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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. 

empowering tomorrow: charting a purpose-driven path with the mindanawon co-op movement’s gad strategic planning workshop The Mindanawon Co-operative Movement’s Gender and Development (GAD) Strategic Planning Workshop proved to be an insightful and pivotal event held on December 5-6, 2023, at The Dynasty Court Hotel in Cagayan de Oro City. The aim of the workshop was to provide a clear direction for the co-op movement by ensuring the inclusion of GAD perspectives and priorities. The event was attended by 15 co-operatives from different regions, with 13 females and five males taking part. This showed a growing interest and commitment to address GAD concerns within the co-op sector. Doris Calapiz, Women’s Representative to the Board of Directors and Chairperson of the MASS-SPECC GAD Committee, welcomed the workshop participants. Salome Ganibe, the senior consultant of the Gender Equality Resource Center (GERC) Inc. and former Executive Director of the Asian Women in Co-operative Development Forum (AWCF), acted as the resource facilitator. She provided a global and national perspective on GAD, giving invaluable insights during discussions on memorandum circulars addressing GAD and the duties and responsibilities of GAD teams within co-operatives. The workshop covered sessions on the MASS-SPECC Co-op Movement Strategic Plan, presentations of the results from the Gender Assessment Tool (GAT) from various regions utilizing the web-based GAT developed by GERC, Inc., and workshops aimed at identifying common GAD actions and intervention strategies. To consolidate a comprehensive understanding of the GAD landscape within the Mindanawon co-op movement, emphasis was placed on the submission of the web-based GAT results from primary co-ops. The significance of these submissions was highlighted during an initial presentation, where participants greatly appreciated the insights provided. During the workshop, initial assessment and plans from each respective region were formulated, but they are still to be polished and confirmed by the respective regions soon. The goal is to integrate a comprehensive GAD strategic plan into the MASS-SPECC Strategic Plan for the next three years. To accommodate the primary co-ops’ convenience of availing of the benefit of the tool, MASS-SPECC offers a three-year (2022, 2023, and 2024 data) free subscription to the web-based GAT in partnership with GERC, Inc. Member co-ops of MASS-SPECC that have fully remitted their CETF are encouraged to register and fill out the tool as soon as possible. This event provided a crucial platform for the Mindanawon Co-op Movement to consolidate efforts, share expertise, and pave the way for a more inclusive and sustainable co-op sector. “Insights and contributions gathered during this workshop will be instrumental in shaping a more gender-responsive and purpose-driven future for co-operatives in Mindanao,” shares MASS-SPECC CEO Bernadette Toledo.

MASS-SPECC CELEBRATES A MILESTONE: MANAGEMENT DEVELOPMENY PROGRAM CULMINATION MASS-SPECC Cooperative Development Center proudly marks a significant achievement as itcelebrates the culmination of its flagship Management Development Program (MDP), where dedicated learners from various co-operative backgrounds successfully completed this transformative journey.  The MDP stands as a testament to MASS-SPECC’s commitment to nurturing co-operative leaders who not only excel in their managerial roles but also embody the co-op principles at their core.   This year’s graduation ceremony, slated on November 22, 2023, at the Mallberry Suites Business Hotel, Limketkai Center in Cagayan de Oro City, proved to be a momentous occasion bringing together graduates from batches 2020 to 2023. Amid the challenges posed by the pandemic, MASS-SPECC has stood resilient, ensuring that the postponed joint graduation became a celebration to remember.      The ceremony featured special messages from Dr. Peter Davis of Leicester University (MDP Module 1 Trainer) and Cooperative Development Authority (CDA) Region 10 Director Aminoden A. Elias, adding depth and perspective to the celebration.     The event was particularly noteworthy as it featured a special discourse with Jonathan Yabut, a well-known author and motivational speaker, during the lecture forum on the management and leadership segment. Yabut’s enlightening session focused on two crucial elements of organizational success – social media marketing and championing teamwork.     Attendees online and onsite gained valuable insights and inspiration from the lecture. It is a truly valuable experience that includes the diverse facets of modern co-operative management and insights into the anatomy of successful teamwork and strategies to cultivate a collaborative environment, emphasizing the importance of transparency and collaboration among co-ops.     The ceremony also featured testimonials and commitments from the graduates, spotlighting their dedication and readiness to apply what they learned to develop their co-operatives and communities.     This celebration isn’t merely about academic accomplishments; it’s a collective affirmation of dedication, perseverance, and the commitment to uphold the co-operative movement.      MASS-SPECC Cooperative Development Center extends its warmest congratulations and gratitude to all stakeholders, partners, and supporters who joined the event, celebrating the achievements of exceptional graduates who embody the future of co-op leadership.