On September 28, 2024, cooperative leaders, government officials, and stakeholders from across Zamboanga Peninsula gathered at Manuel Resort in Piñan for a groundbreaking event—the Advocacy and Union Cooperative Cluster Cum Training of Trainers/CLAP MOA Signing. Spearheaded by the Cooperative Development Authority Regional Office IX (CDA IX), the event showcased how collaboration and education can drive the cooperative movement forward, especially in promoting sustainable development and inclusivity.
A Vision of Cooperative Unity
The event’s theme, centered on advocacy and education, was brought to life by the presence of Assistant Secretary Abdulsalam A. Guinomla, CDA Board Member III, and the Head of the Education, Advocacy, and Union Cooperatives Cluster. His participation, as Guest of Honor, highlighted the national government’s support for cooperative initiatives in the region.
In his inspirational message, Assistant Secretary Guinomla underscored the significance of unity among cooperatives, especially in addressing the challenges faced by various sectors. His words resonated with the cooperative leaders in attendance, many of whom are from grassroots organizations striving to make a tangible difference.
Advocating for Cooperative Education
The program opened with a warm welcome from CDA IX Regional Director Ruben L. Cunanan, JD, setting the tone for a day of meaningful discussions and collaborative efforts. Acknowledging the wide range of participants, from small community cooperatives to regional union representatives, CDS II Jun Paul Cuasito expressed CDA’s gratitude for the overwhelming support, which reflects the growing influence of cooperatives in the region.
Senior CDS Alvazer B. Duran followed with an in-depth rationale and overview of the Cooperative Development Authority Law Awareness Program (CLAP). Duran emphasized the program’s goal: ensuring that cooperatives not only comply with legal standards but also fully understand the rights and responsibilities that come with their status. He highlighted that education is at the heart of cooperative success, noting that informed cooperatives are more resilient and capable of serving their members effectively.
Historic MOA Signings
One of the key moments of the event was the signing of several Memoranda of Agreement (MOA), which established formal partnerships aimed at enhancing cooperative education and training. CDA IX joined forces with Jose Rizal Memorial State University (JRMSU) to implement the CLAP and Training of Trainers programs, signifying a strong commitment to developing local cooperative leaders.
The MOA signings were witnessed by top officials from both institutions, including JRMSU University President Maria Rio Abdon Naguit, PhD, and CDA IX Regional Director Ruben L. Cunanan, JD. Dr. Naguit highlighted the university’s dedication to providing educational resources and support to cooperatives, reiterating that empowering local communities is central to JRMSU’s mission.
Adding to the historic nature of the event was the signing of the MOA for the Koop Kapatid Program. This initiative pairs larger, well-established cooperatives with smaller, emerging ones, allowing for mentorship and shared resources. The Dapitan City Government Employees Association Multi-Purpose Cooperative, represented by Joseph Acabal, took on the role of “big brother” for the Dapitan City Farmers Federation Multi-Purpose Cooperative, symbolizing a new chapter of cooperative solidarity.
Recognizing Cooperative Unions
Further cementing the day’s achievements was the awarding of Certificates of Registration to three regional cooperative unions, acknowledging their commitment to cooperative values and goals. Zamboanga City Union of Cooperatives, represented by Wilbert Ignacio and Bernard Anthony Luna, Zamboanga del Norte Union of Cooperatives represented by Romeo Villejo, and Pagadian City Union of Cooperatives, represented by Loy Cañales and Teodora Rapadas, were recognized for their efforts in promoting unity and collaboration among local cooperatives.
Looking Ahead: New Guidelines and Challenges
As part of CDA’s ongoing efforts to improve the cooperative landscape, Senior CDS Alvazer B. Duran provided a comprehensive orientation on MC 2023-11, which details the revised guidelines for accrediting and monitoring Cooperative Training Providers (CTPros). This new policy is expected to standardize the quality of cooperative training programs and ensure that cooperatives receive up-to-date and relevant education.
The orientation sparked discussions during the open forum, with cooperative leaders raising questions about the implementation of the guidelines and their potential impact on smaller cooperatives. The forum provided a valuable opportunity for dialogue between CDA officials and cooperative representatives, fostering a sense of shared responsibility for the future of the cooperative movement.
A Day of Unity and Inspiration
As the day drew to a close, CDS II Mark Christian Hamoy delivered the closing remarks, reflecting on the event’s success and the promising future of cooperative advocacy in the region. The event, he noted, was more than just a series of MOA signings—it was a celebration of unity, education, and the shared belief that cooperatives can be powerful agents of change.
With strengthened partnerships and a renewed focus on cooperative education, the Advocacy and Union Cooperative Cluster Cum Training of Trainers/CLAP MOA Signing has set the stage for a brighter, more collaborative future for cooperatives in Zamboanga Peninsula. Through these efforts, CDA IX continues to champion the cooperative sector, empowering communities and fostering inclusive development across the region.
by: Mr. Jun Paul E. Cuasito, CDS II
