Published on: March 17, 2026

By Ma. Corazon B. Angoluan

The Cooperative Development Authority (CDA) successfully conducted its first-ever Mediation and Conciliation Training exclusively for transport cooperatives in Region II on March 12, 2026, via Zoom platform. The initiative forms part of the agency’s continuing efforts to strengthen Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) mechanisms at the cooperative level.

 

The four-hour training was participated by members of the Mediation and Conciliation Committee and select Board of Directors. The training delved on mediation and conciliation proceedings in the cooperative level, policy-making, and proper reporting of mediated and conciliated cases to the CDA.

 

Atty. Nita Doreen L. Maestre-Tabbu, OIC Supervising CDS and Legal Officer of the CDA Region 2, served as the resource speaker. She discussed key issues and challenges in mediation and conciliation, highlighting important provisions under Rule II of the Omnibus Rules of Procedure. Her discussion emphasized the importance of structured processes in ensuring fair and efficient dispute resolution.

 

The training opened with a message from Ms. Annalyn Catulin, Chief of the Cooperative Research, Information, and Training Section (CRITS), who underscored the importance of ADR in maintaining harmony in the cooperative. It concluded with a message from Regional Director, Atty. Jovilyn M. Gaffud-Marquez, who encouraged participants to carry forward what they have learned and use it to strengthen trust, understanding, and unity within their respective cooperatives.

 

Beyond the discussions and technical guidance, the training served as a reminder that at the heart of every cooperative are people working together despite differences. By equipping participants with the skills to listen, understand, and resolve conflicts with fairness and respect, the CDA helps nurture stronger relationships within cooperatives. (JCC/MCBA/CDA Region II)