Co-op News

As the digital landscape evolves at a rapid pace, co-operatives face both unprecedented challenges and transformative opportunities.

This was the central theme of the Pinoy Coop Forum on Cybersecurity and Artificial Intelligence, held at Mallberry Suites Business Hotel, Cagayan de Oro City. Organized by MASS-SPECC in partnership with EPH Secure Systems on October 14, 2024. 

The event brought together over 100 delegates from 47 co-operatives across Mindanao to discuss strategies for safeguarding co-operative assets while harnessing the potential of emerging technologies. The forum also welcomed representatives from the Cooperative Development Authority – Region 10 Extension Office.

In her opening remarks, MASS-SPECC Chairperson and Women Representative to the Board of Directors, Doris B. Calapiz, celebrated the co-operative movement’s commitment to digital innovation. She highlighted MASS-SPECC’s history of technological leadership, from pioneering core banking systems in the 1990s to the recent launch of the Pinoy Coop Mobile (PCM). 

“Today’s forum is a testament to our relentless drive to ensure that our co-operatives not only survive but thrive in this ever-changing landscape. Let us build a future where our cooperatives are safeguarded, strengthened, and ready to harness the full potential of AI and cybersecurity for the benefit of our communities,” she said.

The forum featured insightful discussions from esteemed speakers, including Asian Development Bank’s Principal Knowledge Specialist Dr. Emiliano Bolongaita, Jr., Solutions Engineer George Nolasco, and IT and Finance Marketing and Sales Expert Rachel Garaygay, who explored the critical intersections of cybersecurity and AI. Delegates gained actionable insights into protecting co-operative data, improving operational efficiency, and delivering enhanced member services.

In her closing remarks, Lourdes Bernadette Luad, MASS-SPECC IT Governance Committee Chairperson and Women Representative to the Board of Directors, underscored the importance of adapting to technological advancements to ensure co-operative growth and resilience. 

“Today’s discussions have underscored the importance of being prepared for the technological advancements reshaping the co-operative landscape. Together, we have the power to strengthen our systems, secure our data, and use technology to serve our members and communities better,” she remarked.

Luad encouraged participants to translate the lessons from the forum into practical actions, helping their co-operatives thrive in the digital era​.

In addition to the forum’s insightful discussions, participants had the chance to win exciting prizes in a raffle held towards the end of the program, courtesy of Pinoy Coop Mobile, EcoFlow Power Station-Northern Mindanao, and EPH Secure Systems.

The Pinoy Coop Forum was more than a one-day event—it was a call to action, a space for collaboration, and a celebration of innovation. Through initiatives like this, MASS-SPECC reaffirms its commitment to its core advocacy of bringing Digital Solutions for Better Life.

As co-operatives continue to embrace cutting-edge technologies, they ensure that their members and communities benefit from a future that is not only digitally secure but also inclusive and prosperous.