Senator Christopher “Bong” Go emphasized the crucial role of government support in empowering cooperatives, highlighting their significant contribution to providing livelihood opportunities and increasing the income of their members.

Through initiatives like the Malasakit sa Kooperatiba program, Senator Go continues to champion measures aimed at uplifting small organizations and cooperatives across the country.

An example of the program’s impact is the Matilo Santo Niño Water Service Cooperative (MASTOWASECO), based in Nabunturan, Davao de Oro.

The cooperative, which struggled to maintain its water supply after a series of devastating earthquakes struck the province, received a financial grant under the Malasakit sa Kooperatiba program, initiated by the Cooperative Development Authority (CDA) with Go’s support.

“We know the important role cooperatives play in the development of our local economy, especially in the communities we serve. Each of your organizations is an instrument of compassion, unity, and hope for your members,” Go remarked, emphasizing cooperatives’ role as pillars of progress and unity in their areas.

The financial support, facilitated through CDA and advocated by Go, was aimed at strengthening the capacity of these cooperatives to improve members’ livelihoods and provide better opportunities.

Representatives of MASTOWASECO shared how the grant helped restore their operations: “Programs that help small organizations like this one are really good and helpful. That’s why MASTOWASECO is very grateful to be one of the beneficiaries of the Malasakit sa Kooperatiba program, supported by Senator Bong Go. The assistance we received has been a big help in improving our cooperative, as it allowed us to take actions to increase the water supply that is very much needed by the members of the cooperative and the community.”

The testimonial underscores how such interventions are pivotal for cooperatives, enabling them to address pressing challenges and sustain services for their members and communities.

The Malasakit sa Kooperatiba program is part of the CDA’s Human Capital Development Program, which Senator Go, a member of the Senate Committee on Cooperatives and vice chairperson of the Senate Finance Committee, has been advocating for in the Senate. His efforts include ensuring the inclusion of additional funding for cooperative programs in the national budget.

“Through collaboration with the Cooperative Development Authority, we fought for the Malasakit sa Kooperatiba program to help support your projects that will develop your communities and help more members,” he added.

Senator Go reaffirmed his commitment to supporting cooperatives, recognizing their immense contributions to local economies and social development.

“Cooperatives are essential to building stronger and more self-reliant communities. By supporting them, we are not just helping small organizations thrive but also empowering ordinary Filipinos to improve their livelihoods. Programs like Malasakit sa Kooperatiba are tangible proof of our dedication to ensuring inclusive progress for all,” Senator Go stated.

A staunch advocate for cooperative development, Senator Go co-authored and co-sponsored Republic Act (RA) 11502, which designates October as National Cooperative Month, celebrating the contributions and achievements of cooperatives across the country.

Additionally, he supported the passage of RA 11535 as one of its co-authors and co-sponsors, mandating the appointment of Cooperatives Development Officers at the municipal, city, and provincial levels to further strengthen cooperative growth and participation in governance.

He also encouraged local governments and other stakeholders to collaborate in strengthening cooperatives and creating more opportunities for Filipinos to participate in cooperative ventures.

The Malasakit sa Kooperatiba program remains a testament to Senator Go’s vision of inclusive governance and his advocacy for grassroots development. With continuous support for cooperatives, the program is expected to further enhance the lives of countless members and their communities across the country. TDT