by IRISH JOY I. ADRALES, CDS II and  ROWAN L. DELOS SANTOS, CPDAS SR. CDS, CPDAS

Saint Bernard, Southern Leyte – In a significant step toward strengthening the cooperative movement through collaboration and shared growth, the Saint Bernard Multipurpose Cooperative (SBMPC) and the Carnaga Multipurpose Cooperative (CMPC) formally sealed their partnership through the signing of a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) under the Koop Kapatid Program on July
31, 2026, in Saint Bernard, Southern Leyte. The partnership embodies the cooperative principle of “Cooperation Among Cooperatives,” where established cooperatives extend mentorship, technical assistance, and developmental support to emerging cooperatives to promote sustainable growth and good governance. The signed agreement formalizes a three-year
partnership between Saint Bernard Multipurpose Cooperative as the Partner Cooperative and Carnaga Multipurpose Cooperative as the Beneficiary Cooperative. Through the program, the partner cooperative commits to providing financial assistance, educational and capacity-building support, and information technology assistance, including the provision of computer units, to help strengthen the beneficiary cooperative’s governance, management, and operations.

In his message, Goldwyn A. Arevalo, Chairperson of Saint Bernard Multipurpose Cooperative, underscored the importance of unity and shared responsibility in building stronger cooperatives. “Together, let us prove that through cooperation, transparency, accountability, and good governance, no cooperative is too small to succeed, and no challenge is too great to overcome.” His inspiring message reflected the true spirit of the Koop Kapatid Program—where stronger cooperatives willingly share their knowledge, experience, and resources to help fellow cooperatives thrive, creating a stronger and more resilient cooperative sector. Expressing heartfelt gratitude on behalf of the beneficiary cooperative, Lucileto P. Gonzales, Chairperson of Carnaga Multipurpose Cooperative, thanked Saint Bernard Multipurpose Cooperative for itsgenerosity, trust, and willingness to extend assistance. He conveyed the cooperative’s appreciation for choosing to become their partner and mentor, noting that the support they will receive serves as both an opportunity and an inspiration to further strengthen their organization for the benefit of their members and community.

As part of the program, Saint Bernard Multipurpose Cooperative also received a Plaque of Recognition for its invaluable contribution in empowering micro and small cooperatives for increased participation in the Cooperative Development Fund (CSF). The recognition highlighted the cooperative’s commitment to fostering sustainable development and exemplifying the spirit of cooperation among cooperatives. Ms. Ivy Avestruz and Mr. Jonel Cerbito discussed the Credit Surety Fund (CSF) Program, highlighting its role as an alternative credit enhancement facility that enables cooperatives and MSMEs to access bank financing through surety cover, thereby promoting financial inclusion and business growth. Meanwhile, CDA Region VIII Regional Director Venus M. Jornales emphasized that the Koop Kapatid Program is far more than a financial assistance initiative. She explained that the program is neither a dole-out nor an act of charity, but rather a developmental intervention designed to equip micro and small cooperatives with the necessary tools, knowledge, and guidance to become self-reliant and sustainable institutions. Director Jornales stressed that through the Koop Kapatid Program, the Cooperative Development Authority continues to demonstrate its commitment not only as a regulatory agency but also as a development partner dedicated to building resilient, competitive, and sustainable cooperatives. She also expressed her sincere appreciation to Saint Bernard Multipurpose Cooperative for embracing the cooperative value of helping fellow cooperatives grow, recognizing its willingness to mentor and support Carnaga Multipurpose Cooperative as an excellent example of genuine cooperative solidarity.

The MOA signing marks not merely the beginning of a formal partnership but the start of a shared commitment to empowering cooperatives through collaboration, mentorship, and mutual support. As both cooperatives embark on this journey together, they demonstrate that when cooperatives work hand in hand, they create stronger organizations, uplift communities, and contribute to a more inclusive and sustainable cooperative movement in Eastern Visayas.