msp-admin

#CoUPDATE MASS-SPECC unveils IYC CO-OPmunity Murals across Mindanao A collective celebration of co-operatives, community, and 60 years of shared legacy. Walls across Mindanao were transformed into powerful symbols of unity, identity, and hope as MASS-SPECC Cooperative Development Center culminated its Mindanao-wide celebration of the International Year of Cooperatives (IYC) 2025 through the launching and unveiling of the IYC CO-OPmunity Murals. Declared by the United Nations, IYC 2025 recognizes the vital role of co-operatives in building inclusive, equitable, and sustainable organizations worldwide. In response to this global call, MASS-SPECC — the oldest and largest regional co-operative federation in Mindanao — spearheaded the IYC CO-OPmunity Mural Campaign, a federation-wide creative initiative that brought together co-op members, leaders, staff, volunteers, youth, and artists across regions. More than an art project, the campaign served as a shared expression of the co-op movement’s values and aspirations, making the co-op identity visible, accessible, and meaningful to the wider public. From regional painting days to a shared unveiling The campaign unfolded through coordinated mural painting activities across regions and clusters, held on October 30 (Regions 9, 10, 11, and 13), October 31 (Region 12), and November 3 (ZBST Region). During these regional painting days, volunteers from various co-operative sectors — agriculture, transport, savings and credit, and multi-purpose co-operatives — worked side-by-side with professional mural artists. Each brushstroke symbolized cooperation in action, reflecting how diverse co-ops work together toward a shared mission. While the murals were developed in stages, this process itself carried meaning. Co-operative work, like the murals, is continuous. What mattered was starting together, sustaining the collective effort, and completing the work as one community. The completed murals were later officially unveiled in their respective regions, marking the culminating activity of the Mindanao-wide celebration of IYC 2025. The unveiling ceremonies were held on November 17 in Region 9, November 21 in Regions 12 and Caraga, November 26 in Region 11, November 27 in the ZBST Region, and December 19 in Region 10 — each gathering co-operative leaders, members, partners, and communities in a shared celebration of co-operative identity and solidarity. A mural with a message and a mission At the heart of every CO-OPmunity mural is a clear and unifying message: “Co-operatives Build a Better World.” Each mural reflects both local identity and shared co-operative values. Cultural elements and regional symbols honor community roots, while common visual themes — people working together, nurturing the environment, supporting families, and embracing innovation — highlight the lived realities of cooperation. Central images such as the globe and interlocking gears emphasize that co-ops are part of a global movement built on interdependence and solidarity. Icons representing inclusive finance, digital services, and member participation underscore the movement’s commitment to relevance, accessibility, and shared prosperity. Across every mural, diverse people — young and old, women and men, farmers and workers—stand together, affirming that co-operatives are built by people, for people. One unveiling, three milestones Beyond celebrating IYC 2025, the unveiling of the CO-OPmunity Murals also carried deeper significance.  Each launching simultaneously served as the official kick-off of SPECC’s 60th Anniversary, a celebration of six decades of co-operative development and service, and a reaffirmation of MASS-SPECC’s enduring advocacy for values-based, people-centered co-operatives. For sixty years, SPECC — and later MASS-SPECC —has played a pivotal role in shaping the co-operative movement in Mindanao and beyond. From building co-operative leaders and institutions to advancing education, finance, and digital services, the federation’s legacy is rooted in one enduring principle: building co-operators first, guided by shared values and collective responsibility. Painting the co-operative story together Through the CO-OPmunity Mural Campaign, MASS-SPECC aims to spark curiosity and deepen public understanding of co-operatives. As the murals now stand in public spaces across Mindanao, they invite people to ask: “What are co-operatives? Why do they matter?” And the walls themselves respond: “Co-operatives are present, active, and continuing to build a better world—together.” The CO-OPmunity murals stand as lasting reminders that cooperation is both an idea and a practice. They reflect a movement that grows through participation, thrives through unity, and