With the aim of reorienting Credit Surety Fund (CSF) Cooperatives on key issuances, operational practices, and the proper treatment of trust fund accounts, the Cooperative Development Authority (CDA) – Credit Surety Fund Service (CSFCS), through its Technical Assistance Division (TAD) and the Cooperative Development Authority – Cordillera Administrative Region Extension Office, successfully conducted a Refresher Course for cooperative members and prospective members of the Baguio City Credit Surety Fund Cooperative on March 4, 2026.

The activity was spearheaded by the CDA-CAR Extension Office under the leadership of Acting Regional Director Felicidad R. Cenon, PhD., and was held at the San Vicente – Baguio City Multipurpose Cooperative Function Hall, San Vicente, Kennon Road, Baguio City. The refresher course gathered representatives from member cooperatives and partner institutions to strengthen their understanding of the Credit Surety Fund program, its regulatory framework, and the operational standards necessary for the effective management of CSF cooperatives.

Through this initiative, the CDA continues to reinforce compliance with existing policies and enhance the capacity of CSF cooperatives to effectively implement the program in support of improved access to credit for micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs).

Providing the rationale for the activity was CSFCS Deputy Administrator, Atty. Elizabeth O. Batonan, who emphasized the importance of continuously strengthening the knowledge and operational readiness of CSF cooperatives to ensure compliance with regulatory standards and the effective implementation of the Credit Surety Fund (CSF) Program. The activity brought together representatives from member cooperatives and institutions interested in deepening their understanding of the CSF program and its regulatory framework.

The refresher course aimed to reinforce participants’ knowledge of the latest policies and guidelines governing Credit Surety Fund Cooperatives. Mr. Recto E. Transfiguracion, Chief of the Technical Assistance Division, discussed the salient features of the CSF Program, particularly its operational procedures and the roles and responsibilities of member institutions within a CSF Cooperative. His discussion highlighted the importance of collaborative governance, sound operational practices, and strict adherence to existing guidelines to ensure the sustainability of the program.

Meanwhile, Ms. Mary Grace I. Cinco, Supervising CDS of the Technical Assistance Division, presented the guidelines on the allocation, utilization, and accounting treatment of a portion of the Trust Income of CSF Cooperatives. She also provided relevant updates on the procedures for processing amendments to the Articles of Cooperation and By-Laws of CSF Cooperatives, ensuring that participating institutions remain compliant with current regulatory requirements.

Member cooperatives were further oriented on the procedures for handling CSF accounts by the Land Bank of the Philippines through its Trust Banking Group. Ms. Isabelita R. Tejerero, Senior Trust Management Officer from the Trust Sales and Accounts Management Department, discussed account management procedures, including the treatment of additional contributions or investments to the fund, withdrawals, and the updating of documentary requirements and financial statements. She also provided an in-depth explanation of how trust funds are managed by the Land Bank of the Philippines, giving participants a clearer understanding of the processes involved in safeguarding and administering the Credit Surety Fund. Her presentation also highlighted potential investment opportunities available to cooperatives and their officers.

Through the activity, the CDA sought to ensure that participating cooperatives remain aligned with existing regulations and best practices in implementing the CSF program. The session also served as an interactive platform where participants were able to raise questions, clarify operational concerns, and share experiences related to the implementation of the CSF program within their respective organizations.

The refresher course forms part of the continuing technical assistance initiatives of the CDA to strengthen the operational capacity and governance of Credit Surety Fund Cooperatives. By enhancing the knowledge and competencies of cooperative leaders and members, the activity contributes to the effective implementation of the CSF program, which aims to provide an alternative mechanism to access credit for micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) through cooperative-based credit guarantee mechanisms.

Through sustained capacity-building efforts and collaborative engagement among stakeholders, the CDA continues to promote a stronger and more responsive Credit Surety Fund system that supports local economic development and empowers cooperatives across the region. – Maku