The second leg of the Coconut Farmers Industry Development Program (CFIDP) Year 3 unfolded from August 5 to August 9, 2024, at Apartelle de Francesca, Puerto Galera, Oriental Mindoro. This significant event brought together a diverse group of stakeholders from the coconut farming community, aiming to bolster their capabilities and resilience in managing and growing their cooperatives.
The program began with a crucial Pre-Registration Seminar on August 5. Led by Mr. Adrian Sinocruz, a Cooperative Development Specialist II, this session was instrumental in setting the stage for the entire week. Mr. Sinocruz’s thorough guidance ensured that the 13 Coconut Farmers Organizations (CFOs) were well-acquainted with the CFIDP Year 3 objectives and requirements. His insights into the registration process and program expectations helped streamline the preparation for the upcoming sessions.
As the event progressed to the second day up to the third day, August 6-7, the focus shifted to Business Continuity Management (BCM) Training. Ms. Eva Loraine R. Cataje, Senior CDS from the Cooperative Research, Information, and Training Section, spearheaded this critical session. Her expertise in BCM provided the 31 participating cooperatives with valuable knowledge on how to maintain operational continuity despite potential disruptions. Through a detailed workshop, Ms. Cataje facilitated hands-on exercises that allowed participants to apply BCM principles directly to their cooperative contexts. This practical approach ensured that the cooperatives could implement effective strategies to safeguard their operations and adapt to unforeseen challenges.
The event took on a particularly inspiring tone on August 6 with the visit of Dr. Virgilio Lazaga, Assistant Secretary of the Cooperative Development Authority, Board Member III, and Head of the Agri-Coop Cluster. Dr. Lazaga’s address was a highlight, infusing the attendees with a renewed sense of purpose and resilience. His words of encouragement underscored the importance of perseverance and patience. Dr. Lazaga’s message was clear: the obstacles faced by cooperatives are not mere hindrances but are integral to the journey towards success. His motivational speech resonated deeply with the participants, reinforcing their commitment to overcoming challenges and striving for excellence.
The final two days of the event, August 8-9, 2024, were dedicated to strategic planning and workshop sessions. These sessions were conducted by Mr. Jefhtee R. Panganiban, Senior CDS of the Cooperative Project Development and Assistance Section. Mr. Panganiban led the participants through an intensive strategic planning process, guiding them in setting realistic goals and developing actionable plans for their cooperatives. The workshops provided participants with practical tools and methodologies for effective planning, enabling them to align their strategies with their long-term objectives and operational realities.
The CFIDP Year 3 implementation in Oriental Mindoro proved to be a transformative experience for the participating cooperatives. The knowledge and skills acquired during the seminar, training, and workshops are set to make a profound impact on their operations. From understanding the nuances of business continuity to strategic planning and receiving motivational insights, the participants are now better prepared to address their challenges and capitalize on opportunities. The collective learning from this event will undoubtedly enhance their ability to support and uplift their members, driving forward sustainable growth and success within their cooperatives.
