Building a Brighter Tomorrow: VM Bebot Rodriguez Advocates for Cooperative Development

With the theme “Cooperatives: Stronger Together Today for a Brighter Tomorrow,” we proudly celebrate National Cooperative Month this October, as anchored in Republic Act 11502. This month serves as a reminder of the vital role cooperatives play in fostering community spirit and driving economic progress.

In today’s dynamic socio-economic landscape, where individuals often face challenges in achieving financial stability, cooperatives emerge as partners in promoting inclusive growth and social equity. By pooling resources and working together, cooperatives empower their members, promote financial stability, and create a more just and equitable society.

The importance of cooperatives is enshrined in Article 12, Section 15 of the Philippine Constitution, which mandates Congress to create an agency that promotes the viability and growth of cooperatives as instruments for social justice and economic development. This constitutional provision highlights the government’s commitment to enhancing the cooperative movement in the country.

Photo credits: VM Bebot official Facebook page

A staunch advocate for cooperatives in our city, Vice Mayor Bebot Rodriguez is actively working to cultivate an environment conducive to their growth and sustainability. She has proposed an ordinance to establish the Cagayan de Oro Cooperative Development Office (COCDO), which she envisions as a cornerstone for enhancing the cooperative sector. This office will not only provide support to cooperatives but also act as a hub for implementing strategic economic and social programs that will benefit the community at large.

The proposed COCDO will play a multifaceted role, assisting in the organization of new cooperatives and extending vital technical assistance to existing ones in need of enhancement and rehabilitation. It will develop linkages for cooperatives and monitor their compliance with the regulations set forth by the Cooperative Development Authority (CDA). Through these initiatives, Vice Mayor Bebot aims to empower cooperatives and micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) to better meet the needs of their members and the community.

For the lady vice mayor, "cooperativism is a powerful tool for building inclusive and sustainable growth, as it empowers individuals and communities to collectively achieve their goals and improve their quality of life."

As we celebrate National Cooperative Month, let us reaffirm our commitment to supporting cooperatives and recognizing their vital role in shaping a brighter future for all.