CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY, PHILIPPINES — MASS-SPECC Cooperative Development Center, the largest regional co-op federation in Mindanao with over 300 primary co-operatives, successfully held the 2024 MASS-SPECC CO-OPvention from May 28 to 30 in Cagayan de Oro City.

The event featured the Managers’ Congress, the 54th Co-op Leaders’ Congress, and the 50th General Assembly, drawing co-op leaders from all over the Philippines, but mostly from Mindanao.

This year’s CO-OPvention focused on the theme “CO-Operating for Inclusive Growth and Community Resilience,” driven by the need to ensure that all members benefit equally from cooperative growth. The event emphasized the importance of leveraging digital technology to promote financial inclusivity and provide greater access to financial services for members.

Additionally, the CO-OPvention called for collective action among cooperatives to enhance the delivery of equitable services and contribute significantly to environmental preservation. The event aimed to position cooperatives as pivotal contributors to national development, echoing the cooperative principle of mutual aid and the importance of sustained individual and collective commitments for community improvement.

On the first day of the CO-OPvention, May 28, co-operative leaders from across Mindanao converged at the Mallberry Suites for a day of insightful discussions and strategic planning at the Managers’ Congress organized by the Mindanao Cooperative Managers Club (MCMC).

Keynote speaker Dr. Jesus P. Estanislao, a distinguished figure in corporate governance and founder of the Institute of Corporate Directors, delivered an impactful address on ethical business practices crucial for co-op managers. His presentation highlighted the importance of governance frameworks in sustaining co-operative success amidst evolving economic landscapes.

The Managers’ Congress not only served as a platform for learning and collaboration but also reaffirmed the commitment of Mindanao’s co-operative leaders to uphold ethical standards and drive sustainable development in their communities. 

The 54th Co-op Leaders’ Congress, held on May 29, resonated with a powerful theme: “CO-Operating for Inclusive Growth and Community Resilience.” Bringing together co-operative leaders and stakeholders from across Mindanao, the congress aimed to forge a path towards sustainable development and resilience in the face of challenges.

Discussions highlighted the transformative impact of digital technology in enhancing financial services accessibility, particularly in underserved rural areas where co-operatives are crucial lifelines. 

Representatives from the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) and Peppermint Innovation Ltd, a trailblazer in financial technology emphasized the growing acceptance of digital payments among diverse socioeconomic groups, showcasing co-op opportunities to leverage technology for broader financial inclusion.

Peppermint and MASS-SPECC are united not merely for commercial endeavors but to usher in a new era of digital financial inclusion through the Pinoy Coop Mobile (PCM) app, where members can send money between Pinoy Coop ATM accounts, check balances, and access wallet services via Instapay or PESONet, eLoad, and bills payment, among other features. 

With sessions focusing on innovation, inclusivity, and resilience, co-operatives are well-positioned to navigate future challenges and foster lasting impacts in their respective communities.

The 50th General Assembly of co-operative leaders concluded on May 30, where co-operative leaders reconvened to address crucial agenda items, including the eagerly awaited 2024 Election Results and the Proclamation of Winners.

The assembly proceeded with diligence and transparency, ensuring the democratic process in electing new leaders who will steer co-operative initiatives forward in the coming years.

The 50th General Assembly celebrated co-operative achievements and reaffirmed their pivotal role in fostering inclusive growth and resilience within local communities. 

As co-ops look towards the future, they remain steadfast in their mission to empower members and contribute meaningfully to sustainable development across the region