by: JOSHUA C. NAYLES, CDS II
Naga City, Camarines Sur – As part of the highlights on the recently concluded Cooperative School on Wheels (CSW) and Handholding Activities in Naga City, Smart Communications Employees Multi-Purpose Cooperative (SEMPCO) together with its identified beneficiary cooperative, the Verdant Agriculture Cooperative, officiallly renewed their partnership under the authority’s Koop Kapatid Program. The hybrid Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) signing that took place in AlJosh Cafe, Naga City on March 25, 2024 has showcased to the attending representatives from the different cooperatives in Naga City the true essence of “cooperation among cooperatives”, demonstrating the bayanihan system, the cooperative way.
CDA R5 officials led by Acting Regional Director, Atty. Emilio D. Escueta III and Acting Assistant Regional Director at the same time Chief of Cooperative Project & Development Assistance Section (CPDAS), Engr. Zaldy G. Bermejo has graced the MOA signing. On the other hand, the ardent partner cooperative – SEMPCO, was virtually represented by its General Manager, Mr. Edgar Mendoza.
Ms. Vivian S. Hina, General Manager of Verdant Agriculture Cooperative, expressed her utmost gratitude for the opportunity given to them by their big brother cooperative. Given the fact that its their second time being a cooperative beneficiary of SEMPCO under the Phase II of the project being funded by the same, she assured that their cooperative will effectively utilize the resources being shared to them. Also, with Ms. Hina is Ms. Imelda Del Rosario, Vice Chairman of Verdant Agriculture Cooperative.
“Sa aming renewed partnership na nakafocus sa pag expand pa ng aming production facilities, mas makakagawa kami ng fine quality cacao products para sa aming mga consumers. Salamat po sa SEMPCO sa walang sawang suporta sa amin.”
– Ms Vivian S. Hina, GM, Verdant Agriculture Cooperative
As stipulated in Memorandum of Agreement, under the Phase II of the project, SEMPCO will be providing funds to Verdant AC chargeable against their Community Development Fund (CDF) for the expansion and construction of the cacao production facility and additional equipment for the production of cacao products. Currently, Verdant Agriculture Cooperative has several cacao by-products namely; tablea, roasted cacao nibs, cacao spread and the mexican sauce called “mole negro”. Thru the implementation of the project, Verdant AC will be able to produce more fine quality cacao products which on the long run, will provide competitive returns for their cooperative. The parties agreed to implement the project within the period of twelve (12) months from the date of signing.
In his message of support, in behalf of the SEMPCO, Mr. Edgar Mendoza shared how they are grateful in assisting the Verdant Agriculture Cooperative since the Phase I of the project under the Koop Kapatid Program. As stated by Mr. Mendoza, them in SEMPCO is sincerely hoping that their collaboration and assistance with the Verdant Agriculture Cooperative will significantly contribute to the realization of the cooperative’s goals and aspirations.
Emphasizing the CDA MC 2023-02 or the Revised Guidelines on the Implementation of the Koop Kapatid Program, both parties were reminded to submit the prescribed quarterly progress reports and for the benefit also of the attending participants during the CSW, the Koop Kapatid Program was discussed comprehensively, its general provisions and prohibitions, as part of the promotional initiative of the authority.
Wrapping up the Naga City Cooperative School on Wheels, the Koop Kapatid MOA Signing has demonstrated how the authority is truly committed to the delivery of its developmental function thru the implementation of various support programs. With the proper management of resources, putting in heart the essence of every cooperative principle and with the presence of program like this that contributes to the socio-economic development, we can look forward to more progressive cooperatives.
