Asides

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.