CO-OP news

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

CO-OPvention 2024 shines spotlight on ‘inclusive growth and community resilience’ CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY, PHILIPPINES — MASS-SPECC Cooperative Development Center, the largest regional co-op federation in Mindanao with over 300 primary co-operatives, successfully held the 2024 MASS-SPECC CO-OPvention from May 28 to 30 in Cagayan de Oro City. The event featured the Managers’ Congress, the 54th Co-op Leaders’ Congress, and the 50th General Assembly, drawing co-op leaders from all over the Philippines, but mostly from Mindanao. This year’s CO-OPvention focused on the theme “CO-Operating for Inclusive Growth and Community Resilience,” driven by the need to ensure that all members benefit equally from cooperative growth. The event emphasized the importance of leveraging digital technology to promote financial inclusivity and provide greater access to financial services for members. Additionally, the CO-OPvention called for collective action among cooperatives to enhance the delivery of equitable services and contribute significantly to environmental preservation. The event aimed to position cooperatives as pivotal contributors to national development, echoing the cooperative principle of mutual aid and the importance of sustained individual and collective commitments for community improvement. On the first day of the CO-OPvention, May 28, co-operative leaders from across Mindanao converged at the Mallberry Suites for a day of insightful discussions and strategic planning at the Managers’ Congress organized by the Mindanao Cooperative Managers Club (MCMC). Keynote speaker Dr. Jesus P. Estanislao, a distinguished figure in corporate governance and founder of the Institute of Corporate Directors, delivered an impactful address on ethical business practices crucial for co-op managers. His presentation highlighted the importance of governance frameworks in sustaining co-operative success amidst evolving economic landscapes. The Managers’ Congress not only served as a platform for learning and collaboration but also reaffirmed the commitment of Mindanao’s co-operative leaders to uphold ethical standards and drive sustainable development in their communities.  The 54th Co-op Leaders’ Congress, held on May 29, resonated with a powerful theme: “CO-Operating for Inclusive Growth and Community Resilience.” Bringing together co-operative leaders and stakeholders from across Mindanao, the congress aimed to forge a path towards sustainable development and resilience in the face of challenges. Discussions highlighted the transformative impact of digital technology in enhancing financial services accessibility, particularly in underserved rural areas where co-operatives are crucial lifelines.  Representatives from the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) and Peppermint Innovation Ltd, a trailblazer in financial technology emphasized the growing acceptance of digital payments among diverse socioeconomic groups, showcasing co-op opportunities to leverage technology for broader financial inclusion. Peppermint and MASS-SPECC are united not merely for commercial endeavors but to usher in a new era of digital financial inclusion through the Pinoy Coop Mobile (PCM) app, where members can send money between Pinoy Coop ATM accounts, check balances, and access wallet services via Instapay or PESONet, eLoad, and bills payment, among other features.  With sessions focusing on innovation, inclusivity, and resilience, co-operatives are well-positioned to navigate future challenges and foster lasting impacts in their respective communities. The 50th General Assembly of co-operative leaders concluded on May 30, where co-operative leaders reconvened to address crucial agenda items, including the eagerly awaited 2024 Election Results and the Proclamation of Winners. The assembly proceeded with diligence and transparency, ensuring the democratic process in electing new leaders who will steer co-operative initiatives forward in the coming years. The 50th General Assembly celebrated co-operative achievements and reaffirmed their pivotal role in fostering inclusive growth and resilience within local communities.  As co-ops look towards the future, they remain steadfast in their mission to empower members and contribute meaningfully to sustainable development across the region MASS-SPECC conducts financial literacy training of trainers for co-op youth As part of its ongoing commitment to empowering the youth… Read More msp-adminOctober 9, 2024 ‘Panaghugpong’ event paves way for MAFFISCO youth formation In a significant step towards empowering the next generation of… Read More msp-adminOctober 9, 2024 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 msp-adminSeptember 10, 2024 Load More

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.