July 15, 2025 | Kalayaan, Palawan – In a historic move that underscores the government’s unwavering commitment to inclusive development, the Cooperative Development Authority (CDA) officially registered three new cooperatives in Pag-asa Island, Kalayaan, Palawan—one of the most remote and geopolitically significant territories in the Philippines.
Despite the challenges posed by distance, limited transportation, and unpredictable weather, the CDA, through its Institutional Development Services and CDA MIMAROPA Extension Office, reached the shores of Pag-asa Island to deliver critical services to the residents of this frontier municipality. The newly registered cooperatives— Spratly’s Strong and Brave Women Consumers Cooperative (SSBWCC), Kalayaan Fishermen Cooperative (KFC) and Kalayaan Municipal Government Employees Credit Cooperative (KMGECO) —now stand as pioneering pillars of community empowerment in this remote yet strategically vital area of the West Philippine Sea. The ceremonial awarding was held with full local support, warmly hosted by Municipal Mayor Hon. Beltzasar S. Alindogan, who expressed deep gratitude to the agency. “This is not just a visit. This is a message that Kalayaan matters. The CDA made the effort to come despite our distance. That means everything to us,” the mayor said in his welcome remarks.
In a symbolic and emotionally resonant ceremony, CDA Administrator Santiago S. Lim, emphasized that the Certificate of Registration being awarded was not just a piece of paper but a symbol of unity, empowerment, and a shared vision for prosperity. “Itong sertipiko ay nagsisilbing panimula ng isang paglalakbay—hindi lamang para sa bawat miyembro, kundi para sa buong komunidad ng Kalayaan,” Asec. Lim shared. Also graced the activity was Assistant Secretary Virgilio R. Lazaga, M.D., Head of the Agriculture, Agrarian, Aquaculture, Farmers, Dairy, and Fisherfolk Cooperatives Cluster, who echoed the importance of developing local enterprise. “Kalayaan is rich in natural resources. Through cooperatives, your community can tap into agriculture, fisheries, and small business development. We encourage you to pursue enterprise that uplifts lives and sustains the island,” he said. Deputy Administrator for Institutional Development Services Ray R. Elevazo likewise affirmed the agency’s commitment to bringing government programs closer to Filipinos, especially those in geographically isolated and disadvantaged areas (GIDAs). Meanwhile, CDA MIMAROPA Regional Director Alberto A. Sabarias gave assurance that the regional office will provide continuous technical guidance and monitoring to the three new cooperatives. “This is just the beginning. We are with you every step of the way. We want to see these cooperatives grow and become models of self-reliance,” RD Sabarias shared.
Completing the team from CDA MIMAROPA were Atty. Richard E. Ilagan, Acting Supervising CDS and Legal Officer; Marian A. Concepcion, Acting Senior CDS and Palawan Program Coordinator; and Jefhtee R. Panganiban, Senior CDS from the Cooperative Project Development and Assistance Section (CPDAS). Their presence further cemented the CDA’s all-around support—from legal services and program coordination to development assistance. The creation and registration of these three cooperatives signify more than administrative progress—they reflect a powerful story of empowerment, resilience, and national unity. Amid the waves of the West Philippine Sea, Cooperativism has reached the edge of the archipelago, proving once again that no community is too remote for meaningful development. As these cooperatives begin their journey, they carry with them the hopes of a small but proud community—and the full support of a nation determined to leave no one behind.
