https://cemcdo.gensantos.gov.ph/cooperative-division/

Cemcdo Cooperative Division, Cityhall Compound, General Santos City (2025)

09/09/2025

𝐈𝐧𝐝𝐮𝐬𝐭𝐫𝐲 𝐂𝐨𝐧𝐧𝐞𝐜𝐭: 𝐁𝐮𝐬𝐢𝐧𝐞𝐬𝐬 𝐌𝐚𝐭𝐜𝐡𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐀𝐜𝐭𝐢𝐯𝐢𝐭𝐲
𝑆𝑒𝑝𝑡𝑒𝑚𝑏𝑒𝑟 9, 2025 | 𝐶𝑖𝑡𝑦 𝐴𝑔𝑟𝑖𝑐𝑢𝑙𝑡𝑢𝑟𝑒 𝐹𝑎𝑟𝑚𝑒𝑟’𝑠 𝑇𝑟𝑎𝑖𝑛𝑖𝑛𝑔 𝐶𝑒𝑛𝑡𝑒𝑟

The Local Government Unit of General Santos City, through CEMCDO, headed by Dr. Leonard V. Flores, EnP, CESE, in partnership with the City Agriculture Office, headed by Ms. Elsie S. Villanueva, and CENRO, headed by EnP Allan D. Marcilla, held a joint meeting with associations from Brgys. San Jose, Conel, Olympog, and Mabuhay together with industry partners Greentropics (Mr. Fred Fredeluces) and Tupi Supreme Activated Carbon (Ms. Kathereen Ann & Ms. Kareen Jean).

This activity was an 𝐨𝐟𝐟𝐬𝐡𝐨𝐨𝐭 𝐨𝐟 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐫𝐞𝐜𝐞𝐧𝐭𝐥𝐲 𝐜𝐨𝐧𝐜𝐥𝐮𝐝𝐞𝐝 𝐈𝐧𝐝𝐮𝐬𝐭𝐫𝐲 𝐂𝐨𝐧𝐧𝐞𝐜𝐭 𝐄𝐱𝐩𝐨 (July 30, 2025) and served as a platform to connect associations with industries—particularly linking them to Greentropics and Tupi Supreme Activated Carbon as potential suppliers of raw products, such as coffee beans and coconuts, to discuss challenges and explore opportunities. Notably, Mr. Fredeluces emphasized the growing potential of General Santos City as a hub for coffee production.

Through initiatives like this, the LGU reaffirms its commitment to supporting cooperatives and associations—providing access to financing, enhancing farm-to-market connectivity, and ensuring sustainable crop development.

05/09/2025

𝐆𝐞𝐧𝐒𝐚𝐧 𝐋𝐆𝐔 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐑𝐞𝐠𝐢𝐨𝐧 𝟏𝟐 𝐂𝐨𝐨𝐩𝐞𝐫𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐯𝐞 𝐒𝐞𝐜𝐭𝐨𝐫 𝐥𝐞𝐚𝐝 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐂𝐨𝐦𝐦𝐢𝐭𝐦𝐞𝐧𝐭 𝐭𝐨 𝐏𝐚𝐫𝐭𝐧𝐞𝐫𝐬𝐡𝐢𝐩 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐂𝐨𝐨𝐩𝐞𝐫𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐯𝐞 𝐀𝐝𝐯𝐚𝐧𝐜𝐞𝐦𝐞𝐧𝐭

HAPPENING NOW IN CEBU CITY | The local government unit of General Santos City, together with the cooperative sector of Region 12 (Surallah, General Santos, Koronadal, Tampakan, Glan, Tacurong, and Isulan), is actively participating in the 12th National Conference for Cooperative Development held in Cebu City from September 3–5, 2025.

The three-day conference has drawn around 3,000 delegates from across the country, making it a significant gathering for the cooperative movement.

A highlight of the event was the reading of the Pledge of Commitment on the Core Partnership and Collaboration of Stakeholders for the Advancement of Cooperatives, led by Mr. Jose Kevin Z. Sienes, President of the League of the Cooperative Officers of the Philippines (LCDOP) of Region 12 and National Secretary General of the National LCDOP.

