SAN PEDRO CITY, Laguna (PIA) – As part of the government’s efforts to strengthen cooperative enterprises and promote sustainable economic growth, the Cooperative Development Authority (CDA) has granted 36 cooperatives in the Calabarzon and National Capital Region some P200,000 in financial aid.
For Mr. Veggies Savings and Credit Cooperative Head Rene Borlagdatan from Cabuyao, Laguna, the cash aid will sustain their operations even as he committed to utilize the funds effectively to better serve their members.
“We dream of having a convenience store that is not filled with groceries… but more of a ‘talipapa’ (satellite market) outlet. We will modernize (our talipapa), install air-conditioning units,” Borlagdatan said.
The financial aid is a government grant aimed at enhancing the capabilities of cooperatives, ensuring their continued contribution to local economies.
The initiative also seeks to provide support for business expansion, operational improvements, and community-driven projects.
CDA Asst Secretary Vergel Hilario expects the cooperatives to provide their members with the necessary resources to improve their livelihood and expand their reach.
“Don’t let the grant just run out. That grant should roll and help other members… and still be able to produce other income,” he said.
The government continues to encourage the creation and strengthening of cooperatives as vital partners in achieving inclusive growth and sustainable development across the country.
The program is under the office of Senator Imee Marcos who chairs the Senate Committee on Cooperatives. (AM/PIA 4A)