endures through shared purpose. As MASS-SPECC moves forward toward its 60th year, these murals remain visible testaments to a living legacy — one painted by many hands, strengthened by many voices, and guided by a common vision of inclusive and sustainable development. “Together we paint. Together we build a better world. Together, we celebrate the International Year of Cooperatives 2025 and the enduring legacy of MASS-SPECC.” Recent Post MASS-SPECC’s SCOOPS Program, powered by Pinoy Coop Digital Services, channels ₱15M in typhoon aid – Copy #CoUPDATE MASS-SPECC’s SCOOPS Program, powered by Pinoy Coop Digital Services,… Read More February 2, 2026 MASS-SPECC’s SCOOPS Program, powered by Pinoy Coop Digital Services, channels ₱15M in typhoon aid #CoUPDATE MASS-SPECC’s SCOOPS Program, powered by Pinoy Coop Digital Services,… Read More December 21, 2025 MASS-SPECC recognized at the 4th Digital Financial Inclusion Awards ​ Co-op News MASS-SPECC recognized at the 4th Digital Financial Inclusion… Read More December 19, 2025 Region 10 co-operators unite for 2025 Co-operative Month, compete in sportsfest ​ Co-op News Region 10 co-operators unite for 2025 Co-operative Month,… Read More November 7, 2025 Load More

#CoUPDATE MASS-SPECC’s SCOOPS Program, powered by Pinoy Coop Digital Services, channels Php 15M in typhoon aid The Sustainable Co-ops (SCOOPS) Program is MASS-SPECC’s environmental initiative that empowers co-operatives to strengthen climate resilience, promote sustainable growth, and inspire greener practices among members. Through this program, MASS-SPECC continues to harness the strength of the co-operative network in responding to climate-related emergencies. In the aftermath of Typhoon Tino, communities across the Dinagat Islands and Siargao faced widespread destruction. Homes, livelihoods, and critical infrastructure were damaged or lost, leaving thousands of families in urgent need of assistance. Responding swiftly, CARE Philippines and the START Network funded a ₱15 million Multi-Purpose Cash Assistance (MPCA) Early Response Plan, coursed through MASS-SPECC and implemented in partnership with the Agri-Aqua Development Coalition (AADC)–Mindanao. The initiative aimed to provide timely and dignified support to affected households while enabling early recovery. The program supported a total of 1,800 families across the municipalities of Loreto and Tubajon in the Dinagat Islands, as well as Santa Monica, Dapa, and Ana-aon in Surigao del Norte. Each household received ₱8,500 in direct financial assistance, amounting to a total of ₱15 million to help families meet immediate needs and stabilize their living conditions. At the core of the response was a strong commitment to transparency, efficiency, and accountability, made possible through MASS-SPECC’s Pinoy Coop digital services infrastructure and the core banking platforms of local partner co-operatives. By leveraging these systems, the program ensured that cash assistance reached beneficiaries securely and without delay. NEWS Multi-Purpose Cooperative led the implementation in the Dinagat Islands, while PILAR Multi-Purpose Cooperative headed operations in Siargao Island. SAFRAGEMC oversaw distribution in Ana-aon, Surigao del Norte, and Baug CARP Beneficiaries MPC facilitated the rollout in Mainit, Surigao del Norte. Working through trusted local co-operatives enabled efficient delivery while reinforcing community-based mechanisms of support. In Loreto and Tubajon, beneficiaries were enrolled with savings accounts under NEWS MPC’s MBWin core banking system. Cash assistance was credited directly into these accounts and later withdrawn by beneficiaries from designated co-operative payout centers. Meanwhile, in Siargao and Ana-aon, beneficiaries accessed their assistance through over-the-counter withdrawals facilitated by MASS-SPECC’s Core Banking System under the Pinoy Coop set-up. This approach allowed partner co-operatives to process transactions securely at their branches, ensuring that all cash-outs were fully documented, auditable, and protected against duplication or errors. Cash-out operations on the ground were preceded by orientations for payout personnel and security teams to ensure clear procedures and safeguards. Each transaction was logged and acknowledged by the beneficiary and reflected in daily reconciliation reports submitted by NEWS MPC, PILAR MPC, SAFRAGEMC, and Baug CARP BMPC to MASS-SPECC. To oversee the implementation, MASS-SPECC organized a dedicated multi-agency operations team composed of administrative and deployment leads, finance personnel, ICT specialists, documentation staff, and co-operative partners managing security and logistics. Deployed teams were provided with appropriate protective