In today’s digital age, financial inclusion and technology go together, and the Cooperative Development Authority (CDA) is at the forefront of this movement, leading the way in strengthening Philippine cooperatives. On April 30, 2025, the CDA successfully held the fifth installment of its Electronic Cooperative Clinique Program (E-CoopCLiP) as a key enabler of cooperative development. This innovative online initiative, a testament to the CDA’s commitment, provides cooperatives nationwide with easy access to expert guidance and technical support.
This year’s segment, “Bridging Financial Gaps: The Impact of CISA on Cooperative Lending,” brought together over 350 cooperators nationwide from various cooperatives. What made this edition particularly impactful was the strategic collaboration with the Credit Information Corporation (CIC), the Philippines’ public credit registry. This collaboration, a key part of the event’s success, fosters financial transparency and stability, enhancing the cooperative sector’s financial inclusion efforts.
The event opened with a warm welcome from Undersecretary Alexander B. Raquepo, CDA Chairperson, who underscored the urgency of addressing financial disparities in the cooperative sector. “Bridging financial gaps is not just about technology—it’s about commitment,” he asserted. “It’s a commitment to good governance, data integrity, and ultimately, to building a more equitable future for every Filipino.” This inspiring message left the audience feeling hopeful and inspired.
Following his remarks, Atty. Ma. Lourdes P. Pacao, CDA OIC-Administrator, reinforced the program’s dual purpose: ensuring compliance while maximizing operational efficiency. “Accurate and timely data submission isn’t just a legal obligation—it’s a strategic tool,” she explained. “When cooperatives leverage data effectively, they improve risk assessment, reduce defaults, and create sustainable financial solutions.”
Atty. Philip Gerald Fulgeras deeply dived into the Credit Information System Act (CISA) and its transformative role in cooperative lending. Key takeaways included:
- Understanding CISA & CIC’s Role – How the law enhances credit transparency.
- Credit Reports & Borrower Rights – Empowering cooperatives with financial literacy.
- Compliance & Creditworthiness – Steps to strengthen lending practices.
The subsequent virtual technical assistance session became a dynamic forum for cooperatives to seek clarifications—a testament to the program’s practical relevance. The CIC representative’s expertise ensured no questions were unanswered, leaving participants engaged and involved.
As the event drew to a close, Chief Augusto Salvador P. Balles of the CDA Registration Division highlighted the power of partnership. “Today wasn’t just about sharing knowledge—it was about fostering cooperation across sectors,” he said. “With CIC’s support, we’re not just bridging financial gaps; we’re building a stronger foundation for cooperative growth.”
The E-CoopCLiP’s virtual format continues to break barriers, enabling cooperatives from remote regions to access vital information. More than just a webinar, the program exemplifies how CDAs’ innovation and stakeholders’ collaboration can drive meaningful progress. Through the E-CoopCLiP, the CDA reaffirms its mission: to cultivate a resilient, inclusive, and prosperous cooperative sector — one digital step at a time.
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