Ms. Rosalie Valencia is a dedicated leader, a working wife, and a mother of three who has made remarkable contributions to the cooperative sector. As the General Manager of VALDECO, a billion-peso multi-purpose cooperative in Valenzuela City, she has demonstrated exceptional leadership and innovation.

One of her most notable achievements is leading VALDECO to billionaire status, a testament to her strategic vision and management skills. Under her leadership, she developed a range of financial products designed to instill a habit of saving among members, ensuring their financial preparedness for the future. These products include the Emergency Fund Deposit, Future Savings, Power Savings, Retirement Savings, and Family Savings Deposit.

During the pandemic, Ms. Rosalie showed courage and initiative by spearheading critical programs that supported both VALDECO members and the community. Through a partnership with the local government, she implemented the Market on Wheels program, bringing market vendors and their products to different barangays, especially those under lockdown. She also introduced Oplan Isda in collaboration with BFAR, delivering one ton of Bangus and Tilapia twice a week for over a year—providing livelihood opportunities for members whose businesses were affected by the crisis.

Her leadership extends beyond financial programs. In 2016, she facilitated the purchase of an old wet and dry market and successfully transformed it into a two-story, 1,760-square-meter facility. Today, this building houses VALDECO’s main office while still maintaining a market on the ground floor, serving the needs of the community. Additionally, she positioned VALDECO as a pioneer in financial technology by making it the first cooperative in Valenzuela to own an ATM and the first to utilize a cloud-based core banking system.

Beyond VALDECO, Rosalie plays a significant role in cooperative federations. She currently serves as a Board Member of NATCCO and NAMVESCCO, the Chairperson of the Valenzuela Cooperative Development Council, and the BOT Treasurer of the National Pharmaceutical Foundation. She is also an active member of the Trinity Neighborhood Church.

Ms. Rosalie Valencia’s leadership is deeply rooted in her commitment to balancing family, work, and worship—an inspiring testament to her unwavering dedication to service, innovation, and community development

Women leaders have made significant contributions to society and are increasingly visible in a variety of fields, including politics and business. The rise of women to leadership positions challenges assumptions about gender and offers a range of perspectives that can enhance decision-making and foster innovation. One of the distinguished female leaders is Ms. Yolanda C. Del Castillo who has demonstrated vision, dedication, and an unwavering commitment to community development, making her an exceptional leader in the cooperative movement. Her notable contributions had a significant impact on the cooperative business environment in the City of Marikina and all other areas of the country. 

Graduating with a Bachelor of Science in Commerce major in Accounting from the Polytechnic University of the Philippines in 1979 provided her with the essential skills for her future roles. She was prepared for her subsequent leadership positions by her early involvement with Concepcion Vendors Development Cooperative as part of the Audit Committee, from 1986-1987. She then became one of the Board of Directors & Education Committee from 1988 -1995. Her duties and responsibilities with CVDC along with her active participation with other Cooperatives in the country have shaped her leadership skills to be serving the Cooperative as a General Manager from 2013 up to the present. Having a thorough comprehension of cooperative principles, managerial skills, and an unwavering commitment to the welfare of the members are her advantages for this leadership role. 

In addition to CVDC, Del Castillo has made significant contributions to national cooperative organizations. Her position as Chairperson of the National Cooperative Marketing Federation’s (NCMF) Audit Committee demonstrates her commitment to upholding financial integrity in the broader cooperative sector. Her duties as a member of the Board of Directors to the National Market Vendors Confederation Of Cooperative (NAMVESCCO), Philac Service Cooperative, and Cooperative Union of Marikina City (CUMC), and an authorized representative to several organizations, such as the Nueva Segovia Consortium of Cooperatives (NSCC), One Cooperative Bank (OCB), and the National Confederation of Cooperatives (NATCCO), demonstrate her influence across multiple cooperative networks. These positions illustrate a commitment to collaboration and networking within the cooperative movement. 

By being a member of the Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry – New Marikina, she displays an appreciation of the larger economy and the significance of collaboration between cooperatives and other business entities. From 2021 to 2023, she led consultations on the various issues affecting cooperatives in the cities of Marikina, Quezon City, Pasig, Mandaluyong, and San Juan as the East Sector’s representative to the Regional Clustered Organization-Finance Cluster.

As the former auditor of Marikina City Cooperative Development Council (MCCDC), she was tasked to assist in the transition of Marikina City Credit Surety Fund to Marikina Credit Surety Fund Cooperative by helping in the auditing of financial records and seeking assistance from the Local Government to donate the P3 million fund for the reorganized Marikina City Credit Surety Fund Cooperative.

