capitol Grounds in Cagayan de Oro City, gathering two hundred fifty-five (255) cooperatives from the entire region.
The event commenced with a Holy Mass, followed by a parade of cooperative members, showcasing their pride and unity. Attendees also had the opportunity to visit booths and shop with cooperative products, supporting local businesses and highlighting the strength of cooperative enterprises in the region.
The Program Proper started at 9:30 AM with the preliminaries. Dr. Gervacio I. Piator, CPA, Chairperson of RCDC-10, took the stage to give an enthusiastic acknowledgement of all the cooperative participants who had come together for this momentous celebration.
Atty. Michele Anayron, Chairperson of the Committee on Cooperatives in Misamis Oriental, delivered his solidarity message and shared words of encouragement, highlighting the essential role that cooperatives play in local development and the lives of their members. Hon. Kenneth John Sacala, Chairperson of the Committee on Cooperatives in Cagayan de Oro City also extended his congratulatory message and was honored to witness how cooperatives year after year, continued to be at the forefront in the community development, creating meaningful impact not just in the lives of its cooperative members but in a wider community.
Introduced by Dir. Aminoden A. Elias, Regional Director of CDA-10, the much-anticipated Keynote Address was delivered by ASEC. Myrla B. Paradillo, Board Member III of the Cooperative Development Authority (CDA). In her speech, she discussed the future of the cooperative movement, stressing the importance of embracing innovation, ensuring inclusivity, and fostering stronger partnerships. She encouraged all cooperative members to continue working together for sustainable growth and a brighter future for all.
The event also featured a heartfelt song presentation by the CLIMBS Chorale, adding a melodic touch to the gathering as well as a showcase and presentation by several Drum and Bugle from Cagayan de Oro schools sponsored by big cooperatives of the region . In the spirit of fun and camaraderie, participants enjoyed parlor games that engaged all cooperatives in a friendly competition. The program continued with the Presentation of Mr. & Ms. Coop 2024 Candidates, a pageant that celebrates the wit, charm, and cooperative values of its participants. Winners of special awards for the opening salvo were also announced, such as Biggest Number of Delegates- FICCO, Best in Uniform-CLIMBS, Most Jolly- CPEC and the Farthest Delegates- KVSCC from Kapatagan, Lanao del Norte.
The event concluded with Closing Remarks from Mr. Edgardo A. Micayabas, Chairperson of the Cooperative Development Council of Cagayan de Oro City and CEO of First Community Credit Cooperative (FICCO).
With such an inspiring start to the 2024 Cooperative Month, everyone looks forward to more exciting events and activities that will strengthen the cooperative movement of Region 10, as every cooperative member continues to work towards a brighter tomorrow!
