Senator Christopher "Bong" Go visited San Fernando City, Pampanga, on Thursday, February 6, to personally support the distribution of financial grants to 47 micro-scale cooperatives from across Central Luzon under the Malasakit sa Kooperatiba program. This initiative, led by the Cooperative Development Authority (CDA), aims to provide micro and small cooperatives with the resources needed to sustain and expand their operations.

During the event, Go highlighted the vital role cooperatives play in fostering economic growth and community solidarity. He acknowledged the challenges in maintaining cooperative enterprises and commended the resilience of their members.

"Alam ko pong hindi madali ang pagtataguyod ng isang kooperatiba—kailangan ng tiyaga, dedikasyon, at higit sa lahat, pagkakaisa. Kaya naman saludo po ako sa inyong lahat," Senator Go told attendees.

The senator emphasized that cooperatives are more than just business ventures; they embody Filipino bayanihan, where members collaborate to uplift one another's livelihoods.

Go reaffirmed his commitment to advancing cooperative welfare through legislative measures and funding initiatives, including his continued support for CDA programs and advocacy for increased budget allocations for cooperative development.

"Dahil dito, patuloy kong sinusuportahan ang Cooperative Development Authority sa kanilang mga programa, tulad ng Malasakit sa Kooperatiba, na nagbibigay ng financial assistance sa micro at small cooperatives,” Go said.

“Para sa taon 2024 at 2025, itinutulak natin ang karagdagang pondo para sa Human Capital Development Program for Cooperatives, upang mas marami pang kooperatiba ang makinabang," he added, as Vice Chair of the Senate Finance Committee and a member of the Senate Committee on Cooperatives.

As part of his visit, Go distributed grocery packs, snacks, shirts, basketballs, and volleyballs to cooperative members. Some select beneficiaries also received shoes, bicycles, mobile phones, and watches.

Go also pointed to the passage of Republic Act No. 11535, which he co-authored, mandating the appointment of Cooperatives Development Officers in every municipality, city, and province. This, he explained, ensures that cooperatives are well-represented in governance, allowing for better support to reach local communities.

Senator Go assured cooperative members that he remains committed to their cause and will continue to champion policies that benefit grassroots organizations.