CDA Region IV-B EO

Celebrating Cooperative Growth in Marinduque: 10 New Co-ops, 150 Trained Leaders, and a Stronger Coconut Sector

The cooperative spirit was alive and thriving in Boac, Marinduque, as the Cooperative Development Authority (CDA) MIMAROPA successfully held the Coconut Farmers and Industry Development Plan (CFIDP) Year 4 Activity from July 7 to 12, 2025 at Balar Hotel and Spa, Brgy. Balarin.

This week-long event brought together coconut farmers’ associations and cooperative leaders from all over the island province, blending technical learning, hands-on support, and celebration in one unified experience.

A Tribute to International Cooperative Day

Kicking off the program on a high note, the celebration of International Cooperative Day was extended into the first part of the opening program. This symbolic gesture honored the unwavering support and unity of cooperatives in Marinduque, who have continuously exemplified what it means to work together for shared progress.

“You are not just forming cooperatives; you are building institutions that will serve your families and communities for generations to come,” said CDA MIMAROPA Regional Director Alberto A. Sabarias during his opening remarks. His message set the tone for a transformative and hopeful week.

Registration Milestone: 10 New Cooperatives Formed

One of the most significant achievements of the activity was the successful registration of 10 new coconut farmers’ cooperatives. Thanks to the focused conduct of the Pre-Registration Seminar (PRS) led by Mr. Cristian B. De Ade and Mr. Mark M. Manrique, unregistered associations received step-by-step guidance on legal formation and documentary compliance.

With on-site assistance from Mr. Reyzard D. Oliveros and registration oversight from Ms. Helen S. Servañez, these groups are now officially registered and better equipped to access CFIDP support and other government programs.

150 Trained Individuals from 30 Cooperatives

The activity also featured three days of intensive training, benefiting 150 individual participants from 30 registered cooperatives.

  • On July 9–10, participants learned the ins and outs of Parliamentary Procedure and Minutes Writing, led by Mr. Jefhtee R. Panganiban with assistance from Ms. Princess Leoren M. Barreras.
  • From July 10–11, Ms. Eva Loraine R. Cataje spearheaded the Basic Accounting for Non-Accountants training, which helped cooperative treasurers, bookkeepers, and officers understand financial systems, internal controls, and the Revised Standard Chart of Accounts (RSCA).

Hands-on simulations, role-plays, and real-world examples made the learning process practical and highly relevant to the daily operations of cooperatives.

✅ Strong Coordination, Stronger Impact

Behind the scenes, the success of the activity was made possible by the cohesive teamwork of the CDA MIMAROPA staff, who arrived early to coordinate with local stakeholders and ensure a seamless program:

  • Jefhtee R. Panganiban – Senior CDS, CPDAS
  • Eva Loraine R. Cataje – Senior CDS, CRITS
  • Helen S. Servañez – Senior CDS, Registration
  • Cristian B. De Ade – CDS II
  • Mark M. Manrique – CDS II, CPDAS
  • Reyzard D. Oliveros – CDS II
  • Princess Leoren M. Barreras – CDS II, Marinduque

Their combined efforts made the activity not just informative—but inspiring and empowering.

A Week of Learning, Celebration, and Community

On the final day, July 12, the CDA team conducted an evaluation, assessment, and closing program. Participants shared heartfelt reflections, and certificates were awarded to all completers of the training.

The CFIDP activity in Marinduque showed what’s possible when technical guidance, community participation, and strong partnerships come together. With 10 new cooperatives formed and 150 cooperative officers trained, the event leaves behind more than just memories—it leaves behind a stronger, more united cooperative movement in the heart of MIMAROPA.