On May 8, 2008, under the guidance of Engr. Oscar Modequillo, the Philippine Coconut Authority (PCA) organized the coconut farmers in Barangay Tagasaka, Hinatuan, Surigao del Sur. Hence, the Tagasaka Coconut Farmers Association (TACOFA) was formed, initially with 65 members, comprising 37 men and 28 women. This association was duly registered with the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE), with membership eventually growing to 132.
Over a decade the association, with support from the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), evolved into realizing the potential of consolidating its products under one cooperative. However, they were not catered at that time because they w
ere not full-fledged cooperatives. It led to consultation meetings and a decision by the majority of members to transform into a cooperative. The remarkable transition from an association to a cooperative was achieved when they were granted a certi
ficate of registration from the Cooperative Development Authority (CDA) on April 16, 2018. With the passion of dedicated members, TACOFA became Tagasaka Coconut Farmers Agriculture Cooperative (TACOFACO). They embarked on a path of convergence with various partner agencies. From 118 they now have 142 members. The cooperative eagerly participated in the Coconut Farmers and Industry Development Plan (CFIDP), securing a significant cash assistance worth PhP 250,000.00 from the CDA through its COCOFARMCOOP Program, with the support of CDA Regional Director Monatao Honeya R. Alawi.
TACOFACO extends its deep gratitude to CDA, for the enduring partnership and support that goes beyond the present into the future. The journey of TACOFACO showcases the power of unity, resilience, and the commitment of a community to thrive in the face of challenges, ultimately turning a small farmers’ association into a thriving cooperative that stands as a symbol of hope and progress in Hinatuan, Surigao del Sur.