Because of her extensive experience and commitment, leaders like Yolanda del Castillo play an important role in helping cooperatives deal with changes like globalization, technological advancements, and growing competition.  She believes that the most beneficial contribution one can make to the cooperative sector is to share one’s time, skills, and treasures with others. This can be done by actively participating in union, federation, and local government activities, and especially with CDA’s programs. Collaboration and active participation demonstrate that the willingness to assist others, not the cooperative’s size, is what matters. She also acknowledges the efforts and contributions of her fellow leaders and the members of CVDC for reaching 44 years of service and operations. Her legacy is one of dedicated service, fostering the values of cooperation and furthering the growth and prosperity of the Philippine cooperative sector.  Her work serves as an example of the huge effect that one individual can have on a community and a nation, inspiring women, and future generations of cooperative leaders.

Ms. Ethel Soriano is a trailblazing leader and the third woman to serve as Chairperson of the PECCI Multipurpose Cooperative. Her dedication, strategic vision, and passion for service have been instrumental in the cooperative’s success over the past three years. Her journey in PECCI began as Chairperson of the Mediation and Conciliation Committee. Through hard work and commitment, she progressed to roles in the Education and Training Committee, served as a Credit Committee Officer, Board Secretary, Board Member, Vice- Chairperson, and ultimately, Chairperson of the Board of Directors.

Under her leadership, PECCI achieved unprecedented growth, recording consecutive all-time highs in loan releases and net surpluses in 2023 and 2024. Her commitment to cooperative values has significantly strengthened member engagement, with patronage increasing from 51% in 2022 to 68% in 2024—demonstrating the trust and confidence she inspires. A strong advocate of servant leadership, Ethel fosters a culture of collaboration, respect, and shared responsibility. She champions teamwork and encourages individuals to take initiative, grow, and contribute meaningfully to both the organization and society. Since assuming the role of Chairperson, her mantra, “Kayang-kaya basta sama-sama” (Together, we can achieve anything), has united officers, management, and staff, instilling resilience and a positive outlook.

Ms. Ethel Soriano is also a firm believer in the power of women as catalysts for change and progress. Committed to gender inclusivity, she has actively promoted the appointment of women in  leadership roles within PECCI, resulting in 19 women now serving in various committees. An awardee in the 2024 Asia’s Pinnacle Awards for “Asia’s Game Changer in Collaborative Community Development”, Ethel’s leadership journey is a testament to perseverance, passion, and the belief that meaningful change starts with people. She leads with integrity, empowerment, and an unwavering dedication to service—an inspiring role model for women and leaders alike.

Ms. ANNABELLE  ESPINO, a passionate leader in the cooperative movement, currently serves as the Chairperson of the Quezon City Union of Cooperatives (QCUC). With a deep commitment to cooperative values and principles, she has devoted her career to empowering members and driving sustainable practices.

Her academic achievements include a Cum Laude distinction in Bachelor of Science in Business Administration, Major in Accounting. Prior to her involvement in the cooperative sector, she gained valuable experience as a Certified Public Accountant, utilizing her financial expertise in the banking industry to benefit community-centric organizations.

Ms. Annabelle Espino became engaged in the cooperative movement due to her desire for social change and community empowerment, recognizing the potential of cooperatives to provide economic opportunities and enhance community resilience.

Ms. Annabelle Espino embarked on her cooperative journey in 2008, motivated by a vision for uplifting the members’ quality of life and inclusive community development. Throughout her leadership, she faced and overcame numerous challenges, particularly as a woman leader in a traditionally male-dominated environment. Her resilience and unwavering commitment to her principles have allowed her to navigate these challenges effectively.

Her journey is marked by significant accomplishments including the transformation of the Quezon City Union of Cooperatives (QCUC) into a leading union in the National Capital Region. Under her leadership, QCUC was able to acquire its first union-owned office building to house all its operations and activities. She has gained the trust of local primary cooperatives resulting in a remarkable increase in QCUC’s membership. A cornerstone of Ms. Annabelle Espino’s leadership philosophy is her unwavering dedication to training and education. Being a CDA Certified Accredited Trainer, she understands that knowledgeable members are the backbone of a successful cooperative. She has fostered a culture that emphasizes the importance of education while anchoring this culture on core cooperative values and principles. Her advocacy for training has led to the organization of various in and out of the country educational programs and workshops which enhance members’ skills and fostering a deeper understanding of cooperative operations.

Under her inspiring leadership, the Union has seen notable growth in both membership and financial stability. She spearheaded initiatives which focus on youth engagement, eco-friendly practices, digitalization efforts, and gender-equality programs ensuring that cooperatives thrive both economically and socially. Her commitment to nurturing a cooperative culture and developing human capital has profoundly impacted the lives of its members, empowering them to take active leadership roles and participate fully in decision-making processes.

