Co-op News

To reinforce collaborative strategies and sustain the gains of the Coop-PROPEL Project, MASS-SPECC Cooperative Development Center, in partnership with primary member co-operatives and key development stakeholders, facilitated the first Site Working Group (SWG) meetings of 2025 from July 7 to 9 in various locations across Davao del Sur.

The three-day activity brought together co-op leaders, government agencies, private sector partners, development organizations, and farmer-cluster leaders to discuss agri-programs from different agencies, co-ops’ enterprise performance, and activities for collaborations align on sustainability efforts for coconut and cacao value chain development.

Held on July 7, the first session focused on reviewing the coconut marketing operations of Makilala Multi-Purpose Cooperative (MAKMPC). 

Attended by the co-op’s top management, agri committee, and agribusiness staff, the group developed an updated operational plan and agreed on enhanced strategies to streamline coconut buying activities. 

Among the commitments were regular cluster meetings, improved coordination between the marketing team and value chain field facilitator, and stronger internal alignment.

On July 8, BCS Multipurpose Cooperative (BCSMPC) convened its first SWG meeting for 2025, bringing together partners such as MASS-SPECC, Grameen Foundation, PCA, DTI RAPID Project, CDO-GSL, and the LGU of Bansalan.

The meeting featured program updates on coconut training, financing, farm tools support, and technical assistance. 

All partners expressed a unified commitment to collaborate in delivering services that benefit coconut farmers in the area.

The final session, held on July 9, featured the SWG meeting of Malabog Integrated Enterprises Development Cooperative (MIEDECO), which highlighted opportunities in both coconut and cacao production.

Partner agencies, including MASS-SPECC, MEDA-RIISA, PCA, Franklin Baker, and the LGU of Paquibato District, shared updates on their ongoing and upcoming support services. Discussions focused on cacao processing, productivity improvements, and expanded government assistance through the CFIDP program.

The session concluded with all partners reaffirming their commitment to inter-agency coordination.

The SWG meetings demonstrated how multi-sector collaboration continues to be a vital driver of co-operative and farmer success. With updated operational plans, renewed commitments, and a clear path forward, the participating co-operatives are now better positioned to sustain the gains of the Coop-PROPEL Project and to expand opportunities in other commodities and among other member co-ops of MASS-SPECC.