In celebration of Global Money Week 2026, the Cooperative Development Authority (CDA) – MIMAROPA Region successfully conducted the Regional Poster-Making Contest on March 1, 2026, through a simultaneous provincial setup with centralized monitoring via Zoom.

Carrying the theme “Smart Money Talks,” the activity gathered talented young members of Laboratory Cooperatives across the region. Participants, aged 7 to 17 years old, convened at their respective provincial venues while being virtually connected through a unified online program that officially commenced at 9:30 AM.

The program opened with welcome remarks from Regional Director Alberto A. Sabarias, who emphasized the importance of instilling financial literacy among the youth. He highlighted that those empowering young cooperative members with knowledge on saving, responsible spending, and smart financial decision-making contributes to building financially resilient communities.

Following a brief orientation and reminder of contest mechanics, the two-hour poster-making proper officially began simultaneously in all provinces. Participants worked diligently on their canvas entries, creatively expressing their interpretations of the theme. Strict adherence to contest guidelines was observed, ensuring that all artworks were hand-drawn, original, and completed within the allotted time.

Each participant also submitted an Artist Statement of not more than 100 words, explaining how their artwork reflected the message of “Smart Money Talks.” The statements further demonstrated the young artists’ understanding of financial responsibility, savings culture, and the value of wise money management.

Immediately after the contest proper, photographs of the completed entries were uploaded for evaluation by the Regional Board of Judges. The judging process followed the official criteria, focusing on creativity, relevance to the theme, artistic composition, and visual impact.

The activity concluded with expressions of appreciation to all participating Laboratory Cooperatives, Provincial Cooperative Development Specialists, facilitators, and members of the Board of Judges who contributed to the event’s smooth and successful conduct.

The Top Regional Winner will be endorsed to the CDA Head Office to represent the MIMAROPA Region in the national selection.

Through initiatives such as this, the CDA continues to strengthen youth engagement in cooperative development and promote financial literacy in line with the goals of Global Money Week 2026.