Day 1: May 27, 2024 – The Pre-Registration Seminar
The conference hall buzzed with anticipation as the Coconut Farmers Association members, eager to transform their group into a cooperative, gathered for the Pre-Registration Seminar. Leading the seminar were three distinguished Cooperatives Development Specialists II: Cristian De Ade, Fatima Casaul, and Mark Manrique. Their expertise promised guidance through the intricacies of cooperative formation. Overseeing the proceedings was Ms. Roxanne Gayzze Santiago, also a CDS II, with Atty. Richard Ilagan, the Acting Supervising CDS, providing leadership.
The speakers delved into the nuances of cooperative establishment, offering insights garnered from years of experience. Fatima Casaul elucidated the legal framework, Mark Manrique navigated through administrative requirements, while Cristian De Ade expounded on the operational aspects. Together, they painted a comprehensive picture, igniting a spark of enthusiasm among the attendees.
Day 2: May 28, 2024 – Engaging the Coconut Farmers Cooperatives of Oriental Mindoro
On the second day, the focus shifted to the Coconut Farmers Cooperatives of Oriental Mindoro. Mr. Jefhtee Panganiban, a Senior Cooperatives Development Specialist, kicked off the session with an overview of the CFIDP Implementation and the collaborative efforts between CDA and PCA. His narrative wove together past achievements and future aspirations, inspiring a sense of purpose among the participants.
Following the preliminaries, Ms. Eva Loraine R. Cataje, a seasoned Senior Cooperatives Development Specialist, took the stage to impart knowledge on Financial Management. With clarity and precision, she elucidated the principles of financial stewardship, empowering the cooperatives to navigate economic challenges with confidence.
Day 3: May 29, 2024 – Navigating Financial Literacy
As the seminar progressed into its third day, another guest punctuated the agenda. The program presentation of DBP Oriental Mindoro briefly diverted attention, showcasing the collaborative spirit of development initiatives in the region. However, the participants quickly realigned their focus as Ms. Eva Loraine resumed her expertise, delving into Financial Literacy. Her engaging delivery style captivated the audience, transforming complex concepts into actionable insights.
Simultaneously, the MIMAROPA RCDC Meeting convened, providing a platform for cooperative stakeholders to deliberate on pertinent issues. Election of officers and strategic planning infused the atmosphere with a sense of camaraderie and purpose, reinforcing the collaborative ethos underlying cooperative development.
Day 4: May 30, 2024 – Senator Bong Go’s ‘Malasakit sa Kooperatiba’ Initiative
The culmination of the seminar series culminated in a display of governmental support and solidarity. Senator Bong Go’s ‘Malasakit sa Kooperatiba’ Activity, hosted at Capitol in the South, epitomized a commitment to grassroots empowerment. Cooperative representatives from Occidental Mindoro, Oriental Mindoro, Marinduque, and Romblon received financial assistance, symbolizing a tangible investment in their endeavors.
Mr. Jefhtee Panganiban facilitated a short orientation on the proper utilization and liquidation of the assistance, ensuring transparency and accountability. Meanwhile, Ms. Eva Loraine Cataje introduced the concept of Business Continuity Management, underscoring the importance of resilience in the face of challenges.
The event, co-hosted by Senator Bong Go’s office, served as a beacon of hope, reinforcing the symbiotic relationship between government agencies and grassroots organizations. As the participants departed, they carried with them not only financial aid but also a renewed sense of purpose and determination to foster cooperative resilience and prosperity.
Day 5: May 31, 2024 – Taking Home Seeds of Knowledge
As the sun rose on the fifth day, a sense of fulfillment lingered in the air. The participants, armed with newfound knowledge and a renewed sense of purpose, prepared to journey back to their respective communities. Bags laden not just with pamphlets and papers, but with hope and determination, they left the seminar venue with smiles on their faces and dreams in their hearts.
Conversations buzzed with excitement, as farmers exchanged ideas and made plans for the future. Each step homeward was a step closer to realizing their cooperative dreams. The lessons learned over the past few days were not just for the seminar hall; they were seeds to be sown in the fertile soil of their communities.
As the transportation vans departed and roads stretched out before them, the participants carried with them not only the tangible tools for cooperative success but also the intangible spirit of collaboration and resilience. With hearts brimming with hope and minds teeming with possibilities, they set forth on their journey, ready to nurture their cooperatives and cultivate a brighter future for themselves and generations to come.