As an ardent advocate for gender-equality and women empowerment, Ms. Annabelle Espino actively promotes initiatives that enhance the role of women within the cooperative sector and the broader community. Her engagement extends to several significant organizations, where she holds the following positions:

• Chairperson, QC Cooperative Development Council
• Vice President – Human Services Cluster, RCO-NCR
• Vice President – Education, Advocacy, and Union Cluster (EAU), NCR-RCO
• Vice Chairperson, Union of Metro Manila Cooperatives (UMMC)
• Chairperson, Training, Education, Research, and Development Committee (TERD), UMMC
• Vice Chairperson, QC Credit Surety Fund Cooperative
• Vice Chairperson, Aimstaff MPC Board of Directors
• Chairperson, Education Committee – Aimstaff MPC

Through these roles, she has cultivated partnerships with various organizations, government agencies, and community groups to champion efforts toward sustainable development and social responsibility.

Looking ahead, Ms. Annabelle Espino envisions a Union that not only retains its leadership position in the region but also serves as a beacon for other organizations in promoting sustainability, inclusion, and social equity. She emphasizes the importance of continuous education and empowerment for all members, believing that developing knowledge and skills is essential for fostering a thriving cooperative community anchored on cooperative principles.

Her advice to aspiring women leaders and cooperative members is compelling: “Embrace your unique strengths, seek opportunities for growth, and never underestimate the impact of collaboration. Together, we can build a more equitable and resilient future for all.”

Through her dedicated efforts and visionary leadership, Ms. Annabelle Espino continues to inspire and pave the way for the next generation in the cooperative movement.

Women Empowerment: A Pillar of Exceptional Leadership

For over 15 years Ms. Lilian Castelo has exemplified what it meant to be a true leader. As the General Manager of the San Isidro Labrador Parish Multi-Purpose Cooperative (SILPMPC), she has steered the organization with unwavering dedication, strategic decision-making, and a heart that nurtures both her colleagues and members—just like a mother guiding her family toward success. Her leadership is not just about managing operations; it is about inspiring transformation, fostering resilience, and creating a culture of excellence.

 

Ms. Lilian Castelo has been a dedicated leader in faith-based and Cooperative organizations for nearly three decades. Since 1995, she has served as Director and member of the Catholic Women’s League (CWL) and contributed to Pamparokyang Sentro ng Katekesis (PASKA), the Knights of Columbus (KC), and the San Isidro Labrador Parish Multi-Purpose Cooperative (SILPMPC.)

Starting as a member of the Audit Committee, she rose to become the General Manager of SILPMPC. Beyond the cooperative, she has held key positions including Board Member of the Union of Catholic Church-Based Cooperatives (UCC), Audit Committee member of the National Cooperative Marketing Federation (NCMF), and Treasurer and Auditor for the Valenzuela Cooperative Development Council (VCDC). She also served as Board of Director and is currently a Board Trustee for the Valenzuela Cooperative Manager’s Club (VCMC).

Her leadership reflects a strong commitment to governance, financial stewardship and community development, reinforcing her impact on the cooperative sector.

Empowering women is about more than just granting opportunities—it is about instilling the confidence to lead, the strength to be self-reliant, and the wisdom to make impactful decisions. When women are empowered, they drive progress, innovation, and sustainable success. Ms. Castelo embodies this principle, cultivating a work environment where productivity thrives, teamwork flourishes, and the cooperative serves as a beacon of hope for its members and the community. The remarkable achievements of SILPMPC under her leadership are a testament to her vision and determination. She has ensured full compliance with all regulatory requirements, leading the cooperative to prestigious recognition. One of the most significant milestones during her tenure was achieving a flawless record with the Cooperative Development Authority—an accomplishment that speak volumes about her commitment to integrity and excellence. Additionally, under her guidance, SILPMPC attained the highest net worth growth in fiscal years 2016 and 2017, reinforcing its financial strength and sustainability.

True leadership is tested in times of crisis, and during the COVID-19 pandemic, Ms. Castelo proved that SILPMPC was not just an organization, but a lifeline for the community. In recognition of its unwavering commitment to service, the cooperative was honored as the “Community Service Champion during the Pandemic.” Despite the global turmoil, SILPMPC remained fully operational, extending crucial support through financial aid to the City Government of Valenzuela for COVID-19 relief efforts, distributing essential supplies such as rice and medicines to members, assisting bereaved families, and contributing personal protective equipment for healthcare workers. This unwavering dedication showcased the spirit of cooperativism at its finest.

