On December 13, 2024, a significant milestone in cooperative development was marked with the signing of a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) between the Fatima Multipurpose Cooperative (FATIMA MPC) and the Ormoc Rice Seed Growers Multipurpose Cooperative (ORSEPRO MPC) in Ormoc City, Leyte. The MOA formalizes a five-year partnership (2024–2029) under the Cooperative Development
Authority’s (CDA) “Koop Kapatid Program,” aimed at fostering collaboration between a more established cooperative and a less-developed one to promote agricultural sustainability and cooperative growth. The signing ceremony was attended by key figures from both cooperatives, including Ms. Nellen S. Albeos, Chairperson of FATIMA MPC, and Mr. Rafael Benjamin B. Omega III, Chairperson of ORSEPRO MPC.
The presence of CDA Regional Director, Director Venus M. Jornales, was pivotal in facilitating the partnership between the two cooperatives. Her leadership in guiding the “Koop Kapatid Program” ensured that the collaboration was aligned with the CDA’s development mandate to strengthen the cooperative sector. Director Jornales emphasized the importance of partnerships like this in advancing the sustainable development of cooperatives and the agricultural sector. The CDA team, including Mr. Rowan L. Delos Santos, Senior Cooperative Development Specialist (CDS) from the Cooperative Project and Development Assistance Section, along with CDS II Ms. Irish Joy I. Adrales and Field CDS II Mr. Gerlen Lagrosa, who is assigned in Ormoc, will oversee and ensure the successful implementation of the program activities.
The event highlighted the commitment of the partner cooperative, Fatima MPC, to support the beneficiary cooperative, ORSEPRO MPC in its efforts to enhance agricultural productivity and cooperative management. Ms. Nellen S. Albeos emphasized FATIMA MPC’s dedication to providing financial support and technical assistance, including expertise in sustainable farming, market access, and value chain development. Mr. Rafael Benjamin B. Omega III, on behalf of ORSEPRO MPC, expressed gratitude and affirmed the cooperative’s eagerness to actively participate in the joint venture, ensuring full implementation of the activities outlined in the agreement.
Also present at the signing was Mr. Miguel Mejia from the Filipino Ube House, a valued partner of FATIMA MPC in its agricultural initiatives. His presence underscored the broader network of support that the FATIMA MPC has cultivated, particularly in the cultivation of ube and other root crops. Mr. Mejia’s involvement in the partnership reinforces the importance of collaboration between different stakeholders to ensure the success of the agricultural venture. His company’s partnership with FATIMA MPC aligns with the goals of the “Koop Kapatid Program” to strengthen cooperatives and promote local agricultural development.
Also present at the MOA signing was the City Coop Officer of the Ormoc City Cooperative Development Council, who witnessed the signing of the MOA for the KOOP KAPATID PROGRAM, a key partner of the CDA in the cooperative development of cooperatives in Ormoc City.
The partnership between FATIMA MPC and ORSEPRO MPC represents a shared commitment to the long-term growth and sustainability of the cooperative sector. With the support of the CDA and strategic collaborations with partners like Filipino Ube House, both cooperatives are poised to make a significant impact on the agricultural landscape in Leyte. The MOA signing marks the beginning of a promising journey that will not only improve the livelihoods of the cooperatives’ members but also contribute to the overall development of the local economy through enhanced cooperative management and agricultural innovation.
Prepared by: COOPERATIVE PROJECT DEVELOPMENT AND ASSISTANCE SECTION (CPDAS)