gear, transportation, meals, and lodging to ensure safe and efficient operations in affected areas. Daily progress reports were submitted to the overall team leader to closely monitor distribution and address challenges in real time. The MPCA Early Response Plan under the SCOOPS Program underscores MASS-SPECC’s steadfast commitment to community resilience and co-operative solidarity. In times of crisis, the co-operative network stands as a reliable partner to affected families—delivering assistance with transparency, dignity, and compassion. Recent Post MASS-SPECC’s SCOOPS Program, powered by Pinoy Coop Digital Services, channels ₱15M in typhoon aid – Copy Co-op News MASS-SPECC’s SCOOPS Program, powered by Pinoy Coop Digital… Read More February 2, 2026 MASS-SPECC unveils IYC CO-OPmunity Murals across Mindanao – Copy Co-op News MASS-SPECC unveils IYC CO-OPmunity Murals across Mindanao A… Read More February 2, 2026 MASS-SPECC recognized at the 4th Digital Financial Inclusion Awards ​ Co-op News MASS-SPECC recognized at the 4th Digital Financial Inclusion… Read More December 19, 2025 Region 10 co-operators unite for 2025 Co-operative Month, compete in sportsfest ​ Co-op News Region 10 co-operators unite for 2025 Co-operative Month,… Read More November 7, 2025 Load More

Co-op News MASS-SPECC recognized at the 4th Digital Financial Inclusion Awards MASS-SPECC recognized as Digital Champion at the 4th Digital Financial Inclusion Awards MASS-SPECC Cooperative Development Center was recognized as a Digital Champion during the 4th Digital Financial Inclusion Awards, held at the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) Main Office, affirming the federation’s sustained commitment to advancing inclusive, people-centered digital finance within the Philippine co-operative and microfinance sector. Conferred by the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas, Citi Foundation, and the Microfinance Council of the Philippines, Inc. (MCPI), the Digital Financial Inclusion Awards annually honor institutions and individuals that have effectively leveraged digital solutions to expand access to financial services, particularly for underserved and low-income communities. This year, 17 individual awardees and three (3) microfinance institutions were honored for exemplifying how digitalization can improve efficiency, broaden outreach, and empower microentrepreneurs in an evolving financial landscape. MASS-SPECC’s recognition highlights its sustained digital transformation journey through Pinoy Coop Digital Solutions—an integrated cooperative-led ecosystem composed of Pinoy Coop Core, Pinoy Coop ATM, Pinoy Coop Kard, and Pinoy Coop Mobile. Designed specifically for co-operatives, these platforms enable end-to-end digital operations, 24/7 access to financial services, and greater reach in rural and underserved areas. Through Pinoy Coop, MASS-SPECC has empowered its network of member co-operatives to deliver secure, affordable, and convenient financial services to hundreds of thousands of members, including women, farmers, and micro-entrepreneurs — ensuring that technology truly serves people where it matters most. Beyond recognition, the Digital Financial Inclusion Awards also serve as a platform to promote digital readiness across the microfinance sector, encouraging institutions to adopt innovation while remaining responsive to the needs of their communities. MASS-SPECC’s recognition as a Digital Champion reinforces a shared vision: a cooperative-driven, digitally enabled Philippine economy where financial inclusion leaves no member behind. Recent Post MASS-SPECC recognized at the 4th Digital Financial Inclusion Awards ​ Co-op News MASS-SPECC recognized at the 4th Digital Financial Inclusion… Read More January 13, 2026 MASS-SPECC showcases green leadership in virtual benchmarking ‘Panag-ambit: Co-op Environmental Best Practices’ Co-op News MASS-SPECC showcases green leadership in virtual benchmarking ‘Panag-ambit:… Read More October 9, 2025 MASS-SPECC strengthens Asian ties at Asian Credit Union Forum 2025 Co-op News MASS-SPECC strengthens Asian ties at Asian Credit Union… Read More October 9, 2025 Agri-BEST/Coop PROPEL Learning Exchange Visit Strengthens Co-op Partnerships and Innovation Co-op News Agri-BEST/Coop PROPEL Learning Exchange Visit Strengthens Co-op Partnerships… Read More September 12, 2025 Load More