Beyond the accolades and achievements, Ms. Lilian Castelo’s true legacy lies in her ability to build strong, lasting relationships with stakeholders. By working hand in hand with the Board of Directors, committees, and management staff, she has fostered a culture of collaboration, resilience, and shared success. She understands that true leadership is not about individual power but about empowering others. Her advocacy for financial literacy has transformed the lives of many, guiding members to save wisely, invest in their future, and secure their financial well-being through insurance. Ms. Lilian Castelo’s journey is a powerful testament to the impact of women in leadership. She is not just a manager—she is a trailblazer, a mentor, and a force of change. Her story is one that inspires, her leadership is one that empowers, and her legacy is one that will shape the cooperative and the community for generations to come.

Teresa Paula “Teepee” Gile

Co-Founder and CEO, Red Root Artists Cooperative

Teresa Paula “Teepee” Gile is a graduate of College of Fine Arts, majoring in Visual Communication from the University of the Philippines. She is the co-founder, CEO, and Creative Director of Red Root Artists Cooperative, the Philippines’ first artists’ cooperative. She also co-founded and serves as Vice-Chairperson of Youth Connect Cooperative, a pioneering virtual event cooperative and one of the global winners of the International Cooperative Alliance’s Replication Project in 2020.

Since 2015, Gile has served as Board Secretary of the Federation for Peoples Sustainable Cooperative, advocating for sustainable development in cooperative practices.

As a key figure in cultural preservation, she has led the restoration and modernization of national landmarks, including the Museum of Philippine Economic History, the Museum of Philippine Political History, and several other national museums. With over 16 years of experience, Gile has successfully led national government projects and collaborated with multinational brands in virtual events, video production, graphic design, and programming.

Her commitment to cooperative development extends globally. During the pandemic, she served as a local partner facilitator of the Platform Cooperatives Now! course in the Philippines. She has also been invited as a resource speaker in Indonesia, India, Korea, Malaysia, and India, sharing insights on youth, women, and technology.

Under her leadership, Red Root Artists Cooperative was recently recognized by Inquirer as one of the Top 5 Philippines Growth Champions for 2025 and named a National Finalist and Regional Winner in the DOST SETUP Industry 4.0 Champion of Innovation Award.

Gile is currently mentoring multimedia artists, students, and youth cooperators to become humanitarians and conscientious practitioners in the creative industry.

Eden A. Azarcon, RND,MPH

A Beacon of Leadership in the Cooperative Movement

Eden A. Azarcon’s journey in the cooperative movement spans over 15 transformative years, distinguished by her unwavering dedication, visionary leadership, and deep-rooted passion for community service.

As a registered dietitian with a Master’s in Public Health, Eden skillfully integrates her professional expertise with her commitment to social upliftment. She began her cooperative career as a credit committee member and later served as Vice-Chairperson for eight years, establishing a solid foundation for her subsequent leadership roles.

In 2020, amidst the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic and a transitional period between the “Solid San Juan” and “ Makabagong San Juan” administrations, Eden stepped up as Chairperson of the San Juan City Employees Multipurpose Cooperative (SJCEMPC) and likewise became the City Cooperative and Development Council Chairperson(2022-2024). Under her guidance, the cooperative not only weathered turbulent times but also introduced an array of innovative services. These included the welcoming environment of **Koop Kantina**, the practical convenience of the **Koop Store**, and a diverse suite of loans—regular, special, travel, education, and health emergency loans, complemented with insurance. These initiatives were crucial in boosting income generation for the community while ensuring regulatory compliance, as SJCEMPC stands out as one of the few cooperatives in San Juan consistently meeting CDA requirements.  

A champion of continuous learning and empowerment, Eden inspires SJCEMPC officers and members to engage in professional development through seminars and updates, enabling them to govern with excellence. Under her leadership, outreach programs have significantly expanded, increasing the diversity of beneficiaries and forging successful collaborations with both government and non-government organizations to amplify the cooperative’s impact.

Eden’s commitment extends beyond her cooperative leadership. As an active member of the liturgical committee at Feast Robinson Magnolia Church, she participates faithfully in Sunday services. Additionally, she serves on the Board of Directors for Public Health of the Nutritionist Dietitians of the Philippines, highlighting her dedication to both spiritual and nutritional well-being in the community. While holding a position of Housing & Homesite Regulation Officer–V at the City Government of San Juan’s Urban Poor Affairs Office (UPAO), Eden leverages her expertise in public health. Simultaneously, she is detailed at the City Health Office as a Nutrition Educator, where she implements essential nutrition education programs in barangays and monitors school nutrition initiatives. This dual focus allows her to ensure that healthy practices and nutrition knowledge reach every corner of the community, reflecting her unwavering commitment to improving public outcomes.

