As part of its ongoing commitment to empowering the youth and fostering financial responsibility, MASS-SPECC Cooperative Development Center held a “Training of Trainers on Financial Literacy for the Youth” on August 22-23, 2024, at the Brokenshire Integrated Health Ministries in Madapo, Davao City.
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In a significant step towards empowering the next generation of co-operative leaders, the Mangagoy Farmers Fisherfolks and Community Multipurpose Cooperative (MAFFISCO-MPC) initiated a 2-day workshop of its youth members called “Panaghugpong: A Gathering of MAFFISCO Youth Members” held on July 16-17, 2024, at the Hinatuan Training Center, Surigao del Sur.
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People’s Micro Finance Cooperative holds training on Information Security, AMLA and DPA ZAMBOANGA CITY, PHILIPPINES – In a proactive step toward safeguarding its operations and members, the People’s Micro Finance Cooperative hosted a comprehensive training and orientation on Information Security with highlights on Cyber Threats, Anti-Money Laundering Act (AMLA), Data Privacy Act (DPA). The two-day event took place on August 16-17, 2024, at Guiwan Building in Zamboanga City. The training, attended by 140 participants over two days (70 per day), aimed to educate co-operative members and staff on critical aspects of protecting sensitive data, complying with regulations, and fostering a culture of security. Key topics included best practices in Information Security, legal obligations towards money laundering, ensuring data privacy, and building robust information security systems within the co-operative framework. A significant quote from one of the key speakers resonated throughout the event: “Cybersecurity is everybody’s responsibility.” This message highlighted the collective effort required to ensure that all members are vigilant and knowledgeable about potential risks in today’s digital age. MASS-SPECC Cooperative Development Center’s Enterprise Risk Management (ERM) Unit provided vital insights and practical tools to equip participants with the knowledge and skills necessary to protect the co-op’s assets and members. The training emphasized the importance of compliance with regulatory standards and the protection of member data as a top priority. This initiative reflects People’s Micro Finance Cooperative’s commitment to staying ahead of technological threats and ensuring a secure and responsible co-operative environment. The co-op movement aims to continue building its capacity for better service, stronger security, and enhanced member trust. With the conclusion of the event, the participants are now better informed and prepared to implement the necessary safeguards, ensuring that their co-operative remains resilient in the face of cyber threat challenges. People’s Micro Finance Cooperative holds training on Information Security, AMLA and DPA People’s Micro Finance Cooperative holds training on Information Security, AMLA… Read More September 10, 2024 AADC, Care Philippines, MASS-SPECC launch project simulation for typhoon readiness AADC, Care Philippines, MASS-SPECC launch project simulation for typhoon readiness… Read More July 25, 2024 Operation Pagtinabangay: ‘We Help As One’ a success in Davao del Norte Operation Pagtinabangay: ‘We Help As One’ a success in Davao… Read More March 28, 2024 Load More
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AADC, Care Philippines, MASS-SPECC launch project simulation for typhoon readiness The AGRI-AQUA Development Coalition – Mindanao (AADC) and Cooperative for Assistance and Relief Everywhere – Philippines (CARE Philippines), in collaboration with MASS-SPECC Cooperative Development Center and its member-co-operatives, have initiated a project to support cash distributions through the Multi-Purpose Cash Assistance (MCPA) using the Pinoy Coop POS cash-out facility. The project aims to activate the contingency plan’s anticipatory action ahead of typhoons in the municipalities of Tagana-an, Sison, Mainit, and Dapa, Surigao del Norte. This initiative is designed to mitigate the negative impacts of typhoons on vulnerable populations. From June 4-16, 2024, the project distributed Pinoy Coop Kards to 4,130 beneficiaries across 27 barangays in the said municipalities. A full simulation exercise of the payout process was conducted on June 13, 2024, involving 556 beneficiaries across four barangays. This proactive approach ensures that cash assistance reaches those in need efficiently and effectively, reinforcing community resilience against typhoons.
