The Cooperative Development Authority (CDA) Region IV-B Extension Office, in partnership with the City Cooperative Development Office of Puerto Princesa City, successfully conducted a Conflict Management Training for Cooperative Mediation Practitioners from October 27-29, 2025, at the Sangguniang Panglunsod Lobby, Puerto Princesa City, Palawan.
The event brought together 74 cooperative members from various Barangays in Puerto Princesa City and Aborlan. Participants actively engaged in insightful discussions and practical exercises aimed at strengthening their conflict resolution competencies.
This comprehensive training aimed to equip cooperative Board members, Mediation and Conciliation Committee members, and other key officers with the necessary knowledge and skills to integrate conflict management and mediation practices into their organizations. It served as a foundation for enhancing their understanding and abilities in dispute resolution within cooperatives.
The program formally opened with welcoming remarks from Dr. Romeo Valdes, RCDC Chairperson, who underscored the vital role of cooperatives in community development. He urged attendees to maximize their participation for a more meaningful learning experience.
Ms. Romalisa Patacsil, designated CCDO Officer, outlining the training objectives and emphasizing the importance of collaboration among cooperative members in fostering effective conflict management.
The technical sessions began with Atty. Ilagan’s in-depth presentation on the conciliation-mediation process, including relevant laws, policies, and CDA guidelines. He emphasized the value of resolving internal disputes through conciliation-mediation to maintain unity within cooperatives. He also introduced the accreditation process for Conciliators-Mediators under CDA Memorandum Circular No. 2023-08, encouraging participants to become part of CDA’s pool of accredited practitioners.
This was followed by a session on the Fundamentals and Ethics of Mediation by Ms. Hazel Rozette S. Quiray, CDS II. Her discussion focused on the principles, goals, and benefits of mediation and conciliation. She also guided participants on drafting conciliation agreements and introduced helpful techniques such as reframing and summarizing.
Atty. Ilagan resumed with a session on the Stages of Mediation, where he detailed the two core phases—problem-definition and problem-solving. He walked participants through the mediation process, from setting the agenda and exploring interests to formulating effective settlement agreements.
To reinforce the concepts, participants were divided into five groups for simulation and skills assessment. Each group acted out a case scenario involving cooperative-related conflicts, playing the roles of complainant, respondent, and mediator. Their performances were critiqued by Atty. Ilagan and Ms. Quiray, who provided constructive feedback to further hone their mediation techniques.
After the simulation exercises, participants shared their insights and reflections on conflict management. Certificates of completion were awarded to all attendees, with special recognition given to those who excelled in the simulations.
Mr. Alberto Sabarias, CDA Regional Director, also provided an inspirational message, highlighting the relevance of conflict management to the overall success of cooperatives.
The event concluded with closing remarks from Dr. Valdez, who commended the participants for their active involvement.
The CDA Legal team is committed to continuing this initiative throughout the remaining cities and provinces of MIMAROPA, further strengthening cooperative governance through effective conflict resolution training.
