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AGAR-AGAR: OCEAN’S BOUNTY The Story of Sonia Balansag of MSU-IIT National Multi-Purpose Cooperative Sonia Balansag, a 51-year-old Lumad from Birocoy, Zamboanga del Sur, knows the rhythm of the sea like the back of her hand. For years, she and her husband, Antonio, cast their nets, making a living through traditional fishing. While it provided for their basic needs, financial security remained a distant dream. “The ocean can be generous,” Sonia says, “but it can also be unpredictable.”  Limited catches and fluctuating fish prices made financial stability a constant struggle. Then, in 2017, Sonia’s life took an unexpected turn. She was approached by Editha Martonito, a representative of MSU-IIT National Multi-Purpose Cooperative (MSU-IIT NMPC).  Editha introduced Sonia to the co-operative’s seaweed farming program, a revolutionary approach to income generation in coastal communities. Intrigued by the potential, Sonia decided to take a leap of faith. She joined MSU-IIT NMPC, eager to explore this new opportunity. The co-op provided her with the training and resources she needed to get started, including a crucial loan to kickstart her agar-agar business. Agar-agar, a gelatinous substance extracted from seaweed, is a valuable commodity used in food production, pharmaceuticals, and various industries.  With the loan, Sonia was able to expand her seaweed farming operation, purchasing necessary equipment and increasing her production capacity. “Our income has significantly increased,” Sonia explains. “Because of the agar-agar, our way of life has become more comfortable.” The financial stability has brought a wave of positive changes for the Balansag family. “We’ve been able to acquire new properties and assets,” says Antonio, Sonia’s husband. “We even replaced our old car with a new one!” But the benefits extend beyond material possessions.  “The agar-agar business has improved our quality of life in so many ways,” Sonia beams.  “We can now afford to provide better for our family, including our children’s education.” Sonia’s story is a shining example of how MASS-SPECC empowers coastal communities. By providing access to knowledge, resources, and financing, the co-operative equips individuals like Sonia to cultivate a sustainable and lucrative livelihood from the very waters they’ve always known. As Sonia looks towards the future, her vision is clear.  Her plans include expanding the seaweed farm further and inspiring other Lumad families to embrace the potential of seaweed production. Sonia’s journey is truly a story of hope, resilience, and the power of harnessing the ocean’s bounty for a brighter future.

FROM CURIOSITY TO LIVESTOCK BUSINESS OWNER The Story of Chona G. Magtuba of Davao Oriental Market Multipurpose Cooperative In the bustling markets of Davao City, Chona G. Magtuba, a 47-year-old mother of four, navigates the familiar crowd with a confident stride. A member of the Davao Oriental Market Multipurpose Cooperative (DOMMUPCO) for a decade now, Chona’s journey with the co-op began with a simple question – a curiosity sparked by her friend’s frequent cash purchases of dressed chicken. It was this curiosity that led Chona to the doors of DOMMUPCO, and into a world of opportunity. DOMMUPCO became more than just a source of fresh chicken for Chona. It transformed into a springboard for her own ambitions. With the support of the co-op, she wasn’t just buying chickens, she was acquiring the tools to become a business owner herself. Their guidance and financial programs empowered Chona to take a significant leap — the purchase of a 1.2-hectare livestock farm.  This wasn’t the end of her growth, however. Fueled by her determination and the co-op’s loan program, Chona expanded her reach by opening two stalls in the public market. Chona isn’t just a successful entrepreneur; she’s a testament to the power of co-operative principles. She religiously participates in the co-op’s daily savings program, a habit that has instilled a culture of saving within her family. This dedication to saving has gone hand-in-hand with her smart utilization of the co-op’s loan program, allowing her to strategically invest back into her business and increase her share capital in DOMMUPCO. Chona’s story is an inspiration for many in Davao City. It is a narrative woven with threads of curiosity, determination, and support of a co-operative community.  As Chona looks towards the future, one thing is certain: her journey with DOMMUPCO has only just begun. Together, they will continue to write a story of success anchored on the power of collective action and shared dreams.

The Lucero Legacy A Journey of Growth and Empowerment with TIMMULCO In the heart of Bayug, Zamboanga Del Sur, there lies a story of resilience, empowerment, and community spirit intertwined with the journey of Susana B. Lucero. Her narrative unfolds within the embrace of Timbermines Multi-Purpose Cooperative (TIMMULCO), a co-operative that not only fosters economic growth but also cultivates the seeds of self-reliance and mutual support. Susana’s tale begins in the early 2000s, where she ventured into entrepreneurship with an eatery catering predominantly to municipal employees. The aroma of her home-cooked meals became a staple, drawing patrons from all walks of life. It was during this period that she first encountered TIMMULCO, finding solace in its philosophy of self-help and mutual aid. She invested her capital into the co-operative, recognizing it as a cornerstone for her aspirations. In 2007, when the winds of opportunity whispered, she seized the chance and availed an express loan from TIMMULCO. With the support of her husband, they embarked on a journey into agriculture, cultivating their farm with the funds obtained. The years unfolded, and in 2010, Susana and her husband decided to transition their business endeavors to a refreshment parlor in Poblacion Bayug. The move marked a new chapter, accompanied by challenges and triumphs. Yet, through it all, TIMMULCO stood as a beacon of support, offering micro-business loans to bolster their capitalization. As their enterprise flourished, so did their reliance on TIMMULCO’s financial assistance. Her journey echoed with the sentiment of gratitude, encapsulated in her words, “Napalaki nang naitulong ng TIMMULCO sa paglaki ng aming negosyo lalo na sa aming buhay” (TIMMULCO has greatly helped in the growth of our business especially in our lives). Susana’s story speaks of empowerment and generational change. With her children now at the helm of their enterprise, she envisions a future shaped by their education and the values instilled by TIMMULCO. Moreover, her recent venture into a piggery project signifies not only diversification but also a testament to her entrepreneurial spirit. In Susana’s eyes, winning a MICMA award is not merely a recognition of her achievements but a celebration of the co-operative identity that propelled her forward. Her gaze is fixed on the horizon of possibilities, where the legacy of the Lucero family continues to thrive, nurtured by the roots of community and cooperation.

