The training sessions provided participants with the foundational knowledge needed to navigate the cooperative environment, improving their ability to engage in cooperative businesses. In total, 82 Senior Citizens and 7 PWDs actively participated in these training sessions, demonstrating strong engagement with the cooperative movement.

2. Provision of Enhancement Training: In line with its objective to continually enhance the capabilities of Senior Citizens and PWDs, the CDA conducted 10 enhancement training sessions throughout the year. These included:

• • Financial Management
  • Business Continuity Management
  • Financial Literacy
  • MedCon Training for Micro and Small Cooperatives

These sessions aimed to provide deeper insights into financial literacy and management, ensuring that the participants could make informed decisions within their cooperatives and personal finances. A total of 83 Senior Citizens and 7 PWDs benefitted from these training sessions, further empowering them with the skills necessary for active participation in cooperatives and financial decision-making.

3. Provision of Pre-Registration Seminar (PRS): The CDA also conducted 1 batch of PRS for Senior Citizens and 2 additional batches for other groups, which served as an introductory step for those interested in establishing or joining cooperatives. The seminars provided essential information on cooperative registration processes, helping to pave the way for potential cooperative founders. 15 Senior Citizen Proponents and 7 PWD Proponents attended these PRS sessions, gaining the necessary knowledge to navigate cooperative registration.

4. Advocacy Program for PWDs & Elderly: Advocacy initiatives formed a central part of the CDA’s mission to raise awareness and promote the well-being of Senior Citizens and PWDs. In 2024, a significant event was organized during the Cooperative Month Celebration in Calapan City, where 25 Senior Citizens were offered complimentary haircuts as part of a holistic wellness initiative. This was a symbolic gesture aimed at highlighting the importance of personal care and social integration for elderly members.

Additionally, 56 Senior Citizens and 12 PWDs attended the 2nd Regional Cooperative Congress in Puerto Princesa City, providing them with a platform for networking and learning about the broader cooperative movement. The congress served as a valuable opportunity for participants to engage with cooperative leaders and gain insights into the latest trends and practices in the cooperative sector.

The CDA also conducted Barangay orientation sessions that saw 31 Senior Citizens serving as Barangay Officials from different provinces in MIMAROPA participating in cooperative education. Furthermore, 6 Senior Citizens Cooperative Development Officers attended a Training of Trainers (TOT) session to enhance their skills and fulfill compliance with RA 11535, strengthening the region’s cooperative leadership.

The Cooperative Development Authority’s 2024 Program for Senior Citizens and PWDs in the MIMAROPA Region was a resounding success, with a clear focus on empowerment, education, and inclusion. The series of trainings, seminars, and advocacy events not only equipped participants with vital cooperative knowledge but also fostered a sense of community and personal well-being among these groups. Moving forward, the CDA remains committed to ensuring that Senior Citizens and PWDs continue to have the opportunity to actively participate in and benefit from cooperative activities, thus contributing to a more inclusive society.

The successful implementation of these programs is attributed to the hard work and dedication of the CDA’s personnel, including technical trainers, field officers, and regional leaders, who continue to drive efforts aimed at building stronger, more resilient communities through cooperatives.