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ICE CREAM KING OF MSU-IIT NMPC Cirilo P. Opeña Jr.’s Story of Success with MSU-IIT National Multipurpose Cooperative Cirilo P. Opeña Jr. is a testament to the life-changing potential of membership in a co-operative like MSU-IIT National Multipurpose Cooperative. Opeña’s journey began in 2014 when he decided to join the co-op, encouraged by his friend who believed the co-operative could greatly benefit him. He initially ran a sari-sari store, a small convenience store that sells various household items. However, he aspired for more. He saw an opportunity in the ice cream business and decided to become a Selecta ice cream dealer in April 2021. This required a significant starting capital of P200,000. To achieve his goals, he sought additional funding through a loan from the MSU-IIT NMPC. His entrepreneurial spirit was not daunted by challenges. One hurdle he faced was difficulty with transportation for his ice cream deliveries. This prompted him to secure another loan from the co-operative to purchase a vehicle, allowing him to streamline his operations. The MSU-IIT NMPC proved to be a true partner in Mr. Opeña’s success story. The co-op provided him with financial support during difficult times, including the loss of his father and the hospitalization of his youngest child. The Sunshine plan, a program offered by the cooperative, was there for him during his time of need. Opeña’s most recent loan has improved his delivery service and expanded his business reach. This investment reflects his confidence in the future of his ice cream business. Thanks to the support of MSU-IIT NMPC, Opeña’s hard work and determination have paid off. His ice cream business has thrived, enabling him to finance his daughter’s college education. His success extends beyond his own family. He was able to purchase a house and lot. The values and principles promoted by the cooperative, such as cooperation and mutual help, have fostered positive relationships between Mr. Opeña and his customers. The story of Opeña is an inspiration to aspiring entrepreneurs. Opeña’s entrepreneurial spirit, coupled with the cooperative’s financial support and guidance, enabled him to transform his business from a sari-sari store to a successful ice cream dealership, providing employment opportunities and improving his family’s life.
FROM STARTING ANEW TO BUILDING A RESORT The Story of Dr. Aimee Mandawe Paredes of DOMMUPCO Dr. Aimee Mandawe Paredes is a shining example of how Davao Oriental Market Multipurpose Cooperative (DOMMUPCO) empowers its members. In 2010, Dr. Paredes took over a clinic, inheriting the responsibility of not only running it but also renovating it. She faced the challenges of starting from scratch, needing to establish a laboratory and pharmacy alongside managing patient admissions to Saint Camillus Hospital. Her journey took a fortunate turn in 2012 when she became a member of DOMMUPCO. The co-operative provided her with the financial backing she needed to achieve her goals. Through DOMMUPCO’s loan program, Dr. Paredes was able to secure funding to purchase a beach lot. This wasn’t all – her dreams further expanded into building a resort and even starting a farm. DOMMUPCO’s support extended beyond financial aid. Dr. Paredes benefitted from the co-operative’s hospitalization, mortuary, and consultation services. The co-operative also partnered with her on medical missions and free consultation projects, giving her valuable exposure and the opportunity to give back to the community. Dr. Paredes’ success story highlights the power of co-operative efforts. In 2015, DOMMUPCO granted her a loan to secure a prime beach lot, laying the foundation for her resort. Then, in 2022, after faithfully repaying the loan, DOMMUPCO provided her with another hefty loan to help construct the resort building. With DOMMUPCO’s support, Dr. Paredes’ dreams transformed into reality. She was able to establish a resort, becoming a small business owner and an employer in her community. She provides her employees with benefits, further contributing to the community’s well-being. Dr. Paredes shows the transformative power of cooperation and how DOMMUPCO has empowered her to not only rebuild her clinic but to achieve even greater milestones and becoming a successful entrepreneur.
