Please borrow, CDA Usec Raquepo urges members of cooperatives
By: Nonnette C. Bennett
BAGUIO CITY, 17 October 2025 – Cooperative Development Authority (CDA)Undersecretary Alexander Raquepo told cooperative leaders to borrow money from their cooperatives because this is what makes the organizations successful.
During the Baguio Citywide celebration of the Cooperative Month at the Golden Pine Hotel, USec Raquepo urged representatives of the various cooperatives in the city, “Pangaasi yo, umutang kayo!” In the face of corruption issues in the country, he said that it is only the coop where every centavo is properly invested and accounted for. Thus, the low lending rates are beneficial to the borrower and the cooperative.
He encouraged three points to celebrate the cooperative