The STRIKE Gymnasium in the City of Bacoor was filled with the energy of cooperative members from across the province of Cavite, as they gathered for the much-anticipated Cooperative Month celebration opening salvo on October 11, 2024. Organized by the Office of the Provincial Cooperative Development Officer (OPCDO), the event brought together cooperatives from various cities and municipalities in the province to celebrate unity and collaboration.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Prominent local and national leaders graced the occasion, including Senator Francis Tolentino, Bacoor City Mayor Strike Revilla, Vice Mayor Rowena Mendiola Bautista, 7th District Board Member Francisco Gabriel “Abeng” Remulla, 2nd District Board Member Ram Revilla, and 2nd District Representative Lani Mercado-Revilla. Key figures in the cooperative movement also attended, notably Dr. Jose R. Domingo, Jr., Chairperson of the Cavite Provincial Cooperative Development Council (PCDC), Mr. Jose Arnel S. Castillo, Cooperative Development Specialist II, Cooperative Development Authority Region IV-A Director Salvador V. Valeroso, and, Mr. Rodrigo M. Camia, Chairman Emeritus, Cavite PCDC.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Mr. Alvin S. Mojica, head of the OPCDO, expressed his heartfelt gratitude for the unwavering support and active participation of all the cooperative members. He emphasized the crucial role that cooperatives play in driving local economic development, empowering communities, and fostering inclusivity across Cavite.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Adding to the event’s excitement is the Trade Fair and Exhibits showcasing a wide array of local products from various Cavite cooperatives. The exhibits are evidence of the entrepreneurial spirit of Cavite\u00f1os, offering everything from handmade crafts and local delicacies to agricultural products, emphasizing the economic potential and creativity of the province.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The program was a vibrant showcase of cooperative spirit, with performances from the “Coop Talent” segment, where members shared their musical skills, proving that cooperatives know more than just business but they also know how to entertain. The Cooperative dancing competition added to the festivity, further displaying the diverse talents and unity of the cooperative community.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Capping off the event, a raffle was held, with participants excitedly awaiting their turn to win prizes, bringing a joyful close to the gathering.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The successful opening salvo marks the beginning of a series of activities designed to strengthen and expand the cooperative movement in Cavite, paving the way for greater collaboration and progress in the months ahead.— R. Tanael<\/p>\n\n\n\n