http://coopchamberph.org/, https://www.youtube.com/@CoopChamberPH

Coop Chamber PH, No. 20 Stanford Street, Cubao, Quezon City (2026)

16/06/2026

𝗝𝗢𝗜𝗡𝗧 𝗣𝗥𝗘𝗦𝗦 𝗦𝗧𝗔𝗧𝗘𝗠𝗘𝗡𝗧
June 16, 2026

𝙋𝙃𝙄𝙇𝙄𝙋𝙋𝙄𝙉𝙀 𝘾𝙃𝘼𝙈𝘽𝙀𝙍 𝙊𝙁 𝘾𝙊𝙊𝙋𝙀𝙍𝘼𝙏𝙄𝙑𝙀𝙎, 𝙄𝙉𝘾. (𝘾𝙊𝙊𝙋 𝘾𝙃𝘼𝙈𝘽𝙀𝙍) 𝘾𝙇𝙄𝙈𝘽𝙎 𝙇𝙄𝙁𝙀 𝘼𝙉𝘿 𝙂𝙀𝙉𝙀𝙍𝘼𝙇 𝙄𝙉𝙎𝙐𝙍𝘼𝙉𝘾𝙀 𝘾𝙊𝙊𝙋𝙀𝙍𝘼𝙏𝙄𝙑𝙀 (𝘾𝙇𝙄𝙈𝘽𝙎) 𝙉𝘼𝙏𝙄𝙊𝙉𝘼𝙇 𝙁𝙀𝘿𝙀𝙍𝘼𝙏𝙄𝙊𝙉 𝙊𝙁 𝘾𝙊𝙊𝙋𝙀𝙍𝘼𝙏𝙄𝙑𝙀𝙎 𝙄𝙉 𝙏𝙃𝙀 𝙋𝙃𝙄𝙇𝙄𝙋𝙋𝙄𝙉𝙀𝙎 (𝙉𝘼𝙁𝙀𝘾𝙊𝙊𝙋)
𝘾𝙊-𝙊𝙋𝙀𝙍𝘼𝙏𝙄𝙑𝙀 𝘾𝙊𝙇𝙇𝙀𝙂𝙀 𝙊𝙁 𝙏𝙃𝙀 𝙋𝙃𝙄𝙇𝙄𝙋𝙋𝙄𝙉𝙀𝙎 (𝘾𝙊-𝙊𝙋 𝘾𝙊𝙇𝙇𝙀𝙂𝙀 𝙋𝙃)

𝗤𝗨𝗔𝗗𝗣𝗔𝗥𝗧𝗜𝗧𝗘 𝗖𝗢𝗢𝗣𝗘𝗥𝗔𝗧𝗜𝗩𝗘 𝗖𝗢𝗔𝗟𝗜𝗧𝗜𝗢𝗡 𝗠𝗢𝗕𝗜𝗟𝗜𝗭𝗘𝗦 𝗙𝗢𝗥 𝗠𝗜𝗡𝗗𝗔𝗡𝗔𝗢: 𝗔 𝗝𝗢𝗜𝗡𝗧 𝗔𝗗𝗩𝗢𝗖𝗔𝗖𝗬 𝗔𝗡𝗗 𝗦𝗢𝗟𝗜𝗗𝗔𝗥𝗜𝗧𝗬 𝗪𝗢𝗥𝗞 𝗙𝗢𝗥 𝗘𝗔𝗥𝗧𝗛𝗤𝗨𝗔𝗞𝗘 𝗥𝗘𝗖𝗢𝗩𝗘𝗥𝗬

QUEZON CITY, PHILIPPINES – Standing as an unbreakable front in the face of national adversity, four pillar organizations of the Philippine cooperative movement have officially launched a unified Joint Advocacy and Solidarity Work framework. This historic coalition integrates policy, asset protection, grassroots logistics, and psychosocial education to deliver immediate relief and long-term structural recovery to the victims of the catastrophic magnitude 7.8 earthquake in Mindanao.

The disaster has left more than 550,000 individuals displaced or severely affected across the Zamboanga Peninsula, SOCCSKSARGEN, the Davao Region, and BARMM. With critical mountain passes blocked by ongoing landslides and over 3,000 aftershocks continuously rattling vulnerable communities, the coalition recognizes that isolated municipalities like Glan, Alabel, Jose Abad Santos, and urban centers like General Santos City require an organized, seamless, and dignified humanitarian response.

