Go pushes cooperative development among farmer groups

City Councilor Gilda “Gigi” Go is advocating for the establishment of stronger, self-reliant cooperatives among farmers’ associations to expand their access to financing, markets, government assistance, and livelihood opportunities.

As chairperson of the committee on cooperatives, she emphasized the importance of taking this step to strengthen farmers’ economic independence and enable them to become more active participants in local economic development.

At the Graduation Ceremony of the Farmer Field School on Season-Long Organic Vegetable Production at Sitio Caban-caban in Barangay Tablon, Go said the training's completion by 38 farmers should not be the end, but a start to further opportunities for collective growth through cooperative development.

She envisioned farmers’ associations evolving into sustainable cooperatives that can help members access resources, explore business opportunities, and improve their livelihoods.

Go also acknowledged the contributions of partner agencies and stakeholders in supporting farmer development initiatives, underscoring the importance of collaboration in empowering agricultural communities. (PGU/SP)