CDA Conducts Ceremonial Awarding of Malasakit sa Kooperatiba (Batch 3) Financial Assistance for Luzon

The Cooperative Development Authority-NCR (CDA-NCR) successfully held the Ceremonial Awarding of the Malasakit sa Kooperatiba Financial Assistance for Luzon on December 5, 2025, at the Quezon City District 2 Gymnasium, MRB Compound, Pilot Drive, Barangay Commonwealth, Quezon City. The activity forms part of the CDA’s commitment to strengthen and empower cooperatives as vital partners in national development.

Regional Director (NCREO) Pedro T. Defensor, Jr. welcomed the participants by emphasizing the enduring role of cooperatives in promoting inclusive economic growth. He underscored the CDA’s mission to support cooperatives not only through regulation but by fostering an enabling environment where they can flourish. He also acknowledged the unity of government, cooperative leaders, and community advocates in ensuring that programs like Malasakit sa Kooperatiba remain responsive to the needs of cooperative members.

The program convened distinguished national and local government leaders, including Senator Christopher “Bong” Go who graced the ceremony with his presence and delivered a message of support, highlighting the importance of empowering cooperatives to improve livelihoods and build resilient communities. Quezon City District 2 Councilor Miguel F. Belmonte welcomed attendees on behalf of the City Government and affirmed Quezon City’s continuous support for cooperative development.

Representing the CDA Central Office were Assistant Secretary Luz H. Yringco, Assistant Secretary Vergel M. Hilario, and Assistant Secretary Myrla B. Paradillo, who collectively emphasized the significance of the Malasakit sa Kooperatiba Program as a key platform for accessible financial assistance that sustains operations, enhances services, and deepens socio-economic impact across Luzon.

Also in attendance were CDA regional officials who played vital roles in identifying beneficiaries and facilitating efficient program rollout:

1. Regional Director (NCREO) – Pedro T. Defensor, Jr.
2. Regional Director (Region I) – Atty. Frederick Robles
3. Acting Assistant Regional Director (Region 4B) – Atty. Richard Ilagan
4. Acting Regional Director (CAR) – Felicidad R. Cenon
5. Assistant Regional Director (CAR) – Engr. Zaldy G. Bermejo

Assistant Secretary Luz H. Yringco delivered a keynote message centered on the importance of financial literacy in cooperative growth. She emphasized that while financial assistance provides necessary capital, financial literacy equips cooperatives with the capability to manage resources wisely, enhance transparency, and strengthen long-term sustainability. She encouraged leaders to invest in continuous learning, adopt sound financial practices, and cultivate a culture of accountability to ensure that the benefits of the Malasakit Program translate into resilient and future-ready organizations.

Messages of Appreciation from Beneficiary Cooperatives

Regional representatives from Luzon expressed gratitude on behalf of their cooperatives:

Region I – Mr. Emerson Pado, Chairperson of Pindangan Estate MPC, thanked the CDA for the timely support that will allow their cooperative to expand services to farmer-members.

Region II – Ms. Annabelle Libao, Chairperson of Minagbag Overseas Workers MPC, acknowledged how the assistance strengthens programs for OFW families and reintegration initiatives.

Region III – Mr. Jaywilson M. Basilio, Chairperson of Cama Juan MPC, highlighted that the aid will support livelihood projects and member capacity-building.

Region IV-A – Ms. Lucena Mercado of San Francisco Water Service Cooperative, expressed gratitude for the opportunity to enhance community water service operations.

Region IV-B – Ms. Marife V. De Guzman, BOD Member of Agkawayan Women’s Consumer Cooperative, conveyed appreciation for the trust given to women-led cooperatives in remote communities.

Region V – Mr. Gaspar A. Sandig, representative of Pinanaan Small Coconut Farmers Agriculture Cooperative, committed to using the assistance to uplift coconut farmers and improve value-chain activities.

CAR – Mr. Ricardo Machanum of Paracelis Transport Cooperative, thanked the CDA for supporting transport cooperatives that provide essential mobility services in upland communities.

NCR – Ms. Lucy Furo, Chairperson of Sulong Negosyo at Pangkabuhayn Credit Cooperative, acknowledged the CDA for enabling urban cooperatives to enhance financial services for marginalized sectors.

Their collective messages reflected appreciation for the government’s continued support and optimism for cooperative-driven community development.

CAR Acting Regional Director Felicidad R. Cenon, delivered the closing message, reiterating the CDA’s commitment to sustaining partnerships that uplift the cooperative sector. She emphasized that the success of the Malasakit sa Kooperatiba Program is a shared effort built on trust, collaboration, and the cooperative spirit of bayanihan. She encouraged all beneficiaries to maximize the assistance, uphold good governance, and continue serving their communities with integrity.

Prepared by:

FRANZ JERALD D. CARPIO

CDS II – CPDAS