A Unified Ecosystem of Protection and Care

By combining the distinct strengths of the advocacy chamber, a premier insurance cooperative, a major federation of primaries, and a specialized educational institution, the quadpartite coalition bridges the gaps often found in traditional disaster relief.

The joint response structure deploys four critical lines of defense:

• Policy & Capital Mobilization (Coop Chamber): Providing the legal framework and advocacy to guide primary cooperatives nationwide in immediately utilizing their mandatory Community Development Funds (CDF) for localized disaster interventions.

• Climate Resilience & Asset Protection
(CLIMBS): Fast-tracking life and property insurance claims, installing a 60-day premium payment grace period in calamity zones, and deploying automated financial safety nets to protect affected coop members and infrastructure.

• Grassroots Supply Logistics (NAFECOOP): Activating its extensive field network of primary cooperatives to transform structurally sound cooperative offices into localized emergency supply hubs for the distribution of drinking water, heavy-duty tarpaulins, and dignity kits.

• Psychosocial & Technical Training (Co-op College PH): Standardizing field assessment toolkits and deploying trained volunteer teams to evacuation centers to provide essential psychosocial first aid and community disaster risk management.

Voices of Leadership and Solidary Action

The coalition leadership emphasizes that the true essence of cooperative principles, specifically Cooperation among Cooperatives and Concern for Community, is defined by swift, coordinated ex*****on rather than isolated efforts.

"The structural cracks in our infrastructure will be mended by the unbreakable bonds of our social solidarity," stated Mr. Noel D. Raboy, Chairperson of the Coop Chamber. "Cooperatives are community-anchored institutions. By binding our policy with the protection of CLIMBS, the logistics of NAFECOOP, and the human capital of Co-op College PH, we ensure that our response is both immediate and enduring."

Mr. Edwin A. Bustillos, Secretary General of the Coop Chamber, highlighted the diplomatic and strategic collaboration with state actors:
"We are working hand-in-hand with local government units (LGUs) and the NDRRMC to navigate this state of calamity. Our goal is to bypass logistical bottlenecks. Through this quadpartite alliance, we are engaging primary cooperatives as qualified members, alongside our vital federation, union, and institutional partners, to build a seamless roadmap from emergency relief to total economic rehabilitation."

A Nationwide Call to Action

The coalition urgently appeals to all primary cooperatives, federations, unions, and individual cooperators across the archipelago to support this joint endeavor. Member cooperatives can participate by passing emergency board resolutions to allocate funds, coordinating in-kind donations with NAFECOOP hubs, or utilizing CLIMBS emergency desks for swift claims processing.

Contributions and logistics coordination are centrally managed through the audited Joint Cooperative Solidarity Fund to ensure absolute transparency, accountability, and reporting to the regulatory authorities. Through the shared spirit of bayanihan, the cooperative movement stands fully prepared to guide Mindanao from profound crisis back to safety, stability, and resilience.

15/06/2026

On May 19, 2026, cooperative leaders from across the Zamboanga Peninsula gathered at the Chandler Suites, Pagadian City for the 3rd General Assembly of the Coop Chamber Region 9.

Led by Regional Governor Pacienciano Tomarong, alongside Coop Chamber Chairperson Noel D. Raboy and Secretary-General Edwin Bustillos, the assembly was a powerful testament to our core cooperative identity: unity, transparency, and collective action.

Key Highlights from the Assembly:
• Advocating for Our Members: We are proud to announce major legislative milestones, including our successful lobby for the 5-year validity of the CDA Certificate of Compliance (COC), drastically cutting bureaucratic red tape for all primary cooperatives!
• Harmonizing with the BIR: Through diplomatic and constructive dialogues with the Bureau of Internal Revenue, we are establishing Regional Technical Working Groups (RTWGs) to ensure fair, consistent tax policies, while securing a vital 9-month grace period for member TIN compliance.
• The Senatorial Project & The "Co-op Vote": With 13.6 million cooperative members nationwide, it is time to transition from silent observers to active participants in national governance. The assembly strongly endorsed the strategic vision of elevating an organic cooperative champion to the Senate to fiercely defend our economic initiatives and sectoral autonomy.