The pledge underscores the importance of collaboration and unity in advancing the cooperative sector, with a focus on strengthening partnerships between government and the private sector to ensure more effective implementation of programs and initiatives.

General Santos City Councilor Dominador S. Lagare III also joined the gathering, underscoring the LGU’s full support for the cooperative movement.

Through this historic event, Region 12 delegates were able to exchange best practices, engage in meaningful discussions, and formulate strategies to further empower their cooperatives and communities.

26/08/2025

𝐔𝐧𝐢𝐭𝐞𝐝 𝐂𝐨𝐨𝐩𝐞𝐫𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐯𝐞𝐬 𝐜𝐡𝐚𝐦𝐩𝐢𝐨𝐧 𝐛𝐚𝐲𝐚𝐧𝐢𝐡𝐚𝐧 𝐭𝐡𝐫𝐨𝐮𝐠𝐡 𝐊𝐨𝐨𝐩 𝐊𝐚𝐚𝐤𝐛𝐚𝐲 𝐎𝐮𝐭𝐫𝐞𝐚𝐜𝐡

The Koop Kaakbay Outreach Program (Kooperatiba Kaisa sa mga Adhikain, Alay Ayuda, Kaalaman at Bayanihan) once again showcased the power of solidarity and service as it successfully rolled out its second annual event last August 23, 2025, reaching residents across six Puroks of Barangay San Jose: Blagan, Tabunaway, Munkik, Sila, Saranya, and Guni.

At least 200 cooperative members from 45 primary cooperatives actively took part in the initiative, extending both time and resources to uplift communities in need. Backed by the City Cooperative Development Council, Cooperative members, and the General Santos Cooperative Federation, the program pooled together a total of ₱200,000 in cash donations, which was used to procure essential supplies such as groceries and toilet bowls for identified beneficiaries.

Beyond financial aid, the outreach also provided a wide array of services and in-kind assistance, including:
*100 pairs of slippers for distribution
*free haircut (Libreng Gupit) services
*legal consultations for community concerns
*300 dental kits with a toothbrushing drill for children
*donations of infant and children’s clothing
*nutritious meals of arrozcaldo, pansit, and bread
*multivitamins to promote health and wellness

To ensure smooth operations, e-jeeps were mobilized to transport cooperative members, underscoring the program’s commitment to efficient and well-coordinated service delivery.

The event drew strong support from both local officials and cooperative leaders. Among those present were Mr. Lou Bernandino, representing the City Mayor Loreli G. Pacquiao; Mr. Jose Kevin Z. Sienes, representing Dr. Leonard V. Flores of the City Economic Management and Cooperative Development Office alongside the Cooperative Division team; Hon. Dominador S. Lagare III, City Councilor and Chair of the Cooperative Committee; and Mr. Leonilo S. Escalada, Chairperson of the City Cooperative Development Council, with his board members.

Their collective presence emphasized the shared responsibility of institutions and community leaders in advancing the spirit of bayanihan.

The Koop Kaakbay Outreach Program continues to stand as a shining example of how cooperatives, when united, can go beyond business to deliver compassion, support, and genuine change in the lives of ordinary people.

20/08/2025

𝐂𝐨𝐨𝐩 𝐂𝐚𝐫𝐚𝐯𝐚𝐧 𝐑𝐨𝐥𝐥𝐬 𝐢𝐧𝐭𝐨 𝐁𝐫𝐠𝐲. 𝐒𝐚𝐧 𝐉𝐨𝐬𝐞: 𝐄𝐦𝐩𝐨𝐰𝐞𝐫𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐂𝐨𝐦𝐦𝐮𝐧𝐢𝐭𝐢𝐞𝐬 t𝐡𝐫𝐨𝐮𝐠𝐡 𝐂𝐨𝐨𝐩𝐞𝐫𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐯𝐞𝐬

On August 19, 2025, the City Economic Management and Cooperative Development Office (CEMCDO) spearheaded the Coop Caravan at Barangay San Jose, a barangay-based information dissemination initiative aimed at promoting cooperative awareness and development.

