MATI CITY, Davao Oriental- Aiming to uplift the economy and livelihoods by mobilizing cooperatives, the Provincial Government of Davao Oriental celebrated the opening of the “Cooperative Month.”

Showing unity and cooperation, about 500 cooperative members from 31 cooperatives participated during the Cooperative Month celebration’s kick-off ceremony on Monday, October 3, 2022, at the Provincial Capitol.

The province of Davao Oriental has a total of 95 registered cooperatives. With this year’s theme “KooPinas: Nagkakaisang Lakas para sa Makabulohan at Sama-samang Pag-unlad,” the month-long celebration is geared to make cooperatives a solidified force for economic prosperity through the mobilization of strategic and efficient production of goods and services.

Vice Governor Niño Uy, who represented Governor Corazon N. Malanyaon, stressed the significance of cooperatives as they provide livelihood and contribute to economic growth, upholding self-reliance and fostering people empowerment to uplift the lives of the people.

In a virtual message, the Cooperative Development Authority (CDA) Regional Director Ruben Cunanan called on the Davao Oriental Cooperatives to continue working together to improve their cooperatives. This is to help them attain their goals of transforming their community.

Provincial Cooperative Officer Rosafel C. Batingana emphasized the value of cooperation. “For this cooperative month, we wish to promote awareness and productivity. Cooperation is essential in pursuing development as it is better with two so that if either falls down, the other can always lend a hand,” she said.

Also extending his message was the Sangguniang Panlalawigan Chairman of Committee on Cooperatives and Livelihood Board Member Stephen Paul Uy. He was joined by Board Members Harold Montes, Rotchie Ravelo, and Daud Linsag. Also present was the Provincial Administrator Maria Gracia Tiago and the Provincial Government Department Heads.

During the program, raffle prizes were also handed out as a simple sign of appreciation to all who participated. (Mark Oliver Alvite, PIO Davao Oriental)