The Cooperative Development Authority Region 10 successfully conducted the Forum on Strengthening and Revitalizing Micro and Small Cooperatives Through Merger and Consolidation on October 24, 2023, and November 10, 2023, at Mambajao, Camiguin, and Magsaysay, Misamis Oriental, respectively. This activity primarily aims to raise awareness of the advantages of these initiatives and encourage micro and small cooperatives to merge or consolidate as a strategic option for strengthening capital structure, operational efficiency, and market growth expansion. To ensure the success of these programs, the Cooperative Development Authority will also give monetary incentives to the newly merged or consolidated cooperatives and will seek a partner cooperative that can also provide subsidy assistance as well as technical assistance. 

The first leg of the forum was conducted at Camiguin Convention Center, Mambajao, Camiguin, on October 24, 2023. This event was attended by the Chairperson of the Committee on Cooperatives of the Province of Camiguin, Hon. Stanley K. Planco, the Provincial Cooperative Focal Person, Ms. Marietta Warquez, and the various micro and small cooperatives of the province of Camiguin. Hon. Planco opened the program and delivered an Inspirational Message to the attendees by encouraging active participation in every affair dedicated to the cooperatives’ betterment and welfare. The program continued with an Orientation of the CDA Functions, Programs, and Services by the esteemed Assistant Regional Director of CDA Region 10, Ms. Marissa B. Catubig. Thereafter, a thorough discussion on the legal basis and procedure of Merger and Consolidation was given by the CDA Region 10 Legal Officer, Atty. Ansarah Julynne R. Maongco, which was followed by an Open Forum facilitated by the Cooperative Development Specialist assigned in the Camiguin Province, Mr. Jose Renante Deloso. 

On November 10, 2023, the second batch of the forum was conducted in Magsaysay, Misamis Oriental. No less than the Cooperative Development Authority (CDA) Board Member III and Acting Administrator, Assistant Secretary Myrla B. Paradillo graced the forum and highlighted the programs of the Cooperative Development Authority. The event was also attended by the Local Chief Executive of Magsaysay Hon. Charlie B. Buhisan who gave his empowering message to the attendees and Hon. Brayn L. Bacoy, SB Chairperson of the Committee on Cooperatives, who was also in support of the program. Thereafter, Mr. Edwin B. Pelosas, Supervision and Examination Section Head of CDA 10, proceeded to discuss the process of Merger and Consolidation. In light of such an initiative, SB Bacoy designated a focal person to help facilitate the prospective merger or consolidation of numerous cooperatives of Magsaysay before the year ends. 

This event proved to be a resounding success for the micro and small cooperatives in attendance, who are optimistic about the prospect of merger and consolidation and further engaging in a more promising and better future for their cooperatives.