So, on July 1, 2024, the folks over at the Cooperative Development Authority (CDA) in the MIMAROPA region threw a pretty awesome early celebration for the International Day of Cooperatives. The theme “Cooperatives build a better future for all”. They held the whole shebang on Zoom (to reach all the island provinces), and it turned out to be a dynamic event.
The main event of the day was this Amnesty Orientation Program for Non-Compliant and Dissolved Cooperatives. The staff at the Cooperatives Research, Information, and Training Section of CDA MIMAROPA gave all out to make sure it was a success. Leading the charge was Atty. Richard E. Ilagan, who’s a Legal Officer at CDA MIMAROPA and also the Acting Supervising Cooperative Development Specialist. With his expertise, he dove into topics like legal compliance and the rules that govern cooperatives.
The whole program kicked off with an inspiring welcome address by Acting Regional Director Alberto A. Sabarias. He really set the tone for the day, talking about how cooperatives play a crucial role in boosting the economy, promoting fairness, and supporting sustainable development in MIMAROPA. People from all walks of cooperative life got involved in workshops and presentations that covered important stuff like cooperative governance, following the rules, and what happens when a cooperative dissolves.
The CDA specialists also hosted some interactive sessions that dived into practical strategies for getting non-compliant cooperatives back on track and supporting those in danger of dissolving. Attendees got some valuable insights into how to navigate the legal requirements laid out in the Cooperative Development Authority Memorandum Circular 2024-09 series of 2024.
The event wrapped up with a commitment ceremony where representatives from different cooperatives pledged to keep upholding cooperative values, following the rules, and using the cooperative business model to empower marginalized groups.
As the day came to a close, there was a sense of optimism in the air. The 2024 International Day of Cooperatives wasn’t just about celebrating past successes, but also about rallying everyone to work together for a future where cooperatives continue to be a driving force for inclusive development and economic empowerment in MIMAROPA.
And in the wise words of Ms. Eva Loraine R. Cataje, the Senior CDS of CRITS, in her closing speech, “Today, we recommit ourselves to cooperatives as tools for progress and fairness. Let’s use our collective strengths to build a better tomorrow for everyone.”
With renewed energy and a shared determination, the day ended on a high note. Everyone left with a renewed belief in the power of cooperation to create a better world for all.
