HIGHLIGHTS | The recent CDA Region VIII meeting with the Provincial Governor of Southern Leyte and the Mayor of Maasin City was a success.

On August 14, 2023, Cooperative Development Authority- R8 thru Acting Regional Director Venus M. Jornales, Senior CDS Irene R. Petilla, CDS II Lloyd L. Padilla, Vina Marie Therese M. Ilagan- Amper, Ivy C. Avestruz, CDS I Walter Marc C. Cantero visited the Office of the Provincial Governor of Southern Leyte to conduct orientation of the new programs offered by the CDA. During the meeting, Director Jornales highlighted with Governor Damian G. Mercado the critical role of local governments in implementing CDA programs and the significant contribution they can make to the program’s success. Director Jornales further stated that the CDA is always willing to assist its cooperatives, particularly in terms of technical assistance and close monitoring through the presence of Field Cooperatives Specialists deployed in the Province of Southern Leyte.

Furthermore, Irene R. Petilla, Senior CDS and Section Chief of Credit Surety Fund explained and introduced to Governor Mercado the programs within the CSF, emphasizing the advantages and benefits it may provide to registered and qualified cooperatives. Governor Mercado stated about the importance of cooperatives and their impact on the community. Also discussed during the meeting was the benchmarking of the Province of Southern Leyte together with CDA personnel to electric cooperatives in Dumaguete, the creation of the Provincial Cooperative Development Council (PCDC), and the Merging and consolidation of Micro and small cooperatives.

Also present during the meeting were Provincial Cooperative Development Officer, Feliciano L. Malaki,Jr. SP Secretary, Meralyn M. Lanugan, and Board Member, Rolando Q. Bacoy. Meanwhile, with the same agenda, CDA Personnel headed by Acting Regional Director Venus M. Jornales, Senior CDS Irene R. Petilla, CDS II Lloyd L. Padilla, Vina Marie Therese M. Ilagan- Amper, Ivy C. Avestruz, CDS I Walter Marc C. Cantero visited the office of Mayor Nacional V. Mercado, Maasin City to introduce the Credit Surety Fund program. They were accommodated and one of the highlights of the meeting with Mayor Mercado was the scheduling for a dialogue between the CDA, Cooperatives, and LGU. It aims to raise awareness, clarifications, and consultation among the cooperatives. Further, Director Venus M. Jornales express gratitude to LGU Maasin for its warm hospitality and assistance. The provincial and city officials have indicated their willingness to back the Credit Surety Fund Cooperative at the local level.

Also present during the activity were Tourism Officer, Atty. Pina Luz Abrea, HRMO Ralil Inocando, and Assistant City Budget Officer, Ethel Grace Barrientes- Seno. Each notable person mentioned equally shared their gratitude, insights, and suggestions to the CDA Region VIII extension office.