The Two-Day Libmanan Cooperative Congress, held from October 29 to 30, 2025 at the Libmanan Sports Complex, brought together the cooperative sector under the theme “Strengthening Cooperatives as Pillars of Local Economic Development.”

The event opened with a vibrant parade showcasing the unity and enthusiasm of the cooperative movement in Libmanan. A total of 24 cooperatives and partner agencies actively participated in the congress, sharing their programs, success stories, and opportunities for collaboration in celebration of Cooperative Month.

The Local Government Unit (LGU) of Libmanan, under the leadership of Hon. Edelson M. Marfil, Mayor of Libmanan, warmly welcomed participants representing three cooperative clusters: Agriculture Cooperatives, Transport Cooperatives, and Employees, Credit, and Multipurpose Cooperatives. In his inspirational message, Mayor Marfil emphasized, “Together, let us champion our cooperatives as pillars of opportunity, innovation, and bayanihan for every Libmaneño.”

Also present during the event were Hon. Ariel T. Oriño, Vice Mayor of Libmanan, and the representative of Hon. Jerry R. Tendero, who both delivered messages of strong support for the cooperative sector.

Mayor Marfil administered the Oath-Taking Ceremony of the Municipal Cooperative Development Council (MCDC) of Libmanan, chaired by Mr. Marlon M. Asidillo, Chairman of CASURECO I Employees Multi-Purpose Cooperative.

One of the highlights of the congress was the message delivered by Atty. Emilio D. Escueta III, Regional Director of the Cooperative Development Authority (CDA) Region V Extension Office, who encouraged cooperatives to continuously strengthen and promote their role as key drivers of local economic growth. Engr. Zaldy G. Bermejo, Supervising Cooperative Development Specialist, presented the Philippine Cooperative Development Plan and discussed “The Role of Cooperatives in Building Local Economies.”

In addition, Ms. Annielen L. Panerio, Chief Exec. Office from the Camarines Sur Multi-Purpose Cooperative shared best practices and success stories of their cooperative, inspiring participants to strive for sustainability and excellence. Other partner agencies also presented their respective programs and assistance opportunities for the cooperative sector.

To address local concerns and foster collaboration, participants were grouped into three clusters for breakout sessions:

1. Agriculture Cooperatives

2. Transport Cooperatives

3. Employees, Credit, Multipurpose, and Institutional Cooperatives

During these sessions, members discussed their respective challenges, exchanged ideas, and proposed actionable solutions to strengthen the cooperative movement in Libmanan.

The Libmanan Cooperative Congress 2025 concluded with a renewed commitment from all participating cooperatives and partner agencies to work hand in hand in advancing inclusive and sustainable local economic development.