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Formalization of Legal Support Partnership: CDA MIMAROPA and IBP Oriental Mindoro Chapter Execute Memorandum of Agreement in Celebration of the International Day of Cooperatives

Posted on July 4, 2025

On July 3, 2025, the Cooperative Development Authority (CDA) MIMAROPA Regional Office and the Integrated Bar of the Philippines (IBP) – Oriental Mindoro Chapter formalized an institutional partnership through the execution of a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) at Café Meow, Calapan City, Oriental Mindoro. The activity was conducted in conjunction with the celebration of the “International Day of Cooperatives”, underscoring the global commitment to cooperative development and solidarity.

This event also formed part of the CDA Laws Awareness Program (CLAP), a flagship initiative designed to enhance the legal literacy and compliance capabilities of cooperatives within the region.

The program officially commenced at 4:00 PM with opening preliminaries, followed by a technical presentation by Atty. Richard E. Ilagan, Legal Officer of CDA MIMAROPA, on the rationale and objectives of CLAP. The presentation contextualized the partnership’s alignment with the CDA’s mandate to promote cooperative development through capacity building and legal support mechanisms.

At 4:20 PM, messages of commitment were delivered by Mr. Alberto A. Sabarias, Regional Director of CDA MIMAROPA, and Atty. Charlotte F. Aguba-Goco, President of IBP Oriental Mindoro Chapter. Both speakers emphasized the strategic importance of the partnership in institutionalizing legal assistance for cooperatives, thereby addressing issues related to governance, compliance, and access to justice—core principles being celebrated globally during the International Day of Cooperatives.

The principal component of the event took place from 4:30 PM to 5:00 PM, with the formal MOA signing. The agreement stipulates the following key provisions:

  • Legal Orientation and Capacity Building: CDA shall provide training and technical orientation to IBP lawyers on cooperative laws, rules, and regulations.
  • Referral System: CDA shall endorse cooperative clients requiring legal assistance to the IBP Oriental Mindoro Chapter.
  • Legal Services Provision: IBP Oriental Mindoro Chapter shall mobilize its members to render pro bono legal services to cooperatives, ensuring compliance with professional ethical standards.
  • Documentation and Reporting: IBP shall document community service hours rendered by its members, in line with IBP lifetime membership requirements.
  • Confidentiality and Quality Assurance: Both parties commit to upholding confidentiality and maintaining the highest standards of legal service delivery.
  • Joint Working Group: A working group shall be established to coordinate implementation, monitor progress, and resolve operational concerns.

The MOA shall remain effective for a period of three (3) years, with provisions for renewal or modification subject to mutual agreement.

The event was also attended by key officers of the IBP Oriental Mindoro Chapter, including Atty. Francheska Lauren L. Feraren, Treasurer, and Atty. Mark Jeff V. Cleofe, Public Relations Officer, signifying broad organizational support for the partnership.

This MOA, signed in celebration of the International Day of Cooperatives, signifies a proactive approach in strengthening institutional linkages between the legal and cooperative sectors, facilitating an enabling environment for cooperative growth, and ensuring equitable access to legal services for cooperative stakeholders within Oriental Mindoro.