The Cooperative Development Authority (CDA) Region VIII Extension Office has successfully concluded the 8-day Cooperative Development Officer (CDO) Certification Program for Batch 2 of the KASARIGAN group. This program, aligned with the guidelines set forth in CDA Memorandum Circular 2023-12, is an integral part of the ongoing efforts to professionalize and strengthen the cooperative sector in the Philippines. The memorandum provides clear instructions on the certification of Cooperative Development Officers (CDOs) and the monitoring of their compliance with standards set by the CDA.
Initially scheduled to run from November 12-19, 2024, at Almeria, Biliran, the training program encountered an unforeseen disruption when Typhoon Pepito hit the region on the 4th day of the session, forcing a temporary suspension of activities. Despite this setback, the CDA swiftly rescheduled and successfully resumed the program on November 25, 2024, in Tacloban City. The program concluded on November 28, 2024, marking the successful completion of the certification process for the second batch of trainees. The program itself was comprehensive and intensive, focusing on key areas crucial for the development and effective management of cooperatives. Participants engaged in in-depth training sessions that covered various aspects of cooperative governance, financial management, legal frameworks, and operational best practices. The goal was to ensure that the trainees were equipped with the knowledge and skills necessary to oversee and manage cooperatives with a focus on sustainability, accountability, and growth. With the skills gained during the program, these newly certified CDOs are now empowered to contribute significantly to the cooperative movement, both regionally and nationally.
A total of 36 participants from 27 cities and municipalities, as well as one provincial government, completed the program and received their Certificate of Completion. Among them, 32 were also issued the Certificate of Authority, officially granting them the authorization to conduct mandatory cooperative training within their respective local government units (LGUs). This certification empowers these CDOs to assume leadership roles within their cooperatives, ensuring that they are equipped with the expertise to promote transparency, effective governance, and the long-term success of the organizations they represent.
The second batch of graduates, named “KASARIGAN” in recognition of their collective strength and commitment, now joins a growing network of certified CDOs who are dedicated to advancing the cooperative sector. These CDOs play an essential role in fostering the development of cooperatives, helping them navigate challenges, and ensuring they are equipped to thrive in an increasingly dynamic and complex economic environment. The CDA Region VIII Extension Office extends its congratulations to all the graduates of Batch 2 KASARIGAN. The successful completion of this certification program marks an important milestone in their professional journey. The CDA remains committed to providing continuous education and support to cooperative leaders, reinforcing the importance of good governance, and promoting transparency in cooperatives. Through initiatives such as the CDO Certification Program, the CDA strives to raise the standards of professionalism within the cooperative sector, ensuring that it remains a vital and sustainable component of the region’s economic development.
This certification program is part of the CDA’s broader vision to enhance the capabilities of cooperative officers, elevate the professionalism of those involved in the campaign to a sustainable, competitive cooperative movement.