Eden also enriches the academic field as an Associate Professor at the University of the East Manila, teaching after office hours and on weekends. She is currently working on her Ph.D. dissertation in Educational Management at PUP Graduate School, exemplifying her relentless pursuit of academic and professional excellence.

Her remarkable leadership journey has earned her and SJCEMPC recognition through numerous awards, including the **Gawad Parangal** from the CDA, and positioned SJCEMPC as a key member of the **CUMC** (Cooperative Union of Mandaluyong City) and **NATCCO** (National Confederation of Cooperatives) networks. Under her stewardship, a fully staffed, spacious office was established with the support of Hon. Mayor Francis M. Zamora, alongside a canteen and store compliant with Department of Labor and Employment regulations.

At the core of Eden’s multifaceted career is a leadership philosophy rooted in high moral values, integrity, compassion, and an unwavering dedication to helping others. Alongside her numerous professional and community endeavors, she treasures a fulfilling family life with her husband, Enrique Azarcon, and their three children— a balance exemplifying her commitment to nurturing both community and family.

 Eden A. Azarcon’s story is one of resilience, innovation, and service—a beacon of inspiration for cooperative members and community leaders alike.

Ms. Rose Dimaculangan Cañadido

PFCCO-NCR

A wife, mother of three children, recipient of the 2025 Global Women Leadership Network (GWLN) Award Scholarship, a member of the Technical Working Group in enhancing audit tools, GAD tools, and IRR on training requirements for cooperatives, and Assistant General Manager of PFCCO-NCR. A real superwoman, she ensured she balanced her life between family and work.

Ms. Rose was exposed to the cooperative world way back on November 16, 1994 when she became a member of Lingap Credit Cooperative. Being a leader at heart, she became involved in different organizations to which the primary cooperative is affiliated. These are just some of the positions she was appointed to: Treasurer, NCDC; Chairperson, RCDC-NCR; Cooperative Sector Representative, Quezon City (LGU); Vice-Chairperson, Quezon City Cooperative Development Council (CDC); Mediation and Conciliation Officer, PFC; and Audit Committee Officer in PFCCO-National.

Her dedication to work in the cooperative is limitless. She has been involved with PFCCO-NCR for almost 29 years where she started as the secretary for the Quezon City Chapter, then as an officer for the Education and Training Committee and the Credit Committee, and was later appointed as Chairperson for the QC Chapter in the Federation. She was appointed as Gender and Development (GAD) Focal Person and at the same time appointed as Unit Head of Consultancy, Supervision, Advocacy, and Special Projects. She also became Director for Women and currently, she is appointed as the Assistant General Manager of PFCCO-NCR.

Aside from her advocacy for the youth and climate change, her concern for the women’s group, she aims to institutionalize ‘sister society’ for every primary member (of the Federation) to build political empowerment and business development services for the economic growth of women’s cooperatives.

As a way to honor and glorify God in her apostolate mission, she guides and assists other cooperatives in their compliance and in recording financial transactions – bookkeeping.

 

Ms. Edith Santiago was a former councilor in Pasig City. During her term, she was the Chairperson of the Committee on Senior Citizen Affairs and the Chairperson of the Committee on Environmental Protection and Human Ecology in the city. She’s known for being an environmentalist with the influence and encouragement of her late husband, Mr. Alejandro Santiago. Like him, she started a voluntary organization group of women, the majority of whom are housewives, and called it “Samahan ng mga Kababaihan ng Ugong” as a partner for the Clean and Green Project in their Barangay.

The voluntary organization she organized turned formally into a foundation that was composed of more than 500 women. She refers to the group as KILUS since all of them are “kilus ng kilus.” Long after, KILUS developed and focused on livelihood projects, aiming to provide and sustain the needs of the organization’s volunteer members.

Since the organization focuses on the needs of HER female colleagues, she knew exactly what should be done. Being the former manager of Litton Mills Cooperative in Rosario, Pasig City for 10 years and at the same time managing Litton Knitting Credit Cooperative in Mandaluyong City, she recognized the value and importance of a cooperative—especially in the community. She encouraged the women to form a cooperative which is now known as Kilus Foundation Multi-Purpose Cooperative. This cooperative which was registered with the Cooperative Development Authority-National Capital Region (CDA-NCR) way back in 2000 is now well-known for their recycled bags and accessories. With her supervision and leadership, it was featured in different articles, blogs, and TV features, such as FAME+, UNTV News, CNN Philippines, and GMA7’s I-Juander Show. She was also invited to share the success of the cooperative in different places worldwide.

The secret of KILUS MPC’s success: honesty, transparency, perseverance, generosity, and fear of the Lord are the ingredients of a successful cooperative.

