During the Opening Program held at CDA Region V Extension Office, the Assistant Regional Director Engr. Zaldy G. Bermejo represented Regional Director Atty. Emilio D. Escueta III, who attended the National Launching of Coop Month in Manila, welcomed the cooperatives and stakeholders during his opening remarks. The event rationale was discussed by Mr. Jon Andrei Emmanuel Banday, CDS II of CRITS, citing the close coordination between the authority and sector in making this kick off a success. Messages of support were delivered by Sangguniang Panlungsod ng Naga Committee on Cooperatives Chairperson, Honorable Ghiel “Oying” Rosales; the Bicol Regional Cooperative Development Council Chairperson, Mr. Marte Olaguera; the Naga City Cooperative Development Council Chairperson, Mr. Daisy Geolin; the Naga City Cooperative Development Officer, Mr. John Paul Buendia, and the LGU Pili Cooperative Development Officer, Mr. Geronimo Ayo Jr. Words of gratitude were delivered by Ms. Marie Chris G. Valencia, Senior CDS and Chief of CRITS.

Despite the onslaught of Typhoon Opong in the province island of Masbate, the Sitio Tesa Agrarian Reform Cooperative spent the first day of Coop Month Celebration with a clean-up drive. A motorcade and opening program were also held in the provinces of Sorsogon and Catanduanes.

The month of October, in accordance with Republic Act 11502, being declared as the National Cooperative Month is mandating the Cooperative Development Authority in partnership with the sector and other government agencies to conduct activities and programs that promote the principles and values of cooperatives and encourage cooperative movement.