Operation Pagtinabangay: ‘We Help As One’ a success in Davao del Norte CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY, Philippines — In the face of adversity, the true spirit of community shines brightest. This sentiment was brought to life through the relief operations aptly titled “We Help As One,” relating to MASS-SPECC Cooperative Development Center’s Operation Pagtinabangay, which helped the residents of Panabo City, Sto. Tomas, Tagum, BE Dujali, and Carmen, Davao del Norte, who were affected by the recent floods, as reported by Panabo Multipurpose Cooperative. From February 2 onwards, their concerted efforts sought to provide essential support to those stricken by the calamity. A total of 1,715 individuals and families from 14 barangays, co-op members and non-members alike, received assistance during this critical time. The heart of the initiative lay in the distribution of essential supplies, including 1,215 grocery packs, meals, clothes, and 500 bottles of 25L bottled water in partnership with Sabon Depot Panabo. These aid packages aimed to alleviate their immediate needs in the aftermath of the floods. Behind every act of compassion lies a network of support. The success of “We Help As One” would not have been possible without the generous contributions from their donors and the tireless dedication of their volunteers. This is also part of MASS-SPECC’s Sustainable Co-ops (SCOOPS) Program, where where rallying for solidarity stands as a pivotal component. Panabo MPC has expressed its gratitude to MASS-SPECC Cooperative Development Center as one of the donors of the said activity. “On behalf of Panabo Multipurpose Cooperative, we would like to extend our heartfelt and enormous appreciation for your generous donation in response to the recent floods that affected our members and the community of Davao del Norte,” wrote Panabo MPC CEO Arlene T Ruedas to MASS-SPECC CEO Bernadette Toledo. “We were somehow caught off-guard witnessing how massive the impact of the floods was. However, your swift and compassionate response to our request has helped us extend immediate support to those affected by the natural disaster and provide them hope to rebuild and recover from their losses.” The activity was able to raise and distribute relief packages amounting to a total of Php541,572 (as of March 8, 2024). Through this activity, co-operatives not only provided relief but also nurtured the values of solidarity and resilience within their communities and the co-op movement as a whole. READ MORE Operation Pagtinabangay: ‘We Help As One’ a success in Davao del Norte Operation Pagtinabangay: ‘We Help As One’ a success in Davao… Read More March 28, 2024 mass-specc unveils scoops program in an environmental forum let’s go scoops: mass-specc unveils scoops program in environmental forum… Read More January 17, 2024 MASS-SPECC hosts successful 2nd round of face-to-face ownership meetings MASS-SPECC CONDUCTS SUCCESSFUL 2ND ROUND OF FACE-TO-FACE OWNERSHIP MEETINGS To… Read More January 8, 2024 Load More
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MASS-SPECC celebrates Int’l Women’s Day with COOPera’tEBA: Eba Talks, women entrepreneurs CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY, Philippines — In celebration of International Women’s Day last March 8, 2024, MASS-SPECC Cooperative Development Center, in collaboration with Andam Higala, Inc., proudly introduced the “COOPera’tEBA: A Gender and Development Program.” The program kicked off with “EBA Talks,” an enlightening online discourse featuring distinguished women entrepreneurs who generously shared their remarkable journeys and invaluable insights for achieving business success. This groundbreaking initiative aims to engage, equip, and empower women entrepreneurs within the co-operative sector, aligning with the theme of #IWD2024, “Invest in Women: Accelerate Progress.” Notable speakers included Queritess Queja, Executive Director of Oro Chamber of Commerce, whose diverse ventures encompass office space rentals, Ilocandia restaurant management, and poultry and farming enterprises. Also present was Gemma Dela Vega Emata, Vice President of Oro Chamber of Commerce and an innovative force behind Cocosavor, a coconut-based condiment recognized as a Regional and National Finalist in the Development of FIC Competency, facilitating the transition of new products from concept to market launch. Their narratives provided inspiration for aspiring women entrepreneurs, particularly within the Mindanawon co-operative movement. The online event was held through Zoom and connected to Facebook Live on MASS-SPECC and Andam Higala’s page. Doris Calapiz, Women’s Representative to the MASS-SPECC Board of Directors and the GAD Committee Chairperson, delivered the opening remarks, setting the tone for an engaging and empowering discussion. “It is a global day to celebrate and recognize women’s social, economic, cultural, and political achievements,” said Calapiz. “Today is also a reminder for all of us to realize women’s potential and create a world where every woman feels safe and empowered.” Carmel Neri-Dytingco, MASS-SPECC Strategic Communication Unit Officer and GAD Focal Person, provided insights into the COOPera’tEBA Program and its salient details. She mentioned that the “EBA Talks” was the first component of the developing COOPera’tEBA Program, designed to foster entrepreneurship discourse and provide a platform for sharing success stories, experiences, and best practices to inspire emerging women entrepreneurs in Mindanao. The event also featured Ma. Alexandrea Venilda Portillo, Chairperson of Andam Higala Inc., who shed light on the collaborative efforts driving this initiative forward. Over 60 member co-operative attendees participated in interactive sessions, including games and raffles, adding a touch of fun to the enriching experience. MASS-SPECC Cooperative Development Center is committed to promoting social entrepreneurship and empowering women across the co-operative sector and beyond. Through initiatives like COOPera’tEBA Program, MASS-SPECC strives to create an inclusive and sustainable future where “all members enjoy a better quality of life.
