DCCCO Multi Purpose Coooperative(DCCCO MPC), having branch and satellite offices in the identified conflict areas of Negros Oriental, was invited by Cooperative Development Authority(CDA) of Region 7 to participate in the End Local Communist Armed Conflict (ELCAC) Program. Series of meetings were conducted for the implementation of the program and the security of the personnel involved was the foremost concern of the cooperative. On December 17, 2019, a Memorandum of Agreement was forged by and between CDA and DCCCO MPC.

In observance to the government’s protocol and regulation on the COVID 19 pandemic, the implementation of the program was suspended for the time being.

On December 14, 2020, initial activity for the program was conducted through the distribution of school supplies to the affected barangays of the Municipality of Zamboanguita, Negros Oriental, namely barangay Calango with 193 bags of supplies and Mayabon with 1,913. The activity was graced by the PRLEC Head, TESDA Provincial Director Joel Villagracia, Alpha Marie Delos Reyes(DILG), CDA personnel Acting Sr CDS for CRITS Gracia Nenita B. Banogon and CDS II(Team Leader) Ramon P. Buenavista; and PNP Officer Arman Trinidad.

DCCCO MPC was represented by Board of Director Mr. Edilberito B. Euraoba II,Project Staff Annamar Eparwa, Vhrence Kirby Nunez, and Russel Jay Catubig, turned over the supplies to the Department of Education through the District Supervisor of Zamboanguita, Dr. Jenny Abejero. The turn over was witnessed by the representative of Mayor Glenson Alanano, Barangay Councilors, Parents Teachers Association officers and teachers of Calango Elementary School and Mayabon Elementary School, Zamboanguita, Negros Oriental.

According to late President John F. Kennedy, “Peace is a daily, weekly, monthly process, gradually changing opinions, slowly eroding old barriers, quietly building new structures.’’

DCCCO’s brave move and commitment to take part in the ELCAC Program the “cooperative way” is a manifestation that peace and harmony is everyone’s concern. And that through the continuous activities of the cooperatives to transform lives of members, as well as the community, the elusive dream of peace will be attained someday.

By Gracia Nenita B. Banogon
CDS II