Co-op News MASS-SPECC showcases green leadership in virtual benchmarking ‘Panag-ambit: Co-op Environmental Best Practices’ With the world facing critical environmental challenges, the co-operative movement in Mindanao united to amplify the global call for sustainability through the “Our Power, Our Co-ops” campaign. As part of this effort, MASS-SPECC Cooperative Development Center hosted a virtual benchmarking event, Panag-ambit: Co-op Environmental Best Practices, via Zoom on July 24, 2025, from 1:30 to 4:30 p.m. The event gathered 56 participants committed to advancing environmental stewardship within the co-operative sector. The session showcased inspiring environmental programs from member co-operatives, demonstrating that co-ops are not only economic enterprises but also vital partners in building a sustainable future. This aim to inspire and mobilize other co-operatives to take bold and meaningful steps in protecting and preserving our environment Three co-operatives presented their pioneering initiatives: Maragusan Growers Multi-Purpose Cooperative (MAGROW MPC) shared its Climate Change Fund and Environmental Programs, emphasizing sustainable farming and climate resilience. MSU-IIT National Multi-Purpose Cooperative (MSU-IIT NMPC) presented The Green Journey of MSU-IIT NMPC, which focuses on eco-education, greening programs, and renewable energy practices. Surigao Empowered and Economic MPC (SEEMCO) introduced Green Roots: Adopting Endemic Seedlings & Bokashi Solutions, highlighting innovative approaches to reforestation and organic waste management. The virtual benchmarking served as a platform for learning, sharing, and collaboration, reaffirming the co-operative movement’s commitment to environmental protection. From reforestation to clean energy, waste management, and eco-education, the initiatives reflected the collective action of cooperatives in creating greener, healthier, and more resilient communities. The event concluded with an open forum and discussions on future collaborations and partnerships, paving the way for co-ops to scale up their environmental efforts together. As the co-operative movement celebrates the International Year of Cooperatives, this initiative reinforces that the power of co-ops lies in collective responsibility and shared commitment to a better, more sustainable world. Recent Post MASS-SPECC showcases green leadership in virtual benchmarking ‘Panag-ambit: Co-op Environmental Best Practices’ Read More October 9, 2025 MASS-SPECC strengthens Asian ties at Asian Credit Union Forum 2025 Co-op News MASS-SPECC strengthens Asian ties at Asian Credit Union… Read More October 9, 2025 Agri-BEST/Coop PROPEL Learning Exchange Visit Strengthens Co-op Partnerships and Innovation Co-op News Agri-BEST/Coop PROPEL Learning Exchange Visit Strengthens Co-op Partnerships… Read More September 12, 2025 Agro-enterprise cluster leaders strengthen skills in sustainable marketing Co-op News Agro-enterprise cluster leaders strengthen skills in sustainable marketing… Read More September 9, 2025 Load More

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.” Recent Post MASS-SPECC showcases green leadership in virtual benchmarking ‘Panag-ambit: Co-op Environmental Best Practices’ Read More October 9, 2025 MASS-SPECC strengthens Asian ties at Asian Credit Union Forum 2025 Co-op News MASS-SPECC strengthens Asian ties at Asian Credit Union… Read More October 9, 2025 Agri-BEST/Coop PROPEL Learning Exchange Visit Strengthens Co-op Partnerships and Innovation Co-op News Agri-BEST/Coop PROPEL Learning Exchange Visit Strengthens Co-op Partnerships… Read More September 12, 2025 Agro-enterprise cluster leaders strengthen skills in sustainable marketing Co-op News Agro-enterprise cluster leaders strengthen skills in sustainable marketing… Read More September 9, 2025 Load More

Co-op News Agri-BEST/Coop PROPEL Learning Exchange Visit Strengthens Co-op Partnerships and Innovation As the Coop-PROPEL Project nears completion, leaders from eight partner co-operatives gathered on July 2–3, 2025, at the Big 8 Corporate Hotel in Digos City for the Agri-BEST/Coop PROPEL: Learning Exchange Visit and Planning. The event was organized by MASS-SPECC Cooperative Development Center, with support from the SPADe Project and funding from the European Union and the German Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development through the Deutsche Gesellschaft fur Internationale Zusammenarbeit (GIZ). The two-day event served as a platform to reflect on the journey of Coop-PROPEL that has empowered coconut and cacao smallholder farmers through co-op clustering, digital innovation, and inclusive value chain development.  With the project entering its final stages, the activity focused on sustaining its gains and expanding its impact beyond the original scope. Participants engaged in peer learning, strategic planning, and knowledge-sharing sessions aimed at ensuring the continuity of project achievements.  