The activity served as a platform to introduce cooperative programs, policies, and opportunities to grassroots associations and individuals aspiring to organize as cooperatives. It likewise encouraged established cooperatives to remain active, innovative, and sustainable in order to strengthen their role in community development and economic empowerment.

The event was attended by 13 associations and 2 cooperatives, highlighting the growing interest of local organizations in pursuing cooperative endeavors. Participants were engaged in discussions on the benefits of cooperativism, government support programs, and the responsibilities that come with managing a cooperative enterprise.

Adding prestige to the caravan, representatives from the Cooperative Development Authority (CDA) and BEST Fund Program Management graced the event, providing valuable insights and reinforcing the government’s commitment to strengthening the cooperative movement at the local level.

Through initiatives like the Coop Caravan, CEMCDO continues to bridge information gaps, inspire community participation, and empower local associations to take meaningful steps toward cooperative formation and growth.

01/08/2025

HAPPENING NOW | As part of General Santos City’s main economic development program, Leveraging Growth Potential (LGP), the Industry Connect Expo is taking place today at Yolachs Venue and Catering, with the theme “Gearing Towards Business Inclusivity.”

The event is organized by the Local Government Unit of General Santos City, led by City Mayor Lorelie Geronimo Pacquiao, through the City Economic Management and Cooperative Development Office (CEMCDO), headed by Dr. Leonard V. Flores.

The expo brings together 186 registered primary cooperatives and key businesses from industries such as ICT-BPO, healthcare, tourism, logistics, and manufacturing. It aims to build strong partnerships that will help cooperatives become more involved in different parts of the local economy.

By connecting cooperatives directly with industry partners, the event creates new opportunities for business growth, product expansion, and better access to markets. This helps cooperatives grow from being small-scale players into important contributors to the city's economic progress.

The Industry Connect Expo highlights General Santos City’s goal of making sure everyone has a fair chance to succeed in business. It shows the city’s continued support for building a strong, inclusive, and sustainable local economy through active and empowered cooperatives. (CPIO/MBDG)

Photos of: Gia Morales

29/07/2025

𝐑𝐖𝐒𝐀 𝐒𝐮𝐦𝐦𝐢𝐭 𝐇𝐢𝐠𝐡𝐥𝐢𝐠𝐡𝐭𝐬: 𝐀 𝐜𝐥𝐨𝐬𝐞𝐫 𝐥𝐨𝐨𝐤 𝐚𝐭 “𝐇𝐨𝐰 𝐭𝐨 𝐛𝐞 𝐚 𝐂𝐨𝐨𝐩𝐞𝐫𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐯𝐞” – 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐩𝐫𝐨𝐜𝐞𝐬𝐬 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐫𝐞𝐪𝐮𝐢𝐫𝐞𝐦𝐞𝐧𝐭𝐬

The recently concluded Rural Waterworks and Sanitation Association (RWSA) Summit brought together water service associations, community leaders, and development partners across General Santos City in a highly anticipated gathering centered around strengthening rural water governance.

A key highlight of the summit was the technical session titled “How to Be a Cooperative – The Process and the Requirements,” which provided crucial guidance for RWSAs aiming to formalize and professionalize their operations through cooperative formation.

The CEMCDO led by Dr. Leonard V. Flores through its Cooperative Division headed by Ms. Ma. Lessa I. Barcelona, represented by Ms. Abbygayle G. Basio-Laluna, emphasized that transitioning to a cooperative not only strengthens governance and financial systems but also gives communities greater control over their water resources - ensuring accountability, sustainability, and long-term service delivery.

Through this summit, RWSA reaffirmed its commitment to equipping local water associations with the tools and knowledge needed to transition into stronger, more accountable organizations.

18/07/2025

Laying the Foundation: BSP and Cooperative Bank Task Force map out Cooperative Bank process

18 July 2025. BSP representatives discussed the key requirements, procedures, and regulatory considerations involved in establishing a cooeprative bank. They also provided a comprehensive overview of the licensing process, including documentary requirements, capitalization standards, governance structures, and risk management frameworks.

The Task Force on the other hand sought clarification on specific guidelines and raised points related to the feasibility, sustainability, and support mechanisms for cooperative banks.

