Capitol mulling coop development office

CEBU, Philippines — The Capitol is tackling a proposal to institutionalize a Provincial Cooperative Development Office (PCDO) for synchronization of cooperative development programs and initiatives within the province.

The author of the proposed ordinance, 4th District board member Nelson J. Mondigo, said during the 17th Sangguniang Panlalawigan regular session that the office will serve as the central coordinating and implementing arm for cooperative development, fully aligned with the mandates of the local government code of the Philippines.

Despite being the leading province in Region 7, with 1,151 duly-registered cooperatives, 517 actively operating, and over six cooperatives each exceeding ?1 billion in assets, Cebu has yet to establish a PCDO to promote and support the said sector.

PCDO’s functions involve formulating cooperative-related policies, plans, and development programs; identifying and assisting feasible groups that can be organized into cooperatives; coordinating with financial institutions and private entities for financing and market access; and creating a database of cooperatives in Cebu Province.

It is also responsible for overseeing the annual Provincial Cooperative Summit and Trade Expo, and submitting reports and policy recommendations to the Sangguniang Panlalawigan and the Office of the Governor.

The office shall also form a Provincial Cooperative Council, designated as an advisory and consultative body. The council shall consist of duly-registered cooperative federations, unions, and primary cooperatives operating in the province. Relevant institutions, such as national government agencies, local offices, and private entities, are also included, subject to the PCDO’s identification.

According to Mondigo, the establishment of this office “affirms the commitment of the Capitol to inclusive growth and participatory governance by empowering cooperatives as partners for provincial development.” — Hannah Gresha O. Abayon, UP Intern/BRP (FREEMAN)