Key topics included digital transformation, innovative co-operative services, the replication of the clustering model for other high-potential crops such as coffee, abaca, and rubber, and inter-co-operative collaboration. The event also featured a project site committee planning session, where co-op leaders openly discussed challenges and shared best practices.  These sessions helped align plans with the needs of local farming communities and their co-operatives. By revisiting the milestones of Coop-PROPEL and exploring new directions for growth, the learning exchange visit emphasized long-term empowerment over short-term results.  Leaders expressed optimism that the project’s model could serve as a blueprint for other agricultural communities seeking to build resilient, digitally enabled, and market-responsive co-operative systems. As the Coop-PROPEL Project transitions into its final phase, MASS-SPECC remains committed to driving inclusive and sustainable development among agricultural co-operatives through continuous engagement, innovation, and collaboration. Recent Post Agro-enterprise cluster leaders strengthen skills in sustainable marketing – Copy Co-op News Agro-enterprise cluster leaders strengthen skills in sustainable marketing… Read More September 12, 2025 Agro-enterprise cluster leaders strengthen skills in sustainable marketing Co-op News Agro-enterprise cluster leaders strengthen skills in sustainable marketing… Read More September 9, 2025 SWG meetings underscore multi-sector collaboration for coconut and cacao farmers Co-op News SWG meetings underscore multi-sector collaboration for coconut and… Read More September 9, 2025 MASS-SPECC leads region-wide push for financial consumer protection compliance Co-op News MASS-SPECC leads region-wide push for financial consumer protection… Read More September 8, 2025 Load More

Co-op News Agro-enterprise cluster leaders strengthen skills in sustainable marketing Advancing from planning to implementation, co-operative cluster leaders participated in the Module 2 Training on Agro-Enterprise Clustering Approach (AECA) and Shared Leadership, held from different areas in Regions 9, 11 and 12.  Organized by MASS-SPECC Cooperative Development Center under the Coop-PROPEL Project, with support from the SPADE Project co-funded by the European Union and the German Government (GIZ), the training aimed to enhance the capabilities of co-op leaders to manage their agro-enterprise clusters more effectively and independently. Building on foundational concepts from the first module, Module 2 focused on practical application and sustainability. Participants explored Steps 5 to 8 of the AECA framework: Step 5: Finalizing marketing agreements Step 6: Testing and implementing the marketing plan Step 7: Reviewing marketing results and lessons learned Step 8: Developing a sustainability plan With these steps, the training shifted from theory to real-world execution. Co-op leaders were encouraged to take greater ownership of cluster operations, strengthen internal systems, and craft forward-looking strategies for long-term viability. Beyond technical topics, a key component of the training was shared leadership development, fostering teamwork, accountability, and active participation within cluster groups. Through interactive workshops, peer-sharing, and reflective activities, participants practiced self-management, assessed their group development stages, and reinforced their roles as co-operative leaders. The program also emphasized the vital relationship between co-operatives and clusters in ensuring stable supply, coordinated marketing, and collective decision-making. Bonus sessions on leadership commitment and sustainability planning helped cluster leaders envision their growth trajectory beyond project support.  A total of 374 participants representing MIEDECO, BCS MPC, Makilala MPC, Paglaum Consolidated MPC, Sta. Catalina MPC, MIFAMCO, Sindangan Community FACOMA, and TIMMULCO came together for the multi-day training. United by a shared vision, these co-operatives are working to develop profitable, farmer-led agro-enterprises that can compete and thrive in today’s marketplace. As MASS-SPECC continues to provide technical assistance and mentoring, the AECA Module 2 training marks a pivotal transition toward self-reliant, market-driven co-operative enterprises — empowering smallholder farmers not just to participate, but to lead in agricultural value chains. Recent Post Agro-enterprise cluster leaders strengthen skills in sustainable marketing Co-op News SWG meetings underscore multi-sector collaboration for coconut and… Read More September 9, 2025 SWG meetings underscore multi-sector collaboration for coconut and cacao farmers Co-op News SWG meetings underscore multi-sector collaboration for coconut and… Read More September 9, 2025 MASS-SPECC leads region-wide push for financial consumer protection compliance Co-op News MASS-SPECC leads region-wide push for financial consumer protection… Read More September 8, 2025 MASS-SPECC, TESDA Celebrate Graduates of CDM Level IV Course Co-op News Empowering Co-op Leaders through Values-Based Education: MASS-SPECC, TESDA… Read More July 30, 2025 Load More

