Co-op News

In a concerted effort to strengthen the co-operative movement’s commitment to ethical governance and regulatory compliance, MASS-SPECC Cooperative Development Center, in partnership with the Pagadian City Union Cooperative (PCUC) and the Cooperative Development Authority (CDA) Region IX, successfully hosted the Financial Consumer Protection Act (FCPA) gap analysis training-workshop on July 23–24, 2025, in Pagadian City.

The two-day capacity-building event was held in response to Republic Act No. 11765 or the Financial Products and Services Consumer Protection Act (FCPA) and the CDA Memorandum Circular No. 2023-14, which require co-operatives to align their operations with updated financial consumer protection standards.

The workshop brought together 22 co-operatives with 75 participants from across Region IX, all eager to deepen their understanding of the law and its implications for co-operative governance. 

Far beyond ticking off a compliance checklist, the activity served as a platform for strengthening the values-based approach of co-ops to financial responsibility and consumer trust.

Guided by an expert resource speaker from the CDA Head Office, the participants undertook Gap Analysis exercises, allowing them to assess their current compliance standing and identify critical areas for improvement. 

One of the most impactful outcomes of the training was the development of board-approved action plans, which will serve as roadmaps for each co-op in fulfilling the requirements of the FCPA and integrating a stronger culture of protection, accountability, and service to members.

The event also highlighted recent CDA issuances, including Memorandum Circulars 2023-14 and 2024-22, ensuring that participants remain updated with the latest regulatory directions from the authority.

Participants praised the timeliness and relevance of the initiative, especially as the July 31 compliance deadline nears.

“Thank you, MASS-SPECC, for this timely initiative that helped both member and non-member co-ops comply before the July 31 deadline,” said Lusminda Cubero on behalf of the participants. “Special thanks to CDA Region 9 Director Ruben Cunanan and Jo Ann Gamboa for making this activity a success!”

With strong collaboration among MASS-SPECC, PCUC, and CDA Region IX, this training underscores a broader goal — to ensure that co-operatives not only comply with the law but also continue to grow as credible, responsible, and values-driven institutions.

As MASS-SPECC continues to champion learning and accountability in the co-operative sector, this initiative marks yet another step forward in building a movement that is not only compliant but truly committed to protecting and empowering every Filipino co-operative member.