The region is setting the benchmark for the entire nation. We are not just a sector; we are an economic engine driving grassroots empowerment. Together, we are forging a definitive, unified legislative voice.

Let us move forward together!

15/06/2026

Marikina City-A productive meeting was held with Councilor Marife Dayao, Chairperson of the Committee on Cooperatives of Marikina City, together with the NCR Council led by Gov. Roger Manlangit and key cooperative leaders, to discuss initiatives aimed at strengthening the cooperative sector in the city today, June 15, 2026.

The following are the key matters siscussed:
✅ The Coop Chamber, including its organizational structure and agenda
✅ Potential partnership initiatives to further enhance the Local Cooperative Development Plan
✅ Permanent appointment of the Cooperative Development Officer (CDO)

During the meeting, Councilor Dayao expressed her willingness to study the proposals concerning the enhancement of the Local Cooperative Development Plan and the permanent appointment of the CDO. She noted that feedback will be provided after consultation with and approval from the Committee on Cooperatives and the City Council.

The discussion highlighted the importance of collaboration between local government and the cooperative sector in advancing programs that support cooperative growth, empowerment, and sustainable community development. Participants expressed optimism for future partnerships that will further strengthen the cooperative movement in Marikina City.

Also present in the meeting are Council of Leaders Ms. Carolina Mendoza of NOVADECI Transport Cooperative, Mr. Jose Aguilar of IMCO Multipurpose Cooperative, Mr. Allan Caddarao of BBM Credit Cooperative together with Secretary General Edwin Bustillos and NCR Coordinator Ms. Yolanda Pinzon.

11/06/2026

𝙅𝙤𝙞𝙣𝙩 𝘾𝙖𝙡𝙡 𝙛𝙤𝙧 𝙎𝙤𝙡𝙞𝙙𝙖𝙧𝙞𝙩𝙮

Fellow cooperators,

In light of the recent earthquakes that have struck General Santos and nearby areas, CLIMBS , NAFECOOP , Coop College, and Coop Chamber are undertaking the urgent task of gathering information on affected individuals, both members of our member-cooperatives and those from non-member coops.

We appeal to your solidarity and compassion: kindly share with us the details of those impacted, so that we may coordinate and extend timely relief assistance.

This initiative is being organized with our cooperative networks in other regions, as part of our shared commitment to stand together in times of crisis.

Let us transform our collective strength into meaningful support for our brothers and sisters who need us most.

We are also seeking donations to show our concern for our community in support of our fellow cooperators who fell victims of this calamity.

Kindly send your donation through this bank account:
- Bank: BDO - Lapasan Branch
- Account Name: Philippine Chamber of Cooperatives, Inc.
- Account Number: 0031-6801-9196

Please send us a copy of your deposit slip through email or message us here in Facebook with the photo or screenshot of the bank transfer, so we can issue an invoice for your donation.

For more inquiries you may contact us at our email address at [email protected] or through our phone number at 0917 103 2603

Your support that will be extended to provide relief assistance will be highly appreciated.

08/06/2026

LEGAZPI CITY- On June 04, 2026, the Third Regional Cooperatives Chamber Assembly of Bicol Region was held at Hotel St. Ellis, Legazpi City.

The program formally opened with preliminary activities, including the invocation, singing of the Philippine National Anthem, and recitation of the Cooperative Pledge. This was followed by the acknowledgment of cooperative delegates and distinguished guests.

The opening remarks were delivered by Regional Governor Beda P. Lubiano. In his message, Governor Lubiano emphasized that the assembly is conducted annually and serves as a venue for providing updates on programs and activities implemented by the chamber. He also highlighted the importance of sustaining and strengthening the chamber's efforts in advancing cooperative advocacy.

A special message was also delivered by Ms. Marlene Sindayen, Vice-Chairperson of the Philippine Chamber of Cooperatives, Inc. She emphasized the chamber's ongoing engagements and collaborations with the Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR) regarding cooperative tax issues and the formation of a Technical Working Group (TWG). She noted that while differing interpretations of the Tax Identification Number (TIN) requirements under Republic Act No. 9520 remain, cooperatives must continue to comply with applicable regulations. At the same time, the chamber remains firm in addressing concerns related to the issuance of Letters of Authority (LOA) and other tax-related matters affecting cooperatives.

