MANILA, Philippines - Sen. Cynthia A. Villar recognizes the significant role of cooperatives to boost the country’s economy. Speaking during the Baclaran Vendors Development Cooperative’s 37th anniversary celebration at Century Seafood Restaurant in Manila, she noted the cooperative’s huge contribution so that small businesses and micro enterprises will have financial access. The senator said she and her husband, former Senate President Manny Villar, strongly believe SMEs, micro SMEs and cooperatives are key to help Filipinos out of poverty.