Joining a cooperative is often seen as a pathway to financial growth and community empowerment.
However, it is important to be aware that not all cooperatives adhere to legitimate and ethical practices.
To safeguard the public, the Cooperative Development Authority (CDA)-Regional Office 1 regularly intensifies its efforts to raise awareness and ensure that cooperatives operate with integrity.
How to spot illegitimate coop
Edilberto Unson, assistant regional director of CDA-Region 1, advised that before joining any cooperative, it is crucial to assess its credibility.
He warned, “If an organization claims to be affiliated with the CDA but cannot provide a certificate of registration, it indicates that they are not legitimately registered and may not be operating within the legal framework [of Republic Act (RA) No. 9520].”
RA No. 9520, or the Cooperative Code of the Philippines, governs cooperatives’ registration, operation, and regulation, ensuring compliance with cooperative principles, operational standards, and continuous monitoring.
Unson urged the public to verify a cooperative’s registration number, which can be confirmed or validated at a CDA office near them.
In Pangasinan, the CDA-Region 1 Extension Office is located along Barracks Highway, Barangay Bonuan Boquig in Dagupan City.
They can also be reached at (075) 202-1826 or send an email to [email protected].
Further, legitimate cooperatives should have distinguishing features, such as a business logo or signage, as well as a physical office or building to establish their operational legitimacy.
Meanwhile, all non-registered associations are reminded to register with CDA to establish their legal personality and protect their members.
This simple yet critical step can help individuals avoid falling victim to unregistered and potentially unscrupulous cooperatives.
Requirements for organizing coop
To date, CDA-Region 1 has 2,129 registered cooperatives.
Van Ian Enriquez, senior cooperative development specialist for CDA Region 1’s Cooperative Research, Information, and Training Section, explained that organizing a cooperative starts with attending a pre-registration seminar.
He explained, “This seminar outlines both the cooperative’s and the members’ expectations. It ensures that the cooperative serves its intended purpose and complies with the law.”
The seminar also offers a thorough understanding of the cooperative’s responsibilities and government regulations.
Following the seminar, interested individuals can complete their registration online at https://cs.cda.gov.ph/ecoopris/users/login.
For those who may need assistance, the CDA has assured support to help individuals understand and navigate the transition into today’s fast-paced, digital environment.
Enriquez said, “CDA provides field personnel to support individuals through the entire registration procedure, ensuring a smooth and successful completion.”
Benefits of joining coop
Freddie Cancino, 44, a dedicated member of the Lingayen Credit Cooperative for over a year, shared with the Philippine Information Agency (PIA)-Pangasinan how his involvement in the cooperative has positively impacted his family.
He said, “Sa pagsali ko sa cooperative, may mga opsyon tulad ng savings, loan, at damayan. Halimbawa, kung may mangyari sa isang miyembro, may cash assistance, at mababa ang interes. Sa savings naman, habang naglo-loan ka, may bahagi ng interes na napupunta sa iyong savings.”
(By joining the cooperative, there are options such as savings, loans, and mutual aid. For instance, if something happens to a member, there is cash assistance, and the interest rates are low. Additionally, as you take a loan, a portion of the interest goes towards your savings.)
Cancino’s experience shows how joining a cooperative can help provide financial security and support.
The CDA encourages joining or investing in cooperatives, as it provides a platform for individuals to work together, share knowledge, and achieve shared goals through mutual support.
Enriquez urged, “We invite you to explore and discover the world of cooperatives to see the practical benefits they provide, not just for individuals but for everyone. Reach out to us so we can share with you what cooperatives truly offer.”
Promote community-focused coop
Enriquez emphasized the importance of cooperatives engaging in meaningful public benefit programs in order to achieve long-term success.
He said, “Cooperatives should support not just economic goals but also the welfare of their communities.”
By focusing on these goals, cooperatives can build trust, support growth, and positively impact their communities.
With CDA’s continued advocacy, the public can be better equipped to join or organize cooperatives that uphold integrity and deliver lasting impact. (AMB/JCDR/CSS/PIA Pangasinan)