let’s go scoops: mass-specc unveils scoops program in environmental forum CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY — In a bid to foster informed environmental discussions and empower its members, MASS-SPECC Cooperative Development Center has officially launched the Sustainable Co-operatives (SCOOPS) Program. The unveiling took place during an impactful environmental forum named “Let’s Go SCOOPS: Managing Environmental Awareness and Action in the Co-operative Movement” on October 28, 2023, at the Dynasty Court Hotel in CDO. The SCOOPS Program, devised under the dedicated commitment to contribute to the UN Sustainable Development Goal No. 13, specifically targeting Climate Action, aims to steer the co-operative movement towards environmental stewardship. Addressing climate crises The forum participated by 111 attendees from 53 co-operatives featured prominent figures in climate action, such as environmental expert Annalyn Mejares and Pat Pangantihon from the Philippine Movement for Climate Justice. Mejares delved deep into the critical aspects of environmental awareness in the context of climate change. Her comprehensive discussion spanned the interconnectedness of environmental degradation, climate shifts, and the imperative need for heightened consciousness regarding these issues. She explained the intricate links between human activities, such as rampant industrialization and unsustainable practices, and the escalating climate crises witnessed worldwide. Her presentation emphasized the urgent necessity for widespread awareness and proactive measures to address these ecological challenges. On the other hand, Pangantihon tackled the pressing topic of “Climate Justice and Climate Crisis: What Future?” showing the disparities in climate impacts and the disproportionate burden borne by marginalized communities. Pangantihon’s thought-provoking discussion resonated with the need for a future that prioritizes justice, fairness, and inclusivity in the face of the unfolding climate crisis. Both presentations not only raised awareness but also spurred attendees to contemplate actionable strategies and societal responsibilities in mitigating the impacts of climate change while striving for a more equitable and sustainable future. Leading role in SCOOPS The SCOOPS Program marks a groundbreaking initiative, signaling a new era of sustainability within the co-operative sector, empowering co-ops to take a leading role in advocating for sustainability. With the guiding theme of “Promoting Environmental Awareness and Action in the Co-operative Movement,” this initiative equips co-operatives with essential knowledge and tools to bring about tangible changes in combating climate change. The program’s objectives include reducing environmental footprints, making informed decisions prioritizing sustainability, and actively contributing to global efforts against climate change. Highlighting the urgency, MASS-SPECC CEO Bernadette Toledo emphasized the Philippines’ vulnerability, ranking as the third most disaster-prone country in the world, and contributing significantly to global ocean plastic waste. “Given these pressing challenges, it is imperative that we, as cooperative enterprises, actively contribute to mitigating and managing the destructive effects of climate change on the lives and livelihoods of our people,” Toledo shared. “This responsibility extends not only to our present members but also to future generations and as value-based enterprises, it is our duty to partake in these efforts.” Co-operatives in climate action In 2022, the Co-operative Movement Strategic Plan was approved, which aims to foster the growth and prosperity of co-operative enterprises. “It is vital to ensure that this growth is inclusive, benefiting all members and improving their overall well-being and quality of life, particularly those who are less privileged among us,” shares Toledo. SCOOPS, beyond being a mere program, stands as a “catalyst for transformation” for embodying a commitment to building a community of “environmentally conscious co-operatives dedicated toward a more sustainable and resilient future.” MASS-SPECC aims to track the number of co-ops that embrace the SCOOPS program, which promotes sustainable practices. “By adhering to these principles and working collectively towards our objectives, we can forge a path towards a more sustainable future for our co-operative movement and pave the way for the holistic well-being of our members and communities,” Toledo shared.
