CDA Region IV-B EO

Building Stronger Cooperatives: A Four-Day Online Journey in Fundamentals, Governance, and Management

The recently concluded Online Required Training for Micro and Small Cooperatives in the MIMAROPA Region marked a significant milestone in strengthening cooperative leadership and institutional capacity across the region. The training officially commenced on December 16 and was conducted over a four-day period, carefully structured to provide both foundational knowledge and practical governance competencies essential to cooperative success.

The first two days of the program focused on the Fundamentals of Cooperatives, where participants were guided through the core principles, values, and legal foundations of the cooperative movement. Discussions emphasized the importance of member ownership, democratic control, and economic participation, enabling officers and members alike to deepen their understanding of the cooperative identity. Through interactive lectures and sharing of experiences, participants gained clearer insights into their roles and responsibilities within their respective cooperatives.

The final two days were dedicated to Cooperative Governance and Management, a crucial component aimed at enhancing leadership effectiveness and organizational sustainability. Sessions highlighted good governance practices, the roles of the Board of Directors and officers, strategic planning, financial oversight, and accountability mechanisms. Practical examples and situational discussions allowed participants to relate governance concepts to real challenges faced by micro and small cooperatives in their communities.

The training was attended by 23 cooperatives, represented by a total of 123 cooperative officers, demonstrating strong participation and commitment from the sector. Despite being conducted online, the training maintained a high level of engagement, with participants actively contributing to discussions, asking insightful questions, and sharing best practices from their own cooperative experiences.

Overall, the successful completion of this required training underscores the continued commitment of cooperatives in the MIMAROPA Region to good governance, sound management, and adherence to cooperative principles. More importantly, it equipped participants with the knowledge and confidence needed to lead their cooperatives more effectively, ensuring that they remain responsive, resilient, and sustainable in the face of evolving economic and organizational challenges.