Strengthening Cooperatives: NVSU, CDA Region 2 Ink MOA

After a discussion on potential partnership for offering Training of Trainers (TOTs) programs for Cooperative Training Providers (CTPROs) last September 2024, Nueva Vizcaya State University (NVSU) and the Cooperative Development Authority Region 2 (CDA R2) formalized their collaboration through a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) signing ceremony held at NVSU Bayombong Campus, October 14, 2024.

Atty. Jovilyn Gaffud-Marquez, Director of CDA R2, emphasized the importance of this initiative, explaining that the MOA supports CDA’s mandate to equip accredited training providers with the skills necessary to train cooperative officers and members effectively.

 She added that this collaboration between CDA R2 and NVSU is essential for ensuring that cooperative training providers are well-prepared to deliver quality programs that meet the needs of their cooperatives.

“This MOA is a significant step towards enhancing the capacity of cooperative training providers. The partnership underscores our shared commitment to leverage expertise and equip trainers with the necessary skills to ensure effective delivery,” Atty. Marquez stated.

Meanwhile, NVSU President Dr. Wilfredo A. Dumale Jr. echoed Atty. Marquez’s views, recognizing the role of cooperatives in the local economy and the importance of capacity-building programs to support their growth.

"Strong cooperativism is evident in Nueva Vizcaya, and our university, through its own cooperative, has long been a supporter of this movement. This partnership with CDA will further strengthen our efforts to help cooperatives grow and thrive, particularly in Region 2,” Dr. Dumale said.

He highlighted that NVSU’s role in facilitating this partnership is supported by the university’s extension and training initiatives, which have already generated positive outcomes in entrepreneurship and cooperative development.

According to Dr. Dumale, the university has successfully implemented various training programs that have empowered cooperative groups and created numerous entrepreneurs.

 “We want to capacitate the university further to support cooperatives in their establishment, strengthening, and wealth-building efforts here in Region 2, particularly in Nueva Vizcaya. This collaboration with CDA is a welcome opportunity, and we are committed to making it a success,” Dr. Dumale added.

Asec. Abdulsalam A. Guinomla, Board Member III and Head of the Education and Advocacy Union (EAU) Cluster, who was represented by Mr. Arghanaim Ambulodto, also delivered a short congratulatory message where he praised CDA R2 and NVSU for the successful MOA signing.

"This partnership is a fulfillment of RA 11364, which mandates the collaboration between CDA and college and state universities to strengthen our cooperatives. By joining forces, we fill the gaps necessary to build strong and vibrant cooperatives that contribute to national economic growth, equity, and social justice," he said.

Completing the key figures of the MOA signing, who also served as witness , were CDA R2 staff; Mr. Arturo Palafox representing the Provincial Cooperative and Enterprise Development Office (PCEDO); Dr. Nieto Bacena, Chair of the NVSU Multipurpose Cooperative Board of Directors and the NV Cooperative Federation; Vice President for Administration and Finance, Dr. Cristina R. Salvosa; Vice President for Planning Development and Information Systems, Dr. Carlo F. Vadil, represented by Director Arshiela G. Manuel of the Planning Office; Director Maribel Bacena of NVSU Extension and Training, and other NVSU personnel.