Co-op News





MASS-SPECC strengthens Asian ties at Asian Credit Union Forum 2025
The co-operative spirit shone brightly at the Asian Credit Union Forum 2025, the annual gathering led by the Asian Confederation of Credit Unions (ACCU) and hosted this year by the National Confederation of Cooperatives (NATCCO) and the Philippine Federation of Credit Cooperatives (PFCCO) at the Crowne Plaza Manila Galleria on September 11–13, 2025.
This year’s forum was especially significant as the global movement celebrated the International Year of Cooperatives (IYC) 2025 with the theme, “Cooperatives Build a Better World.” In line with this, the event also showcased how co-operatives contribute to achieving the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) — highlighting their impact on poverty reduction, decent work and economic growth, gender equality, climate action, and building resilient communities.
The event brought together co-op leaders, practitioners, and advocates from across Asia to exchange knowledge, explore innovative strategies, and reaffirm the role of credit unions in driving financial inclusion and sustainable development. Before the program proper, participants joined co-op visits to 11 selected co-operatives in Manila and nearby areas, gaining first-hand insights into successful models and best practices.
From Mindanao, MASS-SPECC Cooperative Development Center fielded a 26-member delegation, comprising 11 members of the Board of Directors (BOD), one admin and finance manager, and 14 representatives from its member co-ops.
Their presence underscored MASS-SPECC’s commitment to regional collaboration and to amplifying the voices of Mindanao co-operatives on the Asian stage.
The forum featured plenary sessions, panel discussions, and networking activities that covered a wide range of issues—including the future of credit unions in the digital economy, policy frameworks that promote co-operative resilience, inclusive financial services for underserved communities, and co-op leadership for sustainability.
For MASS-SPECC, these exchanges provided timely insights to reinforce its mission of strengthening federations and grassroots co-operatives, while championing accountability, transparency, and innovation as core values.
The gathering highlighted not only the achievements of Asian credit unions but also the importance of working together across borders.
By fostering partnerships with federations and institutions throughout the region, the forum amplified the message that co-op are key players in shaping an inclusive financial system.
As the IYC shines a spotlight on the sector’s impact, MASS-SPECC stands united with its Asian counterparts in building sustainable futures rooted in solidarity.
Its active participation in the Asian Credit Union Forum 2025 reflects its dedication to empowering communities, championing financial inclusion, and proving that indeed, “Cooperatives Build a Better World.”
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