The Cooperative Development Authority (CDA) – MIMAROPA Extension Office, through its Supervision and Examination Section (SES), successfully conducted an Orientation on CDA Memorandum Circular (MC) No. 2026-02, “Guidelines on Risk-Based Supervision and Examination of Cooperatives Engaged in Lending,” on August 19, 2026, via Zoom.

The orientation was organized to provide Cooperatives Engaged in Lending (CELs) across the MIMAROPA Region with a clearer and more practical understanding of the newly issued Guidelines. It also aimed to help cooperatives prepare for its implementation and appreciate the importance of strengthening risk management, governance, internal controls, and lending operations.

Serving as the Resource Speaker was Mr. Melvin A. Cabanes of the Supervision and Examination Section, who led the participants through a comprehensive discussion of the risk-based supervision and examination framework. His presentation covered key areas such as risk management, examination processes, risk assessment, monitoring, and the responsibilities of Cooperatives Engaged in Lending under MC No. 2026-02.

The activity drew the participation of more than 240 representatives from cooperatives across the MIMAROPA Region, demonstrating the strong interest of CELs in understanding the new Guidelines and preparing their respective organizations for its effective implementation.

The program was also graced by Regional Director Alberto A. Sabarias, who delivered the Opening Message. He emphasized the importance of adopting sound risk management practices and strengthening governance and internal controls to ensure the safety, stability, and sustainability of cooperative lending operations.

The CDA MIMAROPA Extension Office likewise extends its appreciation to Ms. Helen, who provided valuable assistance in facilitating and managing the Zoom session and delivered the Closing Message. Her support contributed to the smooth and successful conduct of the activity.

The CDA MIMAROPA also expresses its heartfelt appreciation to all the participating cooperatives for their active participation, insightful questions, and commitment to continuous learning and organizational improvement. Their engagement reflects the cooperative sector’s willingness to adapt to evolving regulatory standards and strengthen their systems and practices.

The successful conduct of the orientation marks another important step in the CDA MIMAROPA Extension Office’s continuing efforts to promote stronger governance, effective internal controls, sound risk management, financial stability, and sustainable lending operations among Cooperatives Engaged in Lending.

As cooperatives move toward the implementation of the risk-based supervision and examination framework, the message remains clear:

“Risk is not something to fear, but something to understand and manage.”

Through continued collaboration, capacity-building, and responsible governance, the CDA MIMAROPA Extension Office and the cooperative sector remain committed to building stronger, more resilient, and better-managed cooperatives throughout MIMAROPA.

CDA MIMAROPA — Empowering Cooperatives, Strengthening Communities.