BAGUIO CITY – Baguio City Cooperative Development Council (BCCDC) and Cordillera Development Authority (CDA) organized the celebration of National Cooperative Month which highlighted initiatives on climate change and food security on October 1 at Malcolm Square.
Under the theme “Cooperatives: Pioneering the Path to Recovery Amidst Modern Challenges of Climate Change and Food Security,” the celebration promotes the importance of cooperatives in addressing the challenges and nurturing resilience within the communities.
On behalf of Baguio City Mayor Benjamin Magalong, Benjamin Macadangdang of the Special Services Division gave his inspirational message, mentioning the importance of the spirit of unity and collaboration as part of the movement.
“Cooperative empowered individuals to pull their resources together, share their expertise, and create a better future for themselves and the community. We’re stronger when we work together,” Macadangdang stated.
He then reminded people of potential challenges during the movement and emphasized on staying focused on the goal of sustaining solidarity. Macadangdang also encouraged everyone to take steps for improvement. “Let us inspire each other to dream big, to innovate, and explore new horizons. Let us celebrate the diversity of cooperatives, each one making a unique contribution and building a more equitable and sustainable future,” he added.
Mr. Victory Luacan, the Chair of the CAR Cooperative Development Council, declared the formal opening of the Cooperative Month Celebration. His proclamation marked the commencement of a month-long series of activities dedicated to recognizing and promoting cooperative movement.
Moreover, Atty. Franco Bawang mentioned in an interview that there are around 200 cooperatives in Baguio City. He emphasized how the community continues to grow and progress. He also alluded to the significance of celebrating the accomplishments of the cooperatives in helping their members and the community.
The month-long celebration consisted of activities such as zumba, clean-up drive, Coop Month and of Baguio. The Culminating Period will take place on Bontoc from October 26 to 28.
To conclude the kick-off of the celebration, an outreach program was conducted at Session Road along with the Market Encounter, where the cooperative members gave out free rice as a subsidy to the marginalized sectors of the community. By Adrian Mas and Hershey Vallo
