IN partnership with the Cooperative Development Authority (CDA), Sen. Bong Go spearheaded the Malasakit sa Kooperatiba Ceremonial Check Awarding at Royce Convention Center in Zamboanga City on June 30.

A total of 23 cooperatives from various cities and municipalities in Region 9 (Zamboanga Peninsula) received P50,000 each from the CDA as part of its Malasakit sa Kooperatiba program, which Senator Go advocated for, highlighting his commitment to empowering cooperatives across the country.

"The funds allocated to qualified cooperatives can be used to enhance the livelihoods of their members, aligned with the needs of the sectors they represent," said Go in Filipino.

"This fund can serve as capital for their members, or it can be used as an investment to strengthen their small businesses," he added.

The senator was also joined by Zamboanga del Norte officials, including Siayan Mayor Alberto Bongcawel and Vice Mayor Josecor Gepolongca, Sibuco Mayor Joel Ventura, Sirawai Mayor Aljazar Janihim, Labason Mayor Jed Quimbo, and Siay, Zamboanga Sibugay Mayor Josecor Gepolongca.

Apart from the financial support provided through the CDA, the cooperative members present also received grocery packs, shirts, basketballs and volleyballs from the senator.

Go's initiative is part of the CDA's Human Capital Development Program for Cooperatives, which he advocated for additional funding in the 2024 budget. This includes the Malasakit sa Kooperatiba Program, providing financial assistance to micro and small cooperatives.

"One big advantage of cooperatives is your unity to uplift not only your group's livelihood but also that of the entire community you belong to. This support will help achieve the goal of every cooperative to improve the livelihoods of your community," he added.

In his speech, Go emphasized the critical role of cooperatives in fostering community development and their significant contributions to local economies.

"I urge each cooperative to utilize this support wisely and strategically. Let it be a tool for innovation, development, and progress. Whether it's enhancing your operations, expanding your services, or initiating new community programs, let every peso contribute to the betterment of your community," he said.

Go co-authored and co-sponsored several vital legislations, including Republic Act (RA) 11502, which declares October of every year as National Cooperative Month, and RA 11535, making the position of a Cooperatives Development Officer mandatory in municipal, city, and provincial levels. His involvement in the Senate Committee on Cooperatives further underscores his dedication to this sector.