In an effort to reduce poverty in the Philippines, the Cooperative Development Authority (CDA) spearheaded a cooperative development project in 2024 that would provide financial support to micro and small cooperatives. Identified beneficiaries are cooperatives requiring support for business operations, both agricultural and non-agricultural production, additional capital, and other items related to their operations.

On April 4, 2024, at the QCX Events Center at the Quezon City Memorial Circle, Honorable Senator Christopher Lawrence “Bong” Go presented checks to the recipients of the Authority’s Special Assistance to Micro and Small Cooperatives through the “Malasakit sa Kooperatiba” initiative. This marked the launch of the program’s nationwide rollout.

In his welcoming remarks, CDA Chairperson Joseph “Joy” Encabo congratulated the Cooperative beneficiaries and expressed gratitude for Senator Christopher Lawrence “Bong” Go’s assistance, as well as Quezon City Mayor Josefina “Joy” Belmonte’s support and attendance at the check granting ceremony.

The City Mayor, expressed her unwavering support to the initiatives of the Authority and the Honorable Senator Go, for the growth and development of Cooperatives. She welcomed the Senator and expressed her gratitude that Quezon City is home to some of the qualifying recipients.

Twenty-three (23) qualified cooperatives from the different cities of the National Capital Region received a financial assistance amounting to Php 50,000.00 each. Senator Bong Go reminded them to use the assistance as “Dagdag puhunan”, and to adhere to the provisions stipulated in the Memorandum of Agreement between the CDA and the beneficiaries.

A ceremonial Signing of the MOA and awarding of check were the highlights of the program and the opportunity of the participants to snap photos with the CDA Officials and with the Guests of Honor.