By Nimfa Estrellado Municipal Cooperative Development Council with Sariaya First Lady Marivic Gayeta, President-Gilas Kababaihan ng Sariaya,...
SARIAYA, Quezon - In recognition of the vital contributions of cooperatives to the economic development of the local government of Sariaya, members from all cooperatives here recently gathered in Lucena City to celebrate National Cooperative Month.
Spearheaded by Municipal Cooperative Development Council officers led by Benjamin Ilumin, along with the Acting Municipal Administrator, Public Information Office (PIO), and Municipal Cooperative Development Officer (MCDO), the event commenced with a formal program.
Sariaya First Lady Marivic Gayeta, President-Gilas Kababaihan ng Sariaya, Inc., also graced the event as a guest speaker, highlighting the importance of cooperatives in promoting economic growth and social development in the municipality.
In a message from the first lady she underscored the critical role of cooperatives in assisting the community in enhancing people’s livelihoods and quality of life through their various programs, which also serves as a vital resource during emergency situations.
"Ito ay nagbibigay ng halaga at dignidad sa bawat kasapi. Tayo man ay may papel na mahalaga sa lipunan, hindi lang bilang sa negosyo, kundi bilang tagapagtaguyod ng tunay na kaunlaran at pagbabago," she said.
According to her, there is also a need for cooperatives to work together to fulfill their common goals and successfully handle the municipality's difficulties. Cooperatives can pool their resources and expertise to generate sustainable solutions that benefit not only their members but also the larger community when they work together.
This collaborative approach fosters economic growth by promoting entrepreneurship, job creation, and market stability, while also fostering social development through initiatives such as education, healthcare, and environmental conservation.
It was attended by 11 cooperatives in the town of Sariaya, including Alay Kapwa Rural Women Multi Purpose Cooperative, Balubal-Gibanga Waterworks and Multi Purpose Cooperative, Palcon Dairy Multi Purpose Cooperative, Kapatirang Munting Sambayanang Kristyano ng Banahaw Multi Purpose Cooperative, All Sariaya School Employees and Teachers MPC, Manggalang Agrarian Reform Beneficiaries Cooperative (MARBENCO), Sariaya Multi Purpose Cooperative, Pinagbakuran Multi Purpose Cooperative, Kalahi Multi Purpose Cooperative, Jubillee-Aguila Quezon Bayanihan Agriculture Cooperative, at Samahan ng Magniniyog at Maggugukay ng Tumbaga II Cooperative.
A raffle draw for all the cooperatives that participated in the celebration was conducted to add excitement and promote camaraderie among the members. The raffle prizes included cash prizes, groceries, smart TVs, and refrigerators generously sponsored by local businesses and organizations.
Prizes were also awarded to the "group yell" and provided an uplifting number at the end of the event. The cooperative with the most creative and energetic yell received special recognition and an additional cash prize.
The purpose of cooperatives is to serve as an instrument for responding to global challenges by working together and focusing on the community, helping to build a better future for all. They empower individuals and communities to address issues such as poverty, inequality, and environmental sustainability.
National Cooperative Month is celebrated every October in the country to raise awareness about the importance and impact of cooperatives in society. It is time to recognize the achievements of cooperatives and highlight their contributions to economic development, social equity, and environmental stewardship.
No comments