Ms. Edith Santiago was recognized and given countless recognitions from different organizations like TESDA, DTI, and Cooperative Unions. But above all, her greatest achievement and reward she considered her most was when she saw her fellow women colleagues succeed. They were able to achieve something for their families, like building and completing their houses, supporting the education of their children, and recognizing their contributions and fostering self-worth. A model for all of us women who are members of Kilus Foundation Multipurpose Cooperative and an inspiration to all women all over the world.

As we celebrate the National Women’s Month this March, we recognize the vast leadership experience of Ms. Josephine “JoMa” Masacupan in the Cooperative Movement. She became a member of the Xavier Credit Cooperative (XACCOOP) in 1976 and was tapped to join the pool of potential leaders of the cooperative a year later. From then on, she has used so many leadership hats and helped the cooperative grow into what it is today. She served as a member and chairperson of the Audit Committee for two terms respectively, a member and vice-chairperson of the Education Committee for one year each. From 2015 up to the present, she has been serving as the Chairperson of the Board of Directors. She also sits in the San Juan City Cooperative Council as its Vice-Chairperson.

When Covid-19 Pandemic became a global outbreak, Ms. Josephine Masacupan led the Board of Directors in coming up with ways on how the services would still be availed by members. Specifically, it was during this time that the members needed the help of the cooperative more than ever. Through her leadership, loans and withdrawals were still implemented via the online bank transactions implemented by the management staff in compliance to the directions of the Board of Directors. Aside from online bank transactions, XACCOOP fully maximized GCASH as a vehicle to send the needed loans or withdrawals of our members to be utilized during the Covid-19 pandemic. Furthermore, she and the manager worked together and proposed to the Board of Directors other assistance to the members such as the Ayuda sa Pandemya, waiving the penalties of loans for the years 2020 and 2021, and other forms of assistance to help XACCOOP members during these difficult times.

Moving forward, during her leadership in the Board of Directors, two major social action committee programs were institutionalized. The first program was the Provision for Hot Meals which was a 6-month feeding program in partnership with the San Juan City Nutrition Office who identified areas with the most number of malnourished children. There were other departments from Xavier School who also acted as partners for various activities during the said feeding program which is already on its third year this 2025. XACCOOP likewise partnered with Barangay Little Baguio in 2023 and served 25 malnourished children. In 2024, they collaborated with Barangay Batis and extended assistance to 24 malnourished children.

The second program was the conduct of free mandatory training for all the cooperatives in San Juan City. They were assisted to complete all the CDA mandatory training and comply with the requirements of CDA. The program is now on its 3rd year this 2025.

As XACCOOP gears up towards the next 50 years, she invited all the younger women members to take an active role in the cooperative. She stated that, “I believe that coop leaders, specially women, have to empower themselves or prepare themselves for the tasks and challenges of the cooperative.  These can be achieved through training, professional readings, getting involved in the cooperative programs, plans, projects and activities.”

“Ang isang coop leader ay may pagmamahal sa kanyang kooperatiba at malasakit sa lahat ng mga miyembro nito.”

In celebration of Women’s Month, we honor the remarkable contributions of Ms. Gloria “Jojie” Marasigan, a steadfast advocate for cooperative principles and an inspiration to many. Ate Jojie, as she is fondly called, has dedicated her life to empowering women and fostering economic growth through cooperative initiatives. Her unwavering commitment and innovative leadership have shaped the landscape of the cooperative sector, making a lasting impact on countless lives.

But before she became active in the cooperative movement, she was a diligent student from the University of Sto. Tomas who graduated in AB Translation who earned her units in Masters in Business Management at Dela Salle University-Graduate School of Business and Economics. Her involvement in the cooperative movement started in 1984 as a volunteer trainer/organizer for the Philippine Federation of Credit Cooperatives where she was fortunate enough to receive a training grant to attend the Cooperative Leadership Workshop from the Asian Confederation of Credit Unions (ACCU) in Bangkok, Thailand for 15 days. With these background, she worked at Caritas Manila from 1988 to 2007 as a Social Development Officer wherein she facilitated the training on livelihood, parish and community organizing and social enterprise development including cooperative organizing. Then from 2007 to 2012 she became one of the founding members and the first General Manager of Caritas Salve Microfinance Cooperative. As a member of Lingkod Simbahan Multi-Purpose Cooperative currently serving in the Education Committee, she was instrumental in facilitating the registration of the Merger and Consolidation of Caritas Employees Credit Cooperative and Veritas Employees MPC into Lingkod Simbahan Multi-Purpose Cooperative in 2006. Other positions she held were:

Member of Vincentian Family Multi-Purpose Cooperative
Positions held: Audit Committee Member (2018 – 2022)
Board of Director (2022-2023)

Founding member/organizer of Ina ng Lupang Pangako Vicariate Consumers Cooperative
Position held: currently appointed as General Manager .

