On December 9, 2024, Monday, the Cooperative Development Authority (CDA) took the spotlight on XFM 99.9 Tacloban’s morning program to promote its role as a vital agency in cooperative development as a tool for empowering communities. and fostering inclusive economic growth. The program, hosted by Mr. Reygie Navarrete and aired from 8:00 AM to 9:00 AM, focused on the CDA’s initiatives, services, and the benefits of cooperative development as a vehicle for sustainable development. The segment was graced by the presence of the Regional Director of the CDA Region VIII Extension Office, Director Venus M. Jornales who provided a comprehensive overview of the agency’s initiatives, accompanied by CDS II Irish Joy I. Adrales from the Cooperative Project and Development Assistance Section (CPDAS).

During the program, CDA representatives emphasized their mandate to promote, develop, and regulate cooperatives, in line with the principles outlined in the Philippine Cooperative Code (RA 9520). They discussed how the agency provides technical assistance, training, and legal guidance to cooperatives, helping communities establish sustainable livelihood and business opportunities. The representatives also detailed the process of cooperative registration, including the required Pre-Registration Seminar (PRS) and submission of key documents like the Articles of Cooperation, By-Laws, and an economic survey.

Mr. Navarrete engaged the CDA team in discussions on the various types of cooperatives recognized in the country, which are grouped into six main clusters: Credit and Financial Services (including Banking, Credit Surety Fund, and Insurance); Consumers, Marketing, Producers, and Logistics; Human Services (such as Health, Housing, Workers, and Labor Services); Education and Advocacy; Agriculture, Agrarian, Aquaculture, Farmers, Dairy, and Fisherfolk; and Public Utilities (covering Electricity, Water, Communications, and Transport).

These cooperatives serve a wide range of needs, from micro-financing and resource pooling to product distribution, all of which help members enhance their livelihoods and build stable businesses.

The CDA highlighted the advantages of cooperatives as member-owned, democratically managed organizations that prioritize shared prosperity. They also discussed the governance structure of cooperatives, with the Board of Directors acting as the legislative body and committees overseeing audit, election, mediation, and other essential areas.

Listeners were encouraged to explore the cooperative model as an effective tool for community development and to approach the CDA for assistance in establishing or managing cooperatives. The interview served as a platform to raise awareness about the CDA’s mission and to inspire more individuals to join or form cooperatives, contributing to the agency’s vision of inclusive growth through collective effort.

The Regional Director invited interested individuals and groups to visit the CDA Region VIII Extension Office for further guidance on forming or enhancing cooperatives. The interview not only showcased the CDA’s vital role in the region but also inspired greater participation in the cooperative movement, reinforcing its vision of empowering communities through collective effort and inclusive economic opportunities.

Prepared by: COOPERATIVE PROJECT DEVELOPMENT AND ASSISTANCE SECTION (CPDAS)