The meeting concluded with agreements on follow-up actions and continued collaboration to facilitate the development of a robust and viable cooperative banking system.

09/07/2025

Get ready, General Santos!

We’re thrilled to announce the Industry Connect Expo 2025, happening this July 30, 2025 at Yolachs Venue and Catering, Hangar, Mabuhay, General Santos City.

This exciting event will serve as a dynamic platform to strengthen collaboration, establish meaningful connections between key industry stakeholders and the local cooperatives, cultivate mutually beneficial networking opportunities, and forge lasting partnerships that contribute to sustainable development.

Whether you're part of a startup co-op, an established cooperative, or someone passionate about community-driven economies—this expo is for you!

Join us as we build partnerships, spark new ventures, collaborate, and celebrate the cooperative movement that's powering sustainable and inclusive local growth.

Save the date.

For more details, you may contact us here in our official page.

01/07/2025

The Pillars Assemble : Cooperative Banking begins

25 JUNE 2025. A significant meeting laying the foundation for the establishment of a Cooperative Bank gathered veteran cooperative leaders - regarded as the pillars of the movement who expressed their full support for the initiative to ensure the bank remains true to cooperative values.

28/04/2025

𝟐𝟎𝟐𝟓 𝐌𝐢𝐧𝐝𝐚𝐧𝐚𝐨-𝐖𝐢𝐝𝐞 𝐂𝐌𝐏𝐋 𝐂𝐨𝐨𝐩𝐞𝐫𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐯𝐞𝐬 𝐂𝐨𝐧𝐯𝐞𝐧𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧: 𝐀 𝐔𝐧𝐢𝐟𝐢𝐞𝐝 𝐒𝐭𝐞𝐩 𝐓𝐨𝐰𝐚𝐫𝐝 𝐑𝐞𝐠𝐢𝐨𝐧𝐚𝐥 𝐄𝐜𝐨𝐧𝐨𝐦𝐢𝐜 𝐄𝐦𝐩𝐨𝐰𝐞𝐫𝐦𝐞𝐧𝐭

The Mindanao-Wide Consumers, Marketing, Producers, and Logistics (CMPL) Cooperatives Convention spearheaded by the Cooperative Development Authority (CDA) and Sectoral Apex Organization (SAO) in partnership with the Local Government of General Santos City thru CEMCDO - Cooperative Division, was actively participated by almost 500 attendees at Le Grand Prei in General Santos City on April 24, 2025.

This significant event brought together cooperative leaders and members from Regions IX (Zamboanga Peninsula), X (Northern Mindanao), XI (Davao), XII (Soccsksargen), Caraga, and the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM).

The convention aimed to strengthen the cooperative sector across Mindanao through collaboration, knowledge-sharing, and capacity-building.

The convention served as a platform for cooperative leaders to share best practices, address common challenges, and explore collaborative opportunities.

Participants were engaged in discussions on sustainable growth, business opportunities, and the integration of modern technologies in cooperative operations.

The event emphasized the importance of unity and collective action in achieving long-term economic development for Mindanao's communities.

Senator Imee Marcos delivered the keynote address, underscoring the government's commitment to supporting the cooperative sector.

Various seminars and workshop were conducted, focusing on topics such as marketing strategies and business opportunities. These sessions aimed to equip cooperative members with the knowledge and skills necessary to navigate the evolving economic landscape.

The success of the 2025 CMPL Cooperatives Convention marks a significant moment for the cooperative sector in Mindanao. By fostering collaboration and sharing best practices, the event has laid the groundwork for a more cohesive and resilient cooperative movement.

Moving forward, it is anticipated that the insights gained from this convention will lead to the development of more sustainable and impactful cooperative initiatives across the region.

26/03/2025

GenSan LGU Hosts Transport Conference to Drive Modernization

The Local Government Unit (LGU) of General Santos City, through the City Economic Management and Cooperative Development Office, is spearheading the Logistics, Growth, and Progress: General Santos City Transport Conference yesterday, March 24, 2025, at the KCC Convention Center.

The conference has brought together 440 participants from various Tricycle Operators and Drivers Associations (TODAs), National Government Agencies (NGAs), and Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs) to tackle pressing transportation concerns, explore growth opportunities, and discuss advancements in the city’s transport system.

