Various types of cooperatives are being registered in different CDA Extension Offices of the country. The transport modernization system being introduced and implemented by the Duterte administration paved the way for some transport groups to register as cooperative while others prefer corporation. However, some associations are still deciding whether to pursue registration or not given their argument on prohibitive costs of the new units to be procured to replace existing road worthy public utility vehicles.
June 30, 2020 is the deadline for the opportunity to avail of the modernization program and some still cling to the idea that the initiative will not prosper given the difficulty in convincing people to heed the call.
Another factor is the reliance of some transport groups on testimonies of some newly registered cooperatives tapped to share their experiences during some organized activities. While everybody can learn from the sharing of those cooperative leaders the need to comply with existing policy shift is a must. Otherwise, delayed decisions and actions can lead to losing the granted privilege.
As cooperatives and associations thrive based on common bond of interest, all members must adhere to the purposes for which it was established. The mindset should be on a collective action and not on personal basis as it can ruin relationships within the organization.
Some transport group leaders approached and inquired from us regarding the formation of cooperatives as they opted to register with CDA. One piece of advice I usually share is that cooperatives are formed to unite people and not to divide. The success of the group depends on the support of the members and everybody must be involved.
Also, some enterprising individuals think they can make use of cooperatives to advance their agenda. I usually recommend to them formation of a corporation if they intend to limit membership since the frame of mind is on profit and control of the organization.
Cooperatives as we know today encourage more membership to pool resources together and come up with viable enterprises that can cater to their needs and generate surplus to support more planned activities for members and the community. We have witnessed the growth of billionaire cooperatives that harnessed increase in membership as a strategy towards increased capital formation. Hence, the perception of some groups to limit membership violates the real essence of cooperative.
It cannot be denied that we all have small and big dreams as individuals. Various approaches can be employed in realizing these dreams. For sure mindsets and extent of influence affect our decisions. Successful organizations like cooperatives thrive because of people that sacrificed. Others fail because of greed and the outlook of serving in exchange for rewards.
As leaders, embracing the responsibility to serve with gladness for the welfare of the greater majority comes as a challenge. It might not be the best option. Consistency of purpose guided by the right attitude can be engines for cooperative leaders to excel. Excellent leadership cannot be done overnight as we need others to influence us. In practicing servant leadership we can possibly influence others.
