The Cooperative Development Authority (CDA) Region 8 recently conducted a productive courtesy visit to the Office of Governor Jericho “Icot” Petilla. During this visit, they discussed several key initiatives, including the introduction of RA 11535, the “Cooperatives Development Officer Act,” as well as the merger and consolidation of cooperatives, and the Credit Surety Fund (CSF) programs. This important dialogue was attended by Asec Luz Yringco, RD Venus M. Jornales, and Irene R. Petilla, Sr. CDS-CSF.
Governor Icot emphasized the significance of financial literacy for cooperative stakeholders, highlighting it as a crucial factor for their success. The team introduced RA 10744, the “Credit Surety Act of 2015,” which is an LGU-partnered initiative comprising well-managed and well-capitalized cooperatives and other stakeholders to facilitate easier access to bank credits. This act is one of the flagship programs of the Authority in partnership with the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas.
Governor Icot expressed a keen interest in learning more and invited us to return for a detailed presentation. The meeting was warm and welcoming, and we look forward to further collaboration in enhancing the cooperative sector in our community, particularly in the province of Leyte!
