by  Rechel Capili, CDS II

DAR and CDA Region VIII Empower ARBO Cooperatives Through the Successful 2026 Compliance Caravan Following the successful Preparatory and Coordination Meeting held last February 19, 2026, the Cooperative Development Authority (CDA) Region VIII, headed by the Regional Director Venus M. Jornales, and the Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR) Region VIII, led by Regional Director Atty. Robert Anthony Yu, successfully conducted the 2026 DAR-CDA Compliance Caravan on March 17, 2026, reaffirming their shared commitment to strengthen Agrarian Reform Beneficiary Organization (ARBO) cooperatives across the region. The activity served as the concrete implementation of the plans and strategies discussed during the earlier coordination meeting, where both agencies committed to ensuring that cooperatives begin the year strong, compliant, and fully guided on their regulatory responsibilities. Through the active support of DAR Region VIII, a total of 33 DAR-assisted cooperatives participated in the caravan and received direct technical assistance from both the CDA and DAR personnel.

A highlight of the activity was the presence of Assistant Secretary Luz H. Yringco, who delivered an inspirational message that deeply resonated with the participants. She motivated and encouraged the cooperators through her heartfelt words, as well as inspiring stories of success drawn from her own experience as a cooperator. Her message further strengthened the participants’ commitment and optimism in advancing their respective cooperatives. The activity also featured an onsite orientation and workshop on the Online Submission of Annual Mandatory Reports, where participating cooperatives were guided on proper filing procedures, reportorial requirements, and submission timelines for their CY 2025 Annual Mandatory Reports.

Hands-on assistance was also provided in the preparation and submission of reports to CDA. Cooperatives that successfully completed their requirements during the activity were duly issued their Certificates of Compliance (COC). The successful conduct of the Compliance Caravan demonstrated the strong and productive partnership between DAR and CDA Region VIII in promoting accountable governance, regulatory compliance, and sustainable development among ARBO cooperatives.

Both agencies remain steadfast in their mission of empowering cooperatives through responsive public service, strengthened collaboration, and timely interventions that contribute to the continued growth of the cooperative sector in Region VIII.

The CDA Region VIII extends its sincere appreciation to DAR Region VIII, its Provincial Offices, Assistant Secretary Luz H. Yringco, and all participating cooperatives for their invaluable support and cooperation in making the 2026 DAR-CDA Compliance Caravan a meaningful and successful undertaking.

As the region continues to strengthen cooperative development, we echo a resounding message of unity and progress: Sama-sama tungo sa mas matatag at maunlad na sektor ng kooperatiba!