MAKATI, Philippines. The Cooperative Development Authority and the University of Makati inked a historic partnership last January 23, 2024. University of Makati (UMak) is the first local university partner of the CDA that represent a shared commitment to advancing the cooperative development through education, research and community engagement. At the heart of this partnership lies a dedication to education as a catalyst for positive change. CDA and UMak will collaborate on the development of comprehensive programs tailored to the empowerment of cooperatives by enhancing the capabilities of their leaders and members that will fortify the cooperative principles and values. By combining the academic excellence and practical insights, UMak and CDA aims to explore innovative solutions to address the challenges faced by the cooperatives in the Philippines.

UMak Pres. Elyxzur Ramos and CDA Usec. Joseph B. Encabo expressed their eagerness for the success of this partnership. They emphasized the transformative potential of this collaboration, envisioning a future where the cooperatives, academe and CDA serves as pillars of the modern Cooperative Movement in the Philippines. Present also during the event are delegates from the CDA, Assistant Secretary Adbulsalam A. Guinomla, Board Member III and Head of the Education, Advocacy and Union Cooperatives Cluster, Deputy Administrator Atty. Leah B. Banagui-Han, Legal Affairs Service Head, Dir. Pedro T. Defensor, Jr., Regional Director of NCR Extension Office, Mr. Ryan Andrew F. Dela Luna, Cooperative Development Specialist of CDA-NCR Extension Office. For the University of Makati, Atty. Jewel D. Bulos, Vice President for Administration, Engineer Luke Ivan B. Moro, Vice President for Finance, Ms. Juvy B. Hermosura, University Secretary, Dr. Edita C. Bayona, Dean of College of Business and Financial Science/Chairperson of University of Makati Employees Multi-Purpose Cooperative and Mr. Jernell Sanchez, General Manager, University of Makati Employees Multi-Purpose Cooperative.