Member of 1Cooperative Health Management Federation
Position held: Vice-Chairperson, Education Committee (2022-2024)

Member of NCMF as Ina ng Lupang Pangako Vicariate Consumers Cooperative (INLPVCC)
representative
Position held: Appointed as GAD Committee

Member of Quezon City Cooperative Development Council as INLPVCC representative
Position held: Elected as Auditor (2025-2026) .

Co-founder/organizer of the Union of Catholic Church-based Cooperatives (UCC)
Position held: Appointed as CEO of UCC in 2012 and is an accredited cooperative trainer

Host/Anchor of Buhay Kooperatiba Radio Program aired over Radio Veritas846 every Saturday from 10am to 11am (2016 to Present)

Ms. Gloria Marasigan has been instrumental in the establishment of several cooperatives, including Caritas SALVE and Caritas Et Labora. With her creative and innovative mindset, she has tirelessly explored ways to uplift the poor through cooperative movements. Her deep concern for marginalized communities aligns seamlessly with cooperative principles, allowing her to pioneer programs that provide sustainable opportunities for the underprivileged.

Recognizing the power of financial independence, she spearheaded microfinance programs that enable women to start and grow their businesses. Through low-interest loans and financial literacy training, she has empowered women to contribute meaningfully to their families and communities. Under her guidance, what started as a small initiative has blossomed into a thriving organization that supports hundreds of women entrepreneurs.

Beyond her direct contributions, Ms. Gloria Marasigan has served as a mentor and role model for young women in the community. Her integrity and wisdom have earned her the admiration of cooperative members and colleagues alike. Many describe her as a “walking encyclopedia of the cooperative movement,” always willing to share her knowledge andexpertise. Through workshops and mentorship programs, she has equipped the next generation with the skills and confidence needed to assume leadership roles in the cooperative sector.

Her influence extends beyond the cooperative. She has hosted radio programs, advocating for the cooperative movement and exploring opportunities that can bringabout social and economic transformation. Her words resonate with both wisdom and aspiration, inspiring many to embrace cooperative values and work towards a brighter future.

Ms. Gloria Marasigan’s life is a testament to resilience and perseverance. She has faced numerous challenges but has always emerged stronger, driven by her deep sense of social responsibility. Her humility and dedication reflect a simple life full of wisdom, fairness,and justice for all. She stands firm in her beliefs, ensuring that cooperative initiatives remain inclusive and equitable.

Her legacy is one of tenacity, simplicity, and a heart dedicated to the cooperative sector. As we celebrate Women’s Month, we honor her immense contributions and the inspiration she provides to all who strive to make a difference. Ms. Gloria Marasigan’s story serves as a beacon of hope, proving that through passion, commitment, and the power of cooperation,lasting change is possible.

Ms. Eveleyn Rogado, the Bookkeeper of Talon Multi-Purpose Cooperative, has contributed a great help to the governance and operations of the cooperative. She joined the cooperative in 1992, assuming only the balance of the share capital of her deceased husband. Widowed at an early age with three children growing up, the cooperative was her fallback for the education needs of her children. The loans from the cooperative was contributory to her now three successful children.

An officer then offered her a part-time job in the cooperative as a means to augment her meager income. From being a record custodian to a bookkeeper now, she has touched so many lives. She spread words about the cooperative and the great benefits derived from her joining. To the tenants of the cooperative, she shared her secrets of managing money to meet all needs without sacrificing the quality of products they offered in their stores. With pride on her part, they too were able to have their children obtain education through the loans offered by the cooperative.

Aside from her bookkeeping task, whenever possible, she would voluntarily drop by some borrowers house to ask if they will pay their dues, then collects and remits the same. This helped the cooperative a lot to recover from losses during the pandemic.

Then for members who badly need loans, she accommodated them even before office hours of 2:00 P.M. She went out of her way to the signatories so the loan could be released to the member. She is well-known to the members as a “very accommodating Ate Evelyn”. She is also a respectable person.

Now in her late 70’s, she is definitely so much more than the word “Leader” because of her ability to motivate, guide and set an example to others.

Ms. Nenita  Francisco was a faculty member at St. Scholastica’s Academy, Marikina.  After thirty-nine years of service, she retired and joined St. Gabriel Credit Cooperative on October 31, 2005, through the encouragement of the current General Manager, Jaime Dagos.

