The session began with the Preliminaries, where participants were welcomed and oriented on the flow of the program. The CDA MIMAROPA team ensured that all attendees were properly acknowledged and briefed on technical guidelines for the breakout sessions.

 

This was followed by an Inspirational Message from Regional Director Alberto “Abet” Sabarias, who emphasized the CDA’s ongoing commitment to supporting cooperatives by bringing essential services closer to them—now made even more accessible through digital platforms like the eCOOPCLIP. His message focused on cooperation, innovation, and empowerment as the pillars of a thriving cooperative movement.

Next was a Briefer on eCOOPCLIP delivered by Ms. Helen A. Servañez, Sr. CDS and Head of the Registration Section. She explained the concept and purpose of the program: to provide a virtual space where cooperatives can directly consult with CDA technical personnel on various operational and compliance concerns. She also shared updates on registration and amendments, and encouraged active participation in the breakout sessions.

The session continued with messages from the respective section heads of CDA MIMAROPA:

Ms. Marian A. Concepcion, Acting Sr. CDS and head of the Credit Surety Fund (CSF) program outlined how cooperatives can access support for credit enhancement, including eligibility and application processes.

• Ms. Eva Loraine R. Cataje, Sr. CDS and Head of the Cooperative Research, Information and Training Section (CRITS) shared their role in training, capacity building, and information dissemination, underscoring how CRITS supports cooperatives through research and education.

• Ms. Raquel C. Castañeda, Sr. CDS and Head of the Supervision and Examination Section (SES) discussed the importance of proper supervision and compliance, and how SES works closely with cooperatives to ensure sound operational practices.

• Atty. Richard E. Ilagan, Acting Supervising CDS, representing the Legal Section, provided guidance on legal matters frequently encountered by cooperatives and reiterated CDA’s role in providing legal support and interpretation of cooperative laws.

• The Cooperative Project Development and Assistance Section (CPDAS) was also present with their CDS II, Mr. Mark M. Manrique to attend the concerns of the participants and technical assistance offered to cooperatives in project development, livelihood initiatives, and enterprise growth.

Participants were then assigned to Breakout Rooms, where they had the opportunity to engage in focused discussions with each section. This segment allowed for direct consultation on legal queries, registration issues, supervision processes, training needs, project assistance, and CSF concerns. CDA staff facilitated the sessions, addressing specific questions and offering tailored advice to each cooperative.

The program concluded with a Closing Message from Atty. Richard E. Ilagan, who emphasized the importance of partnership and continuous learning. He encouraged cooperatives to remain proactive and collaborative in addressing challenges and sustaining their growth.

The event successfully delivered real-time support to cooperatives and reinforced the CDA MIMAROPA’s dedication to service excellence through innovation and accessibility.