Co-op News SWG meetings underscore multi-sector collaboration for coconut and cacao farmers To reinforce collaborative strategies and sustain the gains of the Coop-PROPEL Project, MASS-SPECC Cooperative Development Center, in partnership with primary member co-operatives and key development stakeholders, facilitated the first Site Working Group (SWG) meetings of 2025 from July 7 to 9 in various locations across Davao del Sur. The three-day activity brought together co-op leaders, government agencies, private sector partners, development organizations, and farmer-cluster leaders to discuss agri-programs from different agencies, co-ops’ enterprise performance, and activities for collaborations align on sustainability efforts for coconut and cacao value chain development. Held on July 7, the first session focused on reviewing the coconut marketing operations of Makilala Multi-Purpose Cooperative (MAKMPC).  Attended by the co-op’s top management, agri committee, and agribusiness staff, the group developed an updated operational plan and agreed on enhanced strategies to streamline coconut buying activities.  Among the commitments were regular cluster meetings, improved coordination between the marketing team and value chain field facilitator, and stronger internal alignment. On July 8, BCS Multipurpose Cooperative (BCSMPC) convened its first SWG meeting for 2025, bringing together partners such as MASS-SPECC, Grameen Foundation, PCA, DTI RAPID Project, CDO-GSL, and the LGU of Bansalan. The meeting featured program updates on coconut training, financing, farm tools support, and technical assistance.  All partners expressed a unified commitment to collaborate in delivering services that benefit coconut farmers in the area. The final session, held on July 9, featured the SWG meeting of Malabog Integrated Enterprises Development Cooperative (MIEDECO), which highlighted opportunities in both coconut and cacao production. Partner agencies, including MASS-SPECC, MEDA-RIISA, PCA, Franklin Baker, and the LGU of Paquibato District, shared updates on their ongoing and upcoming support services. Discussions focused on cacao processing, productivity improvements, and expanded government assistance through the CFIDP program. The session concluded with all partners reaffirming their commitment to inter-agency coordination. The SWG meetings demonstrated how multi-sector collaboration continues to be a vital driver of co-operative and farmer success. With updated operational plans, renewed commitments, and a clear path forward, the participating co-operatives are now better positioned to sustain the gains of the Coop-PROPEL Project and to expand opportunities in other commodities and among other member co-ops of MASS-SPECC. Recent Post Agro-enterprise cluster leaders strengthen skills in sustainable marketing Co-op News Agro-enterprise cluster leaders strengthen skills in sustainable marketing… Read More September 9, 2025 SWG meetings underscore multi-sector collaboration for coconut and cacao farmers Co-op News SWG meetings underscore multi-sector collaboration for coconut and… Read More September 9, 2025 MASS-SPECC leads region-wide push for financial consumer protection compliance Co-op News MASS-SPECC leads region-wide push for financial consumer protection… Read More September 8, 2025 MASS-SPECC, TESDA Celebrate Graduates of CDM Level IV Course Co-op News Empowering Co-op Leaders through Values-Based Education: MASS-SPECC, TESDA… Read More July 30, 2025 Load More

Co-op News MASS-SPECC leads region-wide push for financial consumer protection compliance 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. Recent Post MASS-SPECC leads region-wide push for financial consumer protection compliance Co-op News MASS-SPECC leads region-wide push for financial consumer protection… Read More September 8, 2025 MASS-SPECC, TESDA Celebrate Graduates of CDM Level IV Course Co-op News Empowering Co-op Leaders through Values-Based Education: MASS-SPECC, TESDA… Read More July 30, 2025 MASS-SPECC, CLIMBS, OIC, CLIFSA donate medical equipment to Buda Community Health Care Center​ True to their co-operative identity and commitment to uplifting human… Read More July 25, 2025 A Celebration of Co-operative Leadership and Collective Vision: MASS-SPECC holds 2025 Leaders’ Forum, Oath-Taking Ceremony​ With the powerful theme “Co-operatives as Instruments for Sustainable Development… Read More July 25, 2025 Load More