by: LARRY L. VILLALUZ, CDS II
Naga City – The Cooperative Development Authority (CDA) recently concluded Batch 1 of the 8-day Cooperative Development Officers (CDOs) Certification Program, as per Memorandum Circular 2023-12. The event, held on August 27-30 and September 3-6, 2024, at the CDA Region V Conference Hall in Naga City, saw the active participation of CDOs from key municipalities and cities across the Camarines provinces, including Baao, Basud, Bombon, Bula, Iriga City, Sagnay, Sipocot, and Tinambac.
The certification program is designed to align with the CDA’s guidelines for training development, aiming to equip CDOs with essential skills and knowledge to support and enhance the growth of cooperatives within their jurisdictions. As part of the two-phase program, resource speakers Mr. Anthony P. Galvan and Ms. Marie Chris G. Valencia led sessions on the Fundamentals of Cooperatives and Governance and Management of Cooperatives, offering comprehensive insights into mandatory training content for cooperatives.
Complementing these technical discussions were training methodology sessions conducted by esteemed professors from the Central Bicol State University of Agriculture (CBSUA), Ms. Lily John B. Casimiro and Ms. Wenielyn G. Nilo. Their contributions provided a deeper understanding of effective adult learning techniques, empowering CDOs to serve as skilled trainers for cooperatives in their areas.
The program’s significance was underscored by the presence of CDA Regional Director Atty. Emilio D. Escueta III, who served also as a resource person during phase 1, and Acting Assistant Regional Director Engr. Zaldy G. Bermejo during the culminating ceremony. Their attendance highlighted the CDA’s dedication to ensuring that CDOs are well-prepared and certified, with each certification holding a three-year validity as a trainer, further strengthening cooperative development efforts across the region.
The event was organized and facilitated by the Cooperative Research, Information, and Training Section (CRITS), led by Mr. Larry L. Villaluz, CDS II. CRITS ensured the smooth execution of the program, which marked a crucial step in enhancing the capabilities of CDOs in the Camarines provinces.
Upon successful completion of the program, certified CDOs now play a pivotal role in the training and development of cooperatives within their jurisdictions. As certified trainers, they are responsible for helping cooperatives navigate governance, management, and compliance, ultimately contributing to the sustainability and growth of cooperatives in the region. The program serves as a key mechanism in the CDA’s mission to professionalize and elevate cooperative management through ongoing education and hands-on support.
With this batch successfully completed, the CDA looks forward to further batches that will continue to strengthen cooperative sectors across the country.
