Sunday, September 25, 2011

Cooperativism gains headway in Philippines

September 25, 2011, 8:00am

MANILA, Philippines — Cooperatives, whether they are groups of farmers, fishermen, vendors, or electricity users banding together for a common purpose, are people-centered organizations formed to benefit its members. They are government partners in the delivery of livelihood and micro-entrepreneurial activities geared to addressing the problems of illiteracy and poverty. They help alleviate the living conditions of members through marketing support, credit facilities, new technology, adult education, livelihood opportunities, and scholarships for children.

In the Philippines, cooperatives are registered with the Cooperative Development Authority, created by Republic Act 6939, and signed into law on March 10, 1990, to promote the viability and growth of cooperatives as instruments of equity, social justice and economic development. Cooperatives are based on the values of self-help, self-responsibility, equality, equity and solidarity. The members learn honesty, transparency, social responsibility and caring for others. The use of funds is for mutual, rather than individual, benefit.

Cooperativism in the Philippines started in the 19th Century when Filipino travellers to Europe, including the National Hero Dr. Jose P. Rizal, brought the idea of the economic movement to the country. While in exile in Dapitan, Dr. Rizal set up a school for the poor and a store on a cooperative basis.

Today, cooperatives are gaining momentum as vehicles for the economic empowerment of poor and rural Filipino workers. There are more than 20,00 registered cooperatives nationwide, and they help in the pursuit of people-oriented projects to benefit target beneficiaries, especially small farmers and fisherfolk.

It is hoped that given more government incentives as well as private sector support, the cooperative movement in the country will continue to flourish and make a difference in the lives of many Filipinos.

http://www.mb.com.ph/articles/335500/cooperativism-gains-headway-philippines

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