Cooperative leaders from all corners of Northern Mindanao gathered on July 3 at the Grand Caprice Hotel in Cagayan de Oro City for the much-anticipated Regional Cooperatives Chamber Assembly. This landmark event brought together key stakeholders committed to advancing the cooperative movement across diverse sectors—particularly agriculture, credit, transport, and multipurpose cooperatives.
The assembly served as a dynamic platform for dialogue, collaboration, and shared learning. Among the most pressing topics were policy issues affecting local agricultural cooperatives, with an emphasis on the unique challenges and opportunities faced by dairy producers and farmer cooperatives.
CDA Chairperson and Undersecretary Alexander Raquepo led an engaging discussion with participants on proposed policy measures designed to strengthen rural livelihoods, promote food security, and secure the long-term sustainability of agricultural enterprises through cooperative solutions.
Distinguished guest speakers also enriched the program by sharing inspiring stories and innovative practices that have driven resilience and progress in their own organizations. Among the speakers were Ms. Anjie Diaz of the National Federation of Cooperative Primaries in the Philippines (NaFeCoop); Dr. Al’Gemergy Cuerquez, Chief Economic Development Specialist of the Department of Economic Development, Region X; Ms. Peregrine Cayadong, Division Chief of the National Anti-Poverty Commission; and Ms. Ruth Jacutin, an alumna of the Co-operative College of the Philippines.
An important highlight of the event was the formation of the new Council of Leaders for Northern Mindanao, who will steer regional efforts in cooperative development:
- Regional Governor: Bukidnon Government Employees Multipurpose Cooperative (BUGEMCO)
- Regional Vice Governor: Oro Savings and Sharing Multi-Purpose Cooperative
- Regional Secretary: DepEd Regional Office 10 Employees Consumers Cooperative
- Regional Treasurer: Oro Transport Service Cooperative
Supporting them are the newly elected Regional Council Members:
- KAMADA ARC Cooperative
- Phinma Education Faculty and Employees Multipurpose Cooperative
- Maunlad Coco Based Cooperative
- Cagayan-Opol-Molugan Dairy Cooperative
- Avon Community Multipurpose Cooperative
Together, these leaders will champion policy advocacy, drive regional collaboration, and invest in the professional growth of cooperative members. United by a shared vision, they are committed to building a brighter, more inclusive future for cooperatives across Northern Mindanao.
Stronger together, we empower communities and shape a sustainable tomorrow.
