The Credit Surety Fund Cooperative (CSFC) recently marked a significant milestone with the successful completion of its interim election of officers. This pivotal event highlights the cooperative’s commitment to robust governance, active member participation, and visionary leadership for the cooperatives of Northern Samar.
Held on June 11, 2024, at the Provincial Government’s Nipa Room in Catarman, Northern Samar, the interim election saw a remarkable turnout of primary members, all eager to shape the cooperative’s future. The atmosphere was charged with enthusiasm and a shared sense of purpose, reflecting the strong community spirit that defines the CSFC.
CDA-CSFC is blessed and salutes the unwavering support of Governor Edwin Marino C. Ongchuan and the provincial government officials, who have supported the cooperative advocacy program from day one up to present. This support, along with various cooperative programs, is advancing the growth of cooperatives in Northern Samar.
The historic milestone was celebrated by the majority of primary members, represented by their principal and alternate representatives. The officials and staff of the Provincial Cooperative and Community Affairs Office (PCCAO), led by OIC- Engr. Romeo Cardenas, was present, along with the designated Municipal Cooperative Development Officers (MCDOs), microcooperatives, and representatives from the CDA Region VIII Office, headed by the supportive Regional Director, Ms. Venus M. Jornales. Key CDA officials included Mr. Elihu A. Remigio, CDS II assigned in Northern Samar, Sr. CDS Rowan L. delos Santos, and the CSF Region 8 , Sr. CDS Irene R. Petilla and CDS I Walter C. Cantero.
In his welcome message, Engr. Romeo Cardenas emphasized the importance of the meeting, which was previously postponed due to technical issues. He highlighted that face-to-face meetings are crucial for the establishment of the CSF cooperative, ensuring its official registration becomes a reality. Furthermore, Ms. Irene Petilla, Senior CDS- CSF started the meeting through giving the agenda to the attendees which are:
– Updates of the CSF documentation from the Cooperative Representatives
– Scheduling the date for the coop’s pledged contribution to the NSCSFC
– Election of Interim Officers
– Tentative date of the Roadshow
– CDA Updates
– Other Matters
The newly elected officers bring a wealth of experience, fresh perspectives, and a shared vision for the future of the CSFC. The key positions filled include:
● Chairperson: Abel Alejandro Flores
● Vice-Chairperson: Felicidad A. Alvañiz
● Members of the Board:
○ Cipriano Gardoque
○ Maria Golda A. Rodelas
○ Editha E. Adalla
The rest of the officers and committee members will be decided by the board of directors chaired by Mr. Abel Alejandro Flores. An equally important agenda item in the meeting was the advocacy of merging and consolidating micro and small cooperatives, delivered by RD Jornales. She emphasized that the CDA’s focus on the quality of cooperatives rather than their number is crucial for fostering a thriving, sustainable cooperative sector. Quality cooperatives not only provide substantial benefits to their members but also contribute significantly to the economic and social fabric of their communities. Senior Cooperative Development Specialist (Sr. CDS) Rowan delos Santos presented the Coconut Farmers and Industry Development Plan (CFIDP) programs to the cooperatives of Northern Samar, encouraging coco farmers’ cooperatives to join the free training sessions provided. He highlighted the benefits and opportunities these programs offer to enhance productivity and economic
well-being.
CDS II Elihu A. Remigio emphasized key points from CDA MC 2023-12, outlining the guidelines for implementing the CDA Certification Program for Cooperative Development Officers and monitoring the compliance of Certified Cooperative Development Officers. Together, we can achieve great things and continue to build a cooperative that truly serves its members and the wider community. Stay tuned for more updates and opportunities to get involved in the exciting initiatives ahead for the growth of cooperatives in Northern Samar.
