In the small town of Paluan, Abra de Ilog, Occidental Mindoro, there arose a cooperative that would soon become a shining example of success and best practices. This cooperative was known as the New Maduron Country Farm Cooperative (NMCFC), located at 262 San Agustin, Brgy. 2.

In the year 2018, NMCFC embarked on a journey to implement their best practices, setting themselves apart as a cooperative that valued collaboration and partnerships. Recognizing the power of working together, NMCFC forged linkages and partnerships with other cooperatives and various partners, not only for business collaborations but also for non-business endeavors. Through these alliances, NMCFC was able to access a wider network of suppliers, customers, and resources. They joined forces with neighboring farming cooperatives, sharing knowledge and resources to improve agricultural practices and increase productivity. Additionally, NMCFC collaborated with federation to provide training and educational programs to its members, empowering them with the latest farming techniques and market trends. These linkages and partnerships not only enhanced NMCFC’s operations but also fostered a sense of community and mutual support among cooperatives in the region.

To ensure the cooperative’s long-term success, NMCFC formulated and implemented comprehensive plans for cooperative growth and development. The cooperative recognized the importance of having a clear roadmap to guide their actions and decision-making processes. They conducted thorough assessments of their strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats, and developed strategies to capitalize on their strengths and address any challenges. NMCFC’s comprehensive plans included targets for increasing membership, expanding their product offerings, and exploring new markets. By setting clear goals and objectives, NMCFC provided a sense of direction and purpose to its members, motivating them to work towards the cooperative’s success.
In their pursuit of excellence, NMCFC observed strict compliance with cooperative reportorial and other legal requirements. They understood the importance of transparency and accountability in their operations. Regular and accurate financial reports were prepared and shared with members, ensuring that everyone had access to relevant information. NMCFC meticulously complied with all legal obligations, including filing necessary documents and reports with the appropriate government agencies. By maintaining a high level of compliance, NMCFC built trust and credibility among its members and stakeholders, reinforcing their commitment to ethical and responsible practices.

NMCFC also prioritized the optimized participation of its members in cooperative affairs. They recognized that the cooperative’s success relied on the active involvement and engagement of all its members. Regular general assembly meetings were held, where members were given a platform to voice their opinions, suggestions, and concerns. NMCFC encouraged the active participation of its members in decision-making processes, empowering them to contribute their ideas and expertise. The cooperative organized training programs and workshops to enhance the skills and knowledge of its members, equipping them with the necessary tools to actively contribute to the cooperative’s affairs. By valuing and respecting the input of its members, NMCFC fostered a sense of ownership and unity within the cooperative.

Efficient management of resources, both human and financial, was another pillar of NMCFC’s best practices. The cooperative recognized that effective utilization of its resources was crucial for its sustainability and growth. They implemented sound financial management practices, ensuring that funds were allocated wisely and in line with the cooperative’s goals. NMCFC hired skilled professionals to manage their finances and implemented strict budgeting and monitoring processes. They also invested in the development of their human resources, providing training and capacity-building opportunities to their staff and members. By optimizing the management of their resources, NMCFC achieved operational efficiency, maximizing their potential for success.

From their humble beginnings in 2018 after their long years of losses, the New Maduron Country Farm Cooperative (NMCFC) rose to prominence through their commitment to best practices. With established linkages and partnerships, comprehensive plans, compliance with legal requirements, optimized member participation, and efficient resource management, NMCFC became a beacon of success in Paluan, Abra de Ilog. Their dedication to collaboration, transparency, and excellence set an example for other cooperatives in the region. NMCFC’s rise was a testament to the power of unity, strategic planning, and responsible management, inspiring a new era of prosperity for the cooperative and its members.