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A Watershed Moment Grow members to grow the co-operative. This is the paradigm shift that will help ensure that co-operatives in Mindanao remain the people-centered enterprise envisioned by the pioneers. (Photo Source: Oro Integrated Cooperative Facebook Page) In August 2016, MASS SPECC celebrated its 50th anniversary with the theme “50 years of growing co-operatives into a movement.” It captured the original thinking of the co-op pioneers in Mindanao that co-operatives were a movement of people, who aspired to develop themselves and their communities. This meant not only that members of the co-operative had to be active participants in its growth and development but also that the success of the co-operative enterprise translated into their well-being and in the improvement in their lives. The theme also captured the ambition of the pioneers to see co-operatives working together so that they can contribute effectively to the economy and to society as a whole. By 2016, co-operatives in Mindanao had already grown into multimillion enterprises. Some had even crossed the billion-asset threshold, earning the bragging rights of being billionaires. With all the external manifestations of financial growth already visible – buildings and offices comparable to established businesses, expanding network of branches, etc. – there was no escaping the question: have co-operatives become a real people’s movement, with the primacy of members at the core of their belief system? As the explanation on the theme of the anniversary noted: As MASS SPECC celebrates its 50th year of existence in 2016, it may be well for present leaders, managers and staff of the federation and its affiliate co-operatives to ask themselves: Are the beliefs and the vision of the pioneers of the organization still relevant today? If so, how far have we realized that vision? If not, what is our alternative vision that is compelling enough to inspire the present and future generation? These questions led to the collective reflection on the state of the co-op movement in Mindanao. Discussions and conversations around these questions transpired at all levels of the organization – from the co-operative clusters that make up the base of the federation to the regional ownership meetings to the general assembly. Indeed, the 50th anniversary was a watershed moment that triggered internal reflections and a growing realization of the need for change. A Growing Consciousness One such realization was that co-op leaders and managers had been preoccupied with growing the business side of the co-operative enterprise. Growth was measured in terms of increase in assets, in deposits and share capital, in loan portfolio, in income and other financial indicators. Growth was also measured in terms of expansion in geographical reach with the establishment of branches in areas outside of home base as well as expansion of “customer” base with the increase in membership. Growth was also measured in terms of investments in new business undertakings that could contribute to a bigger bottom line. This collective view of growth assumed and took it for granted that members, who are the main source of the co-operative’s capital and income, were the beneficiaries of such growth. After all, growth in loan portfolio meant more members had access to the co-operative’s products and services. And when the co-operative invested in business activities that did not directly address the needs and requirements of members, they would still benefit from the income coming these investments by way of more dividends – never mind if such dividends, on a per capita basis, were only marginal given that the average share capital of most members was relatively small. This assumption, of course, did not hold water when viewed against reality. Not all members had equal access to the products and services of the co-operative. Neither were the benefits shared equally among them. In an independent study conducted in Mindanao to look into the state of well-being of members of co-operatives under MASS SPECC, it was established that at least 21% of members remained poor or became poor after 10 to 15 years of membership. In other words, not all members shared the growth story of co-operatives. Fortunately, co-op leaders under the federation recognized this disturbing reality and decided to do something about it. In 2018, they decided to adopt a new vision for the co-op movement in Mindanao: all members enjoy better of life. This vision was adopted by most co-operatives as their own. And in a series of consultations from the ground up, they decided to translate this vision into reality. They agreed on economic indicators and measures to check on the well-being of individual members. And they agreed to monitor the achievement of this vision every year. The year 2023 is the initial period the monitoring system has been put in place. Forty-eight (48) co-operatives have started gathering data from individual members. To date eleven (11) of them have completed the data gathering and they will form the first group of co-operatives that are able to have a complete profile of their members and establish their economic status. More co-operatives are expected to join this effort next year and in the coming years. The data gathering will be done on a yearly basis in order to track the change in the economic status of members. Member-level interventions will then be undertaken to assist members, especially the poor and the low-income among them. A Growing Commitment Although majority of co-operatives under MASS SPECC have yet to join this effort, the fact that it has been started by some as an example means that a paradigm shift is already taking place, a shift that will place the primacy of members at the forefront of co-operative development and their well-being and welfare as the true measure of co-op success, as envisioned by the pioneers of the movement in Mindanao. The general assembly of the federation approved last year the 5-year Co-op Movement Strategic Plan which will institutionalize the strategy of “grow members to grow the co-operative.” The growing commitment of co-operatives under MASS SPECC to sustain the effort will surely change
