The Cooperative Development Authority Region 7, through its Credit Surety Fund Section conducted an internal orientation on Memorandum Circular No. 2025-08 known as the “Guidelines on the Establishment of Financial Consumer Protection Assistance Management System (FCPAMS) by the CDA-Regulated Entities (CDAREs).”  This initiative aims to ensure that CDA personnel are well-prepared with the necessary knowledge, skills, and operational understanding in preparation to the full implementation of the FCPAMS.

On February 27, 2026, Sr. CDS of CSF Gina F. Repunte led the orientation highlighting the significance of the Financial Consumer Protection Assistance Management System (FCPAMS). She explained that FCPAMS will serve as the main platform for addressing consumer concerns such as complaints, inquiries and requests related to financial products, services, and transactions within cooperatives.

As stressed, for effective implementation, cooperatives with savings, credit and investment must establish or designate a Consumer Assistance Team (CAT), which will act as the primary contact between the cooperative and financial consumers regarding financial products and services related issues. It was further emphasized, that FCPAMS ensures consumers to have access to a complaint resolution process that is accessible, affordable, independent, fair, accountable, timely, and efficient, thereby safeguarding their financial transactions.

By institutionalizing FCPAMS, CDA Region 7 is aligning with national efforts to enhance financial consumer protection, ensuring that cooperatives remain trustworthy, member-focused, and compliant with evolving regulatory requirements. (PJG)