Ms. Sindayen further stated that discussions with the BIR would continue to identify policy gaps and concerns. As the national voice of cooperatives, the chamber is committed to bringing these issues to the government and promoting collaborative solutions. Despite the challenges currently faced by the sector, she stressed the need to strengthen regional cooperation and continue pursuing the chamber's advocacies and development agenda.

A solidarity message was also delivered by Mr. Rommel Dajes, Area Sales Manager (ASM) for South Luzon of CLIMBS Life and General Insurance Cooperative. He emphasized the importance of unity and cooperation among cooperatives, highlighting the need for a collective voice in addressing common concerns. He noted that the assembly serves as an appropriate platform for raising issues, particularly those related to taxation and regulatory compliance.

The program then proceeded to its main component—the Tax Education and Forum. Mr. Edwin Bustillos, Secretary-General of the Cooperative Chamber, introduced the resource speakers from the BIR. Prior to the presentations, he provided background information on the purpose and significance of the forum. He explained that taxation is one of the government's inherent powers used to generate revenue for public programs and services.

Mr. Bustillos reiterated that cooperatives continue to encounter various challenges concerning BIR regulations, including issues related to Letters of Authority. Consequently, discussions on tax requirements are necessary to identify existing gaps and improve understanding between regulatory agencies and the cooperative sector. He also mentioned that several tax-related issuances require further clarification and discussion. The forum, therefore, provides an opportunity for cooperatives to voice their concerns and seek guidance on compliance matters.

For the information of the assembly, Mr. Bustillos shared that the Cooperative Chamber has filed a petition for certiorari before the Supreme Court concerning certain tax-related issues. While awaiting the Court's decision, he emphasized the importance of ensuring compliance with existing regulations.

The afternoon session focused on governance-related matters, particularly the Cooperative Vote, Senatorial Projects, and Campaign Plans. The session was presented by Mr. Edwin Bustillos, Secretary-General of the Philippine Chamber of Cooperatives. In his presentation, he emphasized that political representation is not merely a right but a necessity for the cooperative sector. He challenged the participants to reflect on whether the sector should actively represent itself or continue relying on others to speak on its behalf. While the cooperative movement has allies and champions in the Senate, most of them do not come directly from the cooperative sector. Consequently, many cooperative issues and advocacies receive attention only when they coincide with broader political interests. Mr. Bustillos underscored the importance of building stronger political participation and representation to ensure that the sector's concerns are consistently heard and addressed.

To conclude the program, Ms. Lucy Baylon, one of the Council of Leader, delivered the closing message. She reflected on the comprehensive discussions held throughout the day, from the morning sessions to the afternoon presentations, highlighting the key issues, concerns, and insights raised by the delegates, particularly in response to the presentations from the Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR). In her remarks, she challenged everyone to remain steadfast in strengthening the region and advancing the cooperative movement's advocacies. She emphasized the need for continued collaboration, commitment, and collective action in addressing the challenges faced by cooperatives. The assembly concluded with a shared commitment among the participants to further strengthen cooperative unity, enhance governance practices, and promote active participation in both economic and political spheres.

02/06/2026

From the entire Coop Chamber family, we extend our warmest birthday greetings to Western Visayas Regional Governor Mary Jane Ganarias of Guimaras Brethren Multipurpose Cooperative.

On your special day, we celebrate and thank you for your dedicated leadership, steadfast commitment, and valuable contributions to advancing the cooperative movement. May God continue to bless you and your family with good health, happiness, and abundant blessings.

01/06/2026

𝗪𝗘𝗦𝗧𝗘𝗥𝗡 𝗩𝗜𝗦𝗔𝗬𝗔𝗦 𝟯𝗥𝗗 𝗥𝗘𝗚𝗜𝗢𝗡𝗔𝗟 𝗖𝗢𝗢𝗣𝗘𝗥𝗔𝗧𝗜𝗩𝗘𝗦 𝗖𝗛𝗔𝗠𝗕𝗘𝗥 𝗔𝗦𝗦𝗘𝗠𝗕𝗟𝗬

ILOILO CITY — The 3rd Western Visayas Regional Cooperatives Chamber Assembly successfully gathered 29 cooperatives and 44 cooperative leaders on May 26, 2026, at Smallville 21 Hotel, Iloilo City. The assembly brought together cooperative stakeholders from across the region under the theme, "Economic Strength to Political Voice: Organizing the Cooperative Vote for National Governance.”

