In a concerted effort to promote cooperative development and legal literacy, the Cooperative Development Authority (CDA) Region V Extension Office has formalized partnership under the CDA Laws Awareness Program (CLAP) with the Integrated Bar of the Philippines (IBP) – Camarines Sur Chapter through a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) signed on May 8, 2025, in Naga City, Camarines Sur.

The MOA signing ceremony was held at the Board Room of Villa Caceres Hotel. Signing the MOA on behalf of the Authority was Undersecretary Alexander B. Raquepo along with Region V Extension Office Regional Director Atty. Emilio D. Escueta III, Assistant Regional Director Engr. Zaldy G. Bermejo, and Chief of Legal Section Atty. Myk Xavier L. Albao. Representing IBP – Camarines Sur Chapter were President Atty. Fe Rosario P. Buelva, Vice President Atty. Alex A. Arejola, and Chair of Legal Aid Committee, Atty. Phil Mayhay

This Memorandum of Agreement highlights a mutual commitment to advancing cooperative development by ensuring the provision of accessible pro bono legal services to cooperatives, particularly those that encounter difficulties in obtaining legal assistance.

Anchored in the CDA’s CLAP and the Unified Legal Aid Service (ULAS) Program of the Supreme Court, the partnership enables lawyers to fulfill their mandated community service by offering legal assistance while addressing legal issues involving cooperatives. This not only addresses the legal needs of cooperatives but also reinforces the role of legal professionals in promoting social justice and inclusivity.

The primary goal of this partnership is to support the growth and long-term viability of Micro and Small Cooperatives in Camarines Sur by ensuring they have access to free and quality legal services. Through this joint effort and collaboration, the signing parties gear-up to empower cooperatives and reinforce the legal profession’s commitment to public service and social responsibility.