PAGADIAN CITY | The Cooperative Development Authority (CDA) Region IX Extension Office was abuzz with excitement as we welcomed the newly appointed CDA Administrator, Assistant Secretary Santiago “Santi” S. Lim. The visit, which took place recently on May 28, 2024, marked a significant milestone for the cooperative sector in the region.
Assistant Secretary Lim, who has a rich background in cooperative development and finance (formerly as Chief Operating Officer, DTI Small Business Corporation), embarked on a comprehensive tour of the extension office. He engaged in productive discussion with the dedicated employees, offering insights and exploring strategies to bolster the cooperative movement in the area.
A key part of his visit was the meeting with the local chief executives in Pagadian City. These discussions focused on fostering a collaborative environment between the government and cooperatives, aiming to enhance the socio-economic well-being of the community.
*Hon. Samuel “Sammy” S. Co – City Mayor of Pagadian; and
*Hon. Bienvenido “Jun” L. Ebarle – Board Member, 1st District, Zamboanga del Sur.
The highlight of the visit was Assistant Secretary Lim’s interaction with the Regional Cluster Organization (RCO) officers and members of various cooperatives. He listened attentively to their experiences and challenges, reaffirming the CDA’s commitment to providing support and resources for sustainable growth.
Assistant Secretary Lim’s visit to the CDA Region IX Extension Office not only strengthened the bond between the authority and the cooperatives but also set a positive tone for future endeavors. His hands-on approach and willingness to engage at the grassroots level have been widely appreciated, signaling a bright future for cooperatives under his leadership.
By Ryan C. Amilhussin, CDS II