In her welcome remarks, Regional Governor Mary Jane Ganarias warmly received the delegates representing the six provinces of Western Visayas, including Negros Occidental. She emphasized the importance of strengthening regional solidarity and advancing the cooperative sector’s collective agenda.

The assembly was further enriched by the participation of representatives from the Offices of the Provincial Cooperative Development Officers of Antique and Iloilo. Ms. Mary Gwydolyn G. Tubianosa and Atty. Arturo Cangrejo as well as the National Anti-Poverty Commission - Cooperatives Sectoral Council represented by Council Member Joemar Bayog conveyed their messages of support, reaffirming their commitment to the continued growth and development of the cooperative movement in the region.

A key highlight of the morning session was the 𝗧𝗮𝘅 𝗘𝗱𝘂𝗰𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻 𝗙𝗼𝗿𝘂𝗺 facilitated by representatives from the Legal Division of the Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR). The forum provided updates and clarifications on taxation policies affecting cooperatives and served as an avenue for participants to directly raise concerns, seek guidance, and discuss issues encountered by their respective organizations.

During the afternoon session, Coop Chamber Chairperson Noel Raboy, who joined virtually via Zoom, outlined the Chamber’s strategic direction in preparation for the 𝗖𝗼𝗼𝗽 𝗩𝗼𝘁𝗲 𝟮𝟬𝟮𝟴 initiative. The initiative seeks to unite and mobilize the cooperative sector toward greater political participation and stronger representation in national governance and future elections.

The initiative was met with strong support from the assembly, with participants expressing their commitment to advancing the cooperative movement’s collective voice. Further discussions on implementation strategies and regional preparations will be undertaken by the Council of Leaders in the coming weeks.

As part of the assembly proceedings, Visayas Regional Affairs and Advocacy Officer Stephanie Espinosa presented the minutes of the 2nd Western Visayas Regional Cooperatives Chamber Assembly, while Secretary General Edwin Bustillos delivered the Chamber’s National Operational Report. Regional accomplishments and updates were likewise presented by Regional Governor Ganarias. The assembly also deliberated on the Chamber’s proposed plans and strategic directions for CY 2026–2027, presented by RAAO Espinosa.

To formally close the assembly, Council Leader Panjun Margarico delivered the closing remarks, expressing appreciation of the Council of Leaders to all participating cooperatives and reaffirming the Chamber’s commitment to fostering a more unified and empowered cooperative movement.

The Western Visayas Regional Assembly forms part of the Chamber’s nationwide series of 16 regional assemblies being conducted across the country. It also marked the final leg of the three regional assemblies held in the Visayas, serving as a vital platform for strengthening cooperative unity, addressing sectoral concerns, and advancing the role of cooperatives in shaping national governance.

Cooperatives interested in joining the Western Visayas Cooperatives Chamber may send their inquiries to [email protected].

29/05/2026

𝗡𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻𝗮𝗹 𝗙𝗲𝗱𝗲𝗿𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻 𝗼𝗳 𝗧𝗿𝗮𝗻𝘀𝗽𝗼𝗿𝘁 𝗖𝗼𝗼𝗽𝗲𝗿𝗮𝘁𝗶𝘃𝗲𝘀 - 𝗕𝗞𝗞𝗣𝗣𝗜 𝟭𝟱𝘁𝗵 𝗔𝗻𝗻𝘂𝗮𝗹 𝗚𝗲𝗻𝗲𝗿𝗮𝗹 𝗔𝘀𝘀𝗲𝗺𝗯𝗹𝘆

QUEZON CITY — The National Federation of Transport Cooperatives (NFTC-BKKPPI) proudly celebrated its 15th Annual General Assembly on May 28, 2026, at Ardenhills Suites, Quezon City, carrying the theme: “Driving Forward with Integrity, Paving the Way for a Purpose-Driven Transport.”

In his message, NFTC Chairperson Misael Melinas emphasized that despite the continuing challenges facing the transport sector, including the ongoing crisis in the Middle East, which triggered rising petroleum costs and affected transport operations, transport cooperatives must continue moving forward. He emphasized the importance of advocating for a safer, more comfortable, and more accessible public transportation system through the Public Transport Modernization Program (PTMP), which was initiated a decade ago.