FROM WORKER TO MULTIPRENEUR The Story of John G. Cagalitan of Makilala Multi-Purpose Cooperative In the heart of Cotabato lives John G. Cagalitan, whose story began not as a multipreneur, but as a worker striving to build a better life. In 2012, he found a partner in progress — Makilala Multi-Purpose Cooperative (MAK-MPC). Financial hurdles initially held John back. But MAK-MPC saw potential where others might not. Through a loan from the co-operative, John secured the capital he needed to launch his first business: videoke machine-making. This wasn’t just a business; it was a turning point. MAK-MPC doesn’t simply provide money; they empower their members. John, fueled by his entrepreneurial spirit, leveraged the success of his videoke business to secure additional loans. These loans became the stepping stones to new ventures — CCTV installation and WiFi vendo machines. John’s hard work, coupled with MAK-MPC’s support, paved the way for remarkable achievements. By 2020, John wasn’t just a businessman; he was a property owner. His success extended beyond his own walls. Last December, John shared his good fortune with his barangay, distributing gifts to his neighbors.  John’s story paves the way for aspiring entrepreneurs. It’s a powerful reminder that with a co-op like MAK-MPC by your side, dreams can transform into reality. 

DIVERSIFIED BUSINESSES WITH TIMMULCO The Story of Maribeth Dances of Timbermines Multi-Purpose Cooperative Maribeth Dances is a prime example of how a co-operative like Timbermines Multi-Purpose Cooperative (TIMULCO) can empower its members to achieve their dreams. A resident of Zambuanga del Sur, Maribeth has been a member of TIMULCO since 2009. Maribeth’s entrepreneurial journey began with a sari-sari store. However, her ambitions extended beyond running a small store. She desired additional funds to expand her copra and charcoal buying businesses. TIMULCO’s financial literacy seminars proved to be a valuable resource, equipping Maribeth with the knowledge she needed to make sound business decisions. The cooperative recognizes the importance of financial literacy and offers free financial seminars to its members. These seminars equip members with the necessary knowledge and skills to manage their finances effectively and make informed business decisions. Maribeth’s participation in these seminars proved to be instrumental in her success. She took advantage of TIMULCO’s loan programs to secure funding for the expansion of her copra and charcoal buying businesses. In 2017, she used a loan to purchase a load truck to facilitate deliveries for her business. Throughout the years, Maribeth has consistently demonstrated her commitment to TIMULCO by being a good standing Diamond class member. This commitment has translated into benefits for Maribeth’s businesses. Her Diamond class status granted her access to better loan plans with lower interest rates.  With this financial support from TIMULCO, Maribeth was able to diversify her business ventures. In 2017, she secured a loan to start a hollow block making business. Her most recent loan, secured in 2023, allowed her to embark on a new venture – raising pigs. As a member of TIMULCO, Maribeth has not only achieved financial success but also grown her businesses and expanded into new ventures. TIMULCO’s financial support, educational programs, and commitment to its members have been instrumental in her journey.

A THRIVING AGRIVET AND TRUCKING BUSINESS The Story of Lea Mae Lopez Escobarte of Bansalan Multi-Purpose Cooperative Lea Mae Lopez Escobarte exemplifies the power of co-operative support in achieving dreams. A member of Bansalan Multipurpose Cooperative since she was a child, Lea Mae has grown her businesses with the co-op’s strong support.  She began her entrepreneurial journey by opening an internet cafe after graduating from college. Her business acumen led to the successful opening of three branches across Davao, Digos, and Matanao. However, the pandemic forced her to close these cafes. Undeterred, Lea Mae turned to Bansalan MPC for assistance. The co-operative provided her with the financial resources and support she needed to embark on new ventures. With a loan from the cooperative, Lea Mae established a thriving AgriVet business.  Her success story doesn’t end there. Last year, Lea Mae launched a trucking business. Once again, Bansalan MPC proved to be a pillar of support, providing the loans necessary to purchase multiple trucks. Lea Mae’s trucks are now listed on Shopee, a testament to her business growth.  Lea Mae credits Bansalan MPC’s free trainings and seminars for equipping her with valuable knowledge to navigate the business landscape. She expresses her deep gratitude for the co-operative’s support, highlighting that they find ways to assist members regardless of the amount needed.  She views Bansalan MPC as more than just a financial institution; it’s a partner in building her family’s future.  She emphasizes that the co-operative’s core values align with her own – strength, courage and compassion. These values fuel her determination to succeed. Looking ahead, Lea Mae plans to purchase another truck with the continued help of Bansalan MPC. Her story inspires others to pursue their dreams through cooperation and mutual support. Bansalan MPC’s commitment to its members is evident in Lea Mae’s story. The co-op offers various financial products tailored to fit individual needs. In addition to financial support. This holistic approach fosters business growth and personal development among its members. Lea Mae’s journey is a powerful illustration of how Bansalan MPC transforms lives to build successful businesses, secure a brighter future for their families, and contribute to the community’s economic development.