October is known for Halloween and Octoberfest. But, it is also the National Statistics Month, Consumer Welfare Month, National Indigenous Peoples Month, National Health and Wellness Tourism Month, among others. To us in the co-op sector, it is the co-op month. Nothing gives more excitement for our cooperators than celebrating co-op month. It’s just that it doesn’t receive much public attention like those things I’ve mentioned that are more popular observances.
In fact, there are other observances for the month such as: Industry and Commerce Safety Month, Museums and Galleries Month, Local Government Month, Special Month for the Conservation and Protection of the Tamaraw in Mindoro, National Anti-Video Piracy Month, National Quality and Productivity Improvement Month.
Speaking of Co-op Month, the theme for this year’s celebration centers on partnership. It states: Co-operatives: Partners for building resilient and empowered communities towards a better and stronger Philippines.
We recognize co-ops as our indispensable partners not only in community but more importantly, in nation building. We are not saying they are the only ones responsible for economic prosperity and development of the country but they are doing their part. They are found in the rural areas where no business tycoon is brave enough to put up his shop. Co-ops empower their members by making them self-reliant, financially literate to become entrepreneurs and offer other variety of services. Through these co-op programs on their members, they build resilient and empowered communities. We believe that co-ops are able to face the challenges of today’s economic, social, and cultural environment. We also believe that co-ops have responded accordingly to these challenges.
You see, co-ops don’t discriminate their clients. Their doors are open both to the rich and to the poor, the educated and the illiterate, and whoever is in need and willingly assume the responsibilities of a member. Co-ops provide easier access to credit as compared to banks. They cater to their members with the intention of improving the quality of their lives. And they also give back to the community. They donate to the barangays, to the schools and even provide scholarships to deserving students. They create economic activity that spur growth in the locality. Just recently, they are among the donors to the victims of typhoon Ompong. And this is the reason why we celebrate.
Let us celebrate the gains, successes and all the positive developments happening in the cooperative sector. They have contributed a lot and let us give the recognition they rightfully deserve.
Our co-op activities are scheduled on the following dates: October 12-13 for Mt. province, October 16-17 for Benguet, October 22-23 for Baguio City. The regional co-op month celebration shall be in Tabuk, Kalinga on October 26-27. Just inquire from our office for your inquiries.
May the cooperative spirit dwell in us all! Happy cooperative month!