Guest speakers included CDA Chairperson Alex Raquepo, LTFRB Chairperson Atty. Vigor Mendoza II, former DOTR Undersecretary Andy Ortega, and Coop Chamber Secretary General Edwin Bustillos. In their respective messages, they stressed that the PTMP must continue to advance in order to fulfill its mandate of providing safe and comfortable transportation for the commuting public while improving public utility services in partnership with cooperatives, creating a positive impact on the economy.

Legislators from the House of Representatives also conveyed their support for legislative measures benefiting the transport sector. Among them was Coop NATCCO Party List Representative Felimon Espares, represented during the event by Chief-of-Staff Randy Londres.

The keynote address was delivered by Senator Risa Hontiveros, a longtime advocate of the program. In her speech, she highlighted the importance of ensuring a just transition within the transport sector and shared the initiatives undertaken by her office in championing the PTMP during committee discussions and budget deliberations with the Department of Transportation.

Senator Hontiveros also announced plans to further consult with stakeholders and file her own version of the Institutionalization of the Public Transport Modernization Program during the 20th Congress, irrespective of the ongoing developments in the Senate.

She encouraged the leaders of NFTC and other stakeholders to unite in support of the program and continue advocating with integrity and purpose for the benefit of the transport sector, the commuting public, and the nation.

29/05/2026

𝗘𝗔𝗦𝗧𝗘𝗥𝗡 𝗩𝗜𝗦𝗔𝗬𝗔𝗦 𝟯𝗥𝗗 𝗥𝗘𝗚𝗜𝗢𝗡𝗔𝗟 𝗖𝗢𝗢𝗣𝗘𝗥𝗔𝗧𝗜𝗩𝗘𝗦 𝗖𝗛𝗔𝗠𝗕𝗘𝗥 𝗔𝗦𝗦𝗘𝗠𝗕𝗟𝗬

TACLOBAN CITY — The 3rd Eastern Visayas Regional Cooperatives Chamber Assembly successfully convened 22 cooperatives and 41 cooperative leaders on May 23, 2026, at the Radiant Hotel and Events, Tacloban City, gathering cooperative stakeholders across the region under the theme, “Economic Strength to Political Voice: Organizing the Cooperative Vote for National Governance.”

The assembly formally opened with opening remarks delivered by Council Leader Wilma Yap on behalf of Regional Governor Jacinto Tilbe. In her message, Yap emphasized the importance of strengthening solidarity among cooperatives and sustaining the sector’s collective engagement in governance and nation-building.

Messages of solidarity were likewise delivered by Coop Chamber Vice Chairperson Marlene Sindayen and Trustee Sarah Agner, who both emphasized the growing role of cooperatives in shaping inclusive economic development and amplifying the sector’s voice in national policymaking.

One of the key highlights of the morning session was the 𝗧𝗮𝘅 𝗘𝗱𝘂𝗰𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻 𝗙𝗼𝗿𝘂𝗺 facilitated by representatives from the Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR) Legal Division and Revenue District Office (RDO) Tacloban City. The forum provided updates and clarifications on taxation concerns affecting cooperatives, allowing participants to directly raise questions and issues encountered by their respective organizations.

This was followed by the presentation of the 𝗖𝗼𝗼𝗽 𝗩𝗼𝘁𝗲 𝟮𝟬𝟮𝟴 initiative, which aims to consolidate and mobilize the cooperative sector toward greater political participation and representation in the upcoming national elections. The initiative was positively received by the assembly, with participants expressing strong support for strengthening the cooperative movement’s collective voice in national governance. The Council of Leaders will further discuss the details of the implementations in the following weeks.

During the afternoon session, Council Leader Maria Teresa Geniston presented the minutes of the 2nd Eastern Visayas Regional Cooperatives Chamber Assembly, followed by the National Operational Reports delivered by Secretary General Edwin Bustillos. Regional updates and accomplishments were likewise presented by Council Leader Geniston.

Subsequently, the proposed plans and directions for CY 2026–2027 were presented by Regional Affairs and Advocacy Officer Stephanie Espinosa for the consideration, feedback, and recommendations of the assembly. Discussions focused on strengthening regional coordination, expanding cooperative membership engagement, and advancing advocacy initiatives for the sector.

To formally conclude the assembly, Council Leader Zacarias Mate delivered the closing remarks, encouraging cooperative leaders to continue building stronger partnerships and collective action toward advancing the welfare and representation of cooperatives nationwide.

The Eastern Visayas Regional Assembly forms part of the nationwide series of 16 regional assemblies being conducted across the country. It is the second among the three regional assemblies held in the Visayas, serving as an important platform for reinforcing cooperative unity, addressing sectoral concerns, and strengthening the role of cooperatives in national governance.

For cooperatives interested in joining the Eastern Visayas Cooperatives Chamber, inquiries may be sent to [email protected].

28/05/2026

𝗖𝗘𝗡𝗧𝗥𝗔𝗟 𝗩𝗜𝗦𝗔𝗬𝗔𝗦 𝟯𝗥𝗗 𝗥𝗘𝗚𝗜𝗢𝗡𝗔𝗟 𝗖𝗢𝗢𝗣𝗘𝗥𝗔𝗧𝗜𝗩𝗘𝗦 𝗖𝗛𝗔𝗠𝗕𝗘𝗥 𝗔𝗦𝗦𝗘𝗠𝗕𝗟𝗬

CEBU CITY — The 3rd Central Visayas Regional Cooperatives Chamber Assembly successfully convened on May 21, 2026, at Harolds Hotel, Cebu City, bringing together 80 delegates representing 40 cooperatives from across the region — including the province of Negros Oriental. The gathering centered on the theme: “Economic Strength to Political Voice: Organizing the Cooperative Vote for National Governance.”

Guided by Central Visayas Coop Chamber Regional Governor Engr. Rudolph “Tad” C. Montayre and the Council of Leaders, the assembly stood as a vital gathering for cooperative leaders and partners. It aimed to strengthen regional solidarity, address pressing sectoral concerns, unlock new business opportunities, and advance the pivotal role of cooperatives in shaping national development and governance.

One of the major highlights of the assembly was the 𝗧𝗮𝘅 𝗘𝗱𝘂𝗰𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻 𝗙𝗼𝗿𝘂𝗺, conducted in partnership with the Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR), where cooperative representatives engaged in substantial discussions on key taxation concerns affecting the sector. Discussions focused on the issuance, renewal, and penalties concerning the Certificate of Tax Exemption (CTE), updates regarding cooperatives identified as Top Withholding Agents (TWA), and compliance with Taxpayer Identification Number (TIN) requirements. This also served as a venue for cooperatives to raise their concerns to the bureau on several emerging tax-related concerns confronting primary cooperatives.

The assembly also featured the presentation and consultation on the 𝗖𝗼𝗼𝗽 𝗩𝗼𝘁𝗲 𝟮𝟬𝟮𝟴 initiative, reinforcing the importance of organized cooperative participation in the country’s political landscape and emphasizing the sector’s collective potential to influence policies that directly impact Filipino cooperatives and communities. The participants expressed their strong support for the Coop Vote 2028, and the Council of Leaders will discuss the details of its implementation in the following weeks.

National and regional accomplishment reports were likewise presented to provide updates on ongoing initiatives, advocacies, and organizational developments across the cooperative movement. Delegates were also oriented on the proposed 2026–2027 Regional Plan, outlining priority programs, strategic directions, and collaborative actions for the coming year.

The event served as an extended edition of the Kapihan sa Chamber, offering participants meaningful insights and engaging content to look forward to. During the assembly, Regional Governor Tad Montayre delivered a presentation highlighting current opportunities amid prevailing socioeconomic conditions and the impacts of global developments, including the ongoing conflict in the Middle East.

Further enriching the program, selected partner organizations and institutions were given the opportunity to present various business and development initiatives, offering valuable insights and potential ventures that cooperative leaders may explore and adopt within their respective organizations.

Present during the Assembly were Coop Chamber Chairperson Noel Raboy, Board of Trustees Romulo Amarado and Mildredo Umbac, Coop College CEO and Principal Donna Dizon.

The Central Visayas assembly forms part of the nationwide series of 16 regional assemblies being conducted across the country and stands as one of the three major assemblies held within the Visayas. These gatherings continue to serve as critical platforms for strengthening cooperative unity, amplifying sectoral representation, and advancing the collective voice of cooperatives toward meaningful national participation and inclusive development.

For cooperatives interested in joining the Central Visayas Cooperatives Chamber, inquiries may be sent to [email protected].

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