On October 5, 2024, in Isabel, Leyte, the Isabel Municipal Cooperative Development Council, in partnership with LGU Isabel and the Cooperative Development Authority, held the Opening Salvo for the Cooperative Month Celebration with the theme “Cooperatives: Stronger Together Today for a Brighter Tomorrow.” This festive event featured a vibrant motorcade, a lively talent presentation, and engaging parlor games, bringing together cooperative members of all ages.

The day began with a colorful motorcade joined by various cooperatives. Each participating vehicle was adorned with Coop Month tarpaulins, banners, and balloons, accompanied by a lively band that energized more than a hundred participants and captured the attention of onlookers. The atmosphere was filled with excitement and camaraderie as the parade made its way from one end of Isabel to the other, promoting the values of cooperation and community spirit.

As the opening ceremony commenced, Ms. Lilt Clemeña, Isabel’s Cooperative Development Officer, delivered her opening message, warmly welcoming everyone to join the celebration. To set a lively tone for the rest of the event, participants engaged in an energetic Zumba session. The upbeat dance workout helped everyone warm up and created an atmosphere of excitement and enthusiasm. Hon. Dan Tentativa, SB Chairman on Cooperatives, represented the Mayor, Hon. Atty. Edgardo Cordeño, and delivered an inspiring message. He emphasized the local government unit’s support for cooperatives and announced that the LGU had already approved the budget for Cooperative Month activities, including training programs. He encouraged everyone to actively participate in the month’s events, highlighting how working together can lead to shared success.

Meanwhile, Ms. Gerlen L. Lagrosa, representing the Cooperative Development Authority, emphasized the profound significance of the Cooperative Month theme, focusing on unity, immediate action, hope for the future, inclusivity, and sustainability. She stressed that the theme serves as a rallying cry for cooperatives to face challenges together and work toward a brighter, more equitable, and sustainable future. “Together, we are indeed stronger, and together, we will create a brighter tomorrow,” she said.

Between the speeches, each cooperative showcased its talents. Performances included singing, dancing, and spoken poetry. The talent presentation not only provided entertainment but also fostered a sense of pride among the performers and the cooperatives they represented. The program then transitioned to parlor games, inviting cooperative members of all ages to participate in fun and interactive activities. The featured game was a message relay with a twist, with winners receiving cash prizes, adding to the festive atmosphere and encouraging spirited participation.

The Cooperative Month Opening Salvo was a resounding success, setting a positive and energetic tone for the month ahead. The combination of the motorcade, talent presentation, and parlor games brought the cooperative community together, celebrating the spirit of cooperation and unity.