March 27, 2025 — Members of micro-cooperatives from Lantapan, Bukidnon attended the Fundamentals of Cooperatives Seminar in Lantapan, Bukidnon.

The Fundamentals of Cooperatives Seminar is typically delivered by the Cooperative Development Authority (CDA) as a mandatory orientation for officers of micro-cooperatives. Recognizing the value of a more inclusive approach, the project seeks to extend this essential training to cooperative members as well. By doing so, members gain a deeper understanding of what a cooperative is, its core principles, and the purpose behind its creation. This knowledge empowers them to engage more actively in cooperative operations and decision-making processes.

More importantly, this initiative is designed solely for internal capacity-building to foster a sense of ownership and participation among members. It is not intended to duplicate or replace the official role of the CDA in fulfilling its regulatory and developmental mandate.

By understanding cooperative governance, members can enhance their skills to better organize their cooperatives. This empowerment leads to more informed decisions, resulting in success, and a more sustainable livelihood. 

RISE (Responsible Investments and Shared Empowerment) is an ADRA Philippines project funded by ADRA Hong Kong. It provides women, farmers, and entrepreneurs with access to capital, enhances their financial and business skills through training, and fosters partnerships with financial institutions, educational organizations, and faith-based groups.