Co-op News

The co-operative movement in Northern Mindanao came together in a vibrant celebration of unity, service, and shared growth during the Region 10 Co-operative Month in Cagayan de Oro City, bearing the theme “Cooperatives United in Purpose and Action, Sharing Prosperity to Build A Better World.” 

The month-long celebration is in the observance of October as the National Co-operative Month, bringing together co-op leaders, members, and development partners from across the region. Organized through the Regional Cooperative Development Council (RCDC), the observance featured a series of activities including the opening ceremony, sportsfest, training sessions, and culminating activities that highlighted the collective strength and impact of co-operatives in Northern Mindanao.

People-centered enterprises

Representatives from the Cooperative Development Authority (CDA), RCDC, local government units, and hundreds of co-op leaders attended both the opening ceremony on October 5 and the culmination on October 30—demonstrating the continued solidarity of the co-operative sector in advancing inclusive growth and community development.

In his message delivered by Roy Hilario Raagas of the City Administration Office, Cagayan de Oro City Mayor Rolando “Klarex” Uy expressed his appreciation for the vital role of co-operatives in promoting livelihoods, financial inclusion, and community resilience.

“Truly, co-operatives are people-centered enterprises empowering people,” he said. “This year’s celebration reminds us that cooperation is key to resilience and progress.”

Meanwhile, Hon. Gilda “Gigi” Go, Chairperson of the City Council’s Committee on Labor, Employment, and Co-operatives, called on co-operators to sustain innovation and inclusivity within the movement.

“When I look out at this crowd, I see a powerful network of self-help, resilience, and hope,” she said. “The principles of democracy, equality, and solidarity have always been the bedrock of our co-operatives’ success.”

Wins at the sportsfest

A highlight of the celebration was the Region 10 Co-operative Sportsfest dubbed as the CEOs Cup, where MASS-SPECC actively participated in various sporting events that fostered camaraderie and healthy competition among co-operatives.

MASS-SPECC teams competed in badminton, billiards, bowling, basketball, and e-games (Mobile Legends)—reflecting the federation’s strong engagement in promoting teamwork, wellness, and solidarity beyond the workplace.

This active participation translated into notable achievements, with MASS-SPECC securing Champion titles in Badminton Women’s Doubles and Men’s Doubles, 1st Runner-Up in Badminton Mixed Doubles, and 2nd Runner-Up finishes in Billiard Singles, Billiard Doubles, and Bowling (Beginner Category).

In recognition of its valuable contribution to the success of the event, MASS-SPECC was awarded a plaque of appreciation as a Gold Sponsor, underscoring its continued commitment to supporting co-operative initiatives and activities at the region.

Further strengthening its advocacy, MASS-SPECC also mounted a display and sale of International Year of Cooperatives (IYC) merchandise, with proceeds dedicated to a social cause—reinforcing that cooperation extends beyond competition and into service.

The National Co-operative Month marks a series of regional events, training sessions, and community activities highlighting the transformative role of co-operatives in nation-building.

“It’s time to invite the youth sector because they hold the future of co-operatives in the Philippines,” shared CDA Undersecretary Alexander Raquepo. “Co-operatives can only be sustained if the younger generations are trained—and if they learn to recognize and love co-operatives.”

Through the continued collaboration of MASS-SPECC Cooperative Development Center, RCDC, CDA, and partner institutions, the Region 10 co-operative sector stands firm in its commitment to share and grow together—building a better world through cooperation.