Co-op News

In solidarity with the country’s co-operative movement, MASS-SPECC embraced this year’s National Co-operative Month with the theme, “Cooperatives: Stronger Together Today for a Brighter Tomorrow,” through meaningful participation in several impactful events across Region 10. Highlighting its commitment to co-operative unity and community empowerment, MASS-SPECC actively joined the month-long festivities, organized a unique movement initiative, and contributed to environmental sustainability.

On October 6, 2024, the Co-op Month celebration launched in grand fashion, with MASS-SPECC participating in the Opening Salvo and the CEO’s Cup Opening Program. This major event brought together 255 co-ops from across the region, all united under the shared vision of promoting co-operative values. The day began with a Holy Eucharist and a grand parade through the streets of Cagayan de Oro City, symbolizing the collective strength of the co-op movement. The activity culminated during the Opening Program at the Xavier University Covered Courts, showcasing the competitive spirit, solidarity, and growth within the co-op community.

As part of its continued efforts to promote sustainability and environmental care, MASS-SPECC also participated in the “Together We Plant, Together We Thrive” tree-planting event on October 12, 2024, in collaboration with the Regional Cooperative Development Council (RCDC) and the City Local Environment and Natural Resources Office (CLENRO). The co-operatives planted 200 seedlings at Camarahan Ridge in Pagatpat, Cagayan de Oro City. This initiative emphasized the importance of collective responsibility in safeguarding the environment, with participants planting trees not just for today but for future generations to enjoy a greener, more resilient world.

MASS-SPECC also spearheaded two special online initiatives for the Co-op Month celebration: the My #CoopHEROtive Story Reels Challenge and the Co-op Whiz: An Online Co-op Trivia Challenge.

The My #CoopHEROtive Story Reels Challenge invited member co-ops to share stories of heroism, hope, and aspirations through short vertical-form videos. These stories reflect the spirit of unity, gender equality, environmental sustainability, and youth empowerment. By highlighting unsung heroes within the co-op sector, this initiative amplified the positive impacts of co-ops and inspired pride among co-operators.

Meanwhile, the Co-op Whiz provided a fun and educational way to engage the public while promoting co-op identity. Hosted on Facebook, the activity featured weekly co-op-related trivia questions posted throughout October. Participants shared their answers by posting their responses, and correct entries were entered into a raffle. To add excitement, MASS-SPECC held four Facebook Live sessions for the raffle draws, during which additional trivia questions were shared to further promote the co-op identity. Spread over the entire initiative, around 90 participants actively joined, creating a lively and interactive platform that strengthened awareness of the co-operative movement.

Through these efforts, MASS-SPECC demonstrated its commitment to cooperation, community, and sustainable growth. By fostering collaboration, sharing inspiring stories, and promoting the co-operative identity in engaging ways, the organization continues to strengthen the co-operative movement.

With the successful conclusion of the Co-op Month, MASS-SPECC reaffirms that co-ops are not just business entities but also powerful forces for social change, environmental stewardship, and community development. Together, they are building a brighter tomorrow for all.