The first-ever summit for cooperative development officers, cooperative training providers and cooperative councils took place on January 16 and 17, 2025 marking a significant milestone in fostering collaboration and innovation for the good of the cooperative sector. Held at the 3rd Floor PCL Building, Wangal, La Trinidad, Benguet, the event brought together key stakeholders from across the cooperative ecosystem to share insights, discuss challenges, and chart a path for the future.
The summit aimed to strengthen the capacity of cooperative institutions by enhancing training programs, improving governance, and fostering partnerships. By uniting cooperative leaders, trainers, and policymakers, the event underscored the importance of a unified approach to addressing pressing challenges and seizing emerging opportunities in the sector.
An inspirational message from CDA ASec. Abdulsallam Guinomla was delivered by Ms. Sally Triñanes, Supervising CDS of the Supervisory and Examination Division during the 1st day while ASec. Santiago S. Lim, CDA Administrator, delivered his solidarity message on the 2nd day. In his message, ASec. Lim highlighted on manifestation of the power of collaboration among cooperatives, stakeholders, and advocates united by a common vision of progress and sustainability. He said that the summit is an excellent platform for sharing best practices, fostering innovation, and aligning our strategies to empower cooperatives as drivers of economic growth, social equity, and community resilience. He included in his speech that the synergy between the CDA, CDCs, CDOs, and CTPros highlights the importance of a united approach in delivering quality education and capacity- building initiatives to cooperatives across the region. As a Lion’s Club officer, he was reminded of the Lions Club marker at Kennon Road, a symbol of service, unity, and resilience that has become an iconic tourism landmark in Baguio City. More than a physical marker, it reacts the enduring spirit of organizations like the Lions Club, whose efforts have uplifted lives and communities —a vision that aligns with the very foundation of cooperatives. He also reminded the participants that January also brings us closer to a historic celebration: the International Year of Cooperatives 2025, with the inspiring theme “Cooperatives Build a Better World.” He then ended his speech with a quote from Melvin Jones who said, “You can’t get very far until you start doing something for somebody else,”.
Speakers from the CDA Head Office and DILG CAR were also invited to discussed a range of topics. Ms. Leighlany T. Cariaso, Division Chief for CRITD discussed the Role of CDCs, CDA Gawad Parangal and Trainings for Cooperative Development. RA 11765 and its IRR was discussed by Deputy Administrator for Credit Surety Fund Services, Atty. Elizabeth O. Batonan, while Merger and Consolidation and Mandatory Report Submission was discussed by Mr. Innocencio Malapit and Ms. Sally Triñanes respectively.
The Creation of Cooperative Development Officer as a mandatory position in the municipality, city and provincial levels under RA 11535 was discussed thoroughly by Mr. Kylee Russel R. Bognadon, LGOO III of DILG on the 2nd day of the summit.
A planning- workshops gave the participants an avenue to build sustainable partnerships between training providers, Cooperative Development Officers and Cooperative Councils. Participants were able to identify and plan their activities in line with the CDA’s activity and programs.
Participants also committed to holding regular summits to sustain momentum and monitor progress.
The inaugural summit represents a significant step forward in strengthening the cooperative movement. By fostering collaboration among, cooperative development officers, cooperative training providers and cooperative councils, the event has laid the groundwork for a more resilient and inclusive cooperative sector. As stakeholders continue to build on the outcomes of this landmark gathering, the future of cooperatives looks brighter than ever.