At the time of joining, the cooperative was still in its early stages, and she was assigned as a member of the Board. Eventually, Ms. Nenita  Francisco was elected as the chairperson of the Board. Following this term, she took on the role of chairperson of the Ethics Committee and successfully drafted the Ethical Standards Guidelines for both employees and members.

In an effort to deepen knowledge about cooperatives, she attended several seminars offered by organizations such as the Cooperative Development Authority (CDA) and the City Union of Marikina Cooperatives (CUMC). The insights gained from these training sessions were shared with the staff and members, contributing to their overall understanding and growth within the cooperative. Being a leader presented many challenges, requiring Ms. Francisco to set a good example by demonstrating responsibility, fulfilling commitments, participating in cooperative affairs, and embodying the cooperative philosophy.

St. Gabriel Multipurpose Cooperative was established in 2005 by the parish priest, Fr. Willie Estraza, with the goal of improving the lives of parishioners. It began as a credit cooperative with only fifteen members, each contributing an initial share of Two Thousand Pesos (Php 2,000.00). Over time, membership expanded to fifty, with Jaime Dagos serving as the first chairperson and the late Crisanto Rivera as the General Manager. The cooperative was officially registered with the Cooperative Development Authority (CDA) and received approval on October 3, 2005.

Since its establishment, the cooperative experienced steady growth. However, in 2015, it faced challenges which resulted to membership withdrawals. Despite these setbacks, the cooperative overcame these difficulties with faith and perseverance. Through divine guidance, intercession of Mama Mary, and the strong leadership of Ms. Nenita A. Francisco, the cooperative gradually regained stability, attracting new members and expanding its reach. Currently, the cooperative boasts of 750 members with a total asset exceeding Thirty Million Pesos which makes it a medium-sized cooperative. In 2020, the cooperative purchased land and constructed a new office building. Additionally, two years ago, another property was acquired with plans to build a three-story commercial building that will serve as a rental property, further increasing the cooperative’s income.

Despite the challenges brought by the pandemic, the cooperative continued to thrive, providing financial support to its members through loan services. The leadership firmly believes that divine guidance has played a significant role in its success. Furthermore, Ms. Nenita  Francisco acknowledged the support of the Cooperative Development Authority (CDA) and believed that it had been instrumental in helping the cooperative achieve its goals.

A Passionate Leader in the Cooperative Movement

In the heart of every thriving cooperative is a leader who embodies resilience, dedication, and an unwavering commitment to service.

Ms. Carolina Go Camello, Vice Chairperson of Jafra Multipurpose Cooperative, is one such leader. A woman whose passion for cooperation has transformed not only her organization but also the lives of those around her.

Her journey in the cooperative movement began in 2010 when she joined Jafra Multipurpose Cooperative. As a businesswoman, she saw the potential of cooperatives in fostering economic empowerment and community development.

Guided by the principles of cooperation and service, she embraced the movement wholeheartedly, determined to make a meaningful impact.

Overcoming Challenges Through Service

Like many women in leadership, Carolina faced the challenge of working alongside highly experienced cooperative leaders. Engaging with experts in the field was both inspiring and intimidating, but she refused to be discouraged. Instead, she focused on what she does best –  serving people with sincerity, integrity, and dedication. Through hands-on leadership, continuous learning, and a deep  commitment to the cooperative’s mission, she gained the trust and respect of her peers.

Leadership Milestone and Impact

As Vice Chairperson, Ms. Carolina Go Camello has played a crucial role in strengthening Jafra Multipurpose Cooperative’s programs, ensuring that members receive not only financial support but also opportunities for growth and sustainability. Her leadership has helped expand the cooperative’s reach, improve member engagement, and promote inclusive development. She believes that “true leadership is not about personal gain but about lifting others and creating a lasting impact on the community”.

Despite challenges,Ms. Carolina Go Camello is steadfast in her vision of a cooperative sector that thrives through unity, innovation, and empowerment. She continues to inspire fellow cooperative members, especially women, to take active roles in leadership, proving that dedication and a heart for service are the true foundation of success.

Through her work, Ms. Carolina Go Camello exemplifies what it means to be a cooperative leader- one who not only dreams of progress but works tirelessly to make it a reality. She serves as a CDA-accredited Trainer and holds key positions in the cooperative sector, including Board of Director of QCUC, Oversight Director of it’s Special Project Committee, and Treasurer of the QC Cooperative Development Council, Treasurer of the Human Service Cluster (RCO), Secretary of the QC Credit Surety Fund, and Vice Chairperson of Jafra MPC. She also leads as Chairperson of Jafra MPC’s Education Committee, advocating for continuous learning among cooperatives. Her dedication and leadership continue to inspire and strengthen the cooperative movement.