Expressing their support for transport modernization, Congressman Loreto B. Acharon and Councilors Elizabeth Bagunoc and Richard Atendido emphasized the importance of sustainable public transportation. Councilor Dominador Lagare, Jr., Chairperson of the Committee on Cooperative/Transport, presented key ordinances and strategic plans designed to improve the transport sector. He also underscored the vital role of transport cooperatives in driving modernization efforts.

Also present at the event were Engr. Anna Mharize Tano from the PSO, Mr. Reymundo D.J. De Guzman, Chairperson of the Agency Office of the Transport Cooperative, Atty. Pablito Benedian, Jr. from LTFRB Region XII, and PLTCOL Joel Fuerte, Chief of TEU GSCPO.

General Santos City is at the forefront of transport planning, being the first LGU to submit and secure a Notice of Compliance for its Local Public Transport Route Plan (LPTRP). This initiative aims to streamline public transport, enhance travel efficiency, reduce traffic congestion, and promote eco-friendly commuting, ensuring accessibility while adhering to government regulations and strengthening community connectivity.

As the city moves towards transport modernization, the LGU encourages the sector to embrace change without fear or hesitation. The modernization efforts promise significant economic and environmental benefits, paving the way for a more sustainable and progressive General Santos City. (CPIO/JBA/RSC)

Photos by Gia Morales

24/02/2025

The COOP CARAVAN was successfully held on February 21, 2025, at the Function Hall of Barangay Bula, General Santos City. Under the leadership of Dr. Leonard V. Flores, Department Head of the City Economic Management and Cooperative Development Office (CEMCDO), the event brought together key stakeholders in cooperative development. It was organized by CEMCDO in collaboration with the Cooperative Development Authority (CDA) Region 12, the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), and the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE).

With 40 participants, the event was facilitated by Ms. Adelyn C. Yucamco, Project Development Officer III of the Cooperative Division, and Mr. Rhendell Pagco, Technical Staff. The initiative united 13 cooperative members with the shared goal of strengthening local organizations through cooperative development, business generation, and economic sustainability.

The event was a great success, marked by active participation, strong collaboration, and productive engagement. The discussions led to valuable insights, strategic partnerships, and cooperative synergies, enhancing the overall impact of the program.

Several esteemed speakers shared their expertise on cooperative development and economic programs:
• OIC Juriski B. Mangelen, Acting Regional Director, CDA XII – CDA Mandate and its Three Major Functions
• Ms. Florencia G. Roxas, CDS II/Acting Chief, CPDAS-CDA – 2025 Work Plan: Strategies, Programs, and Processes
• Ms. Sharon Faith Medecilo, Trade and Industry Development Specialist, DTI – Creative Industry Development: Industry programs, partnerships, and consultations
• Ms. Criselle Kisha Labrador (RWA) & Ms. Johara Mae D. Capala (DILP, DOLE) – DOLE Integrated Livelihood Program: Livelihood enhancement, restoration, and implementation phases
Following the presentations, the Special Projects Division shared a video on the Business Enterprise Support Trust Fund Program (BEST FUND Program).
The presence of Assistant Department Head Mr. Jose Kevin Z. Sienes and the cooperative team, led by Ms. Maria Lessa I. Barcelona, Supervising Cooperatives Development Specialist, further strengthened the event’s impact. Their support and expertise provided valuable guidance to participants.

The COOP Caravan played a crucial role in advancing cooperative initiatives, empowering local organizations, and fostering economic sustainability. It highlighted the importance of collaboration between local government units (LGUs), CDA XII, DTI, and DOLE, working together to drive economic progress and ensure the success of cooperative enterprises. Through this collective effort, the COOP Caravan helped build a stronger, more resilient cooperative sector, paving the way for sustained growth and community empowerment.
(MIB/ACY)

Cemcdo Cooperative Division

09/09/2025

05/09/2025

26/08/2025

20/08/2025

01/08/2025

29/07/2025

18/07/2025

09/07/2025

01/07/2025

28/04/2025

26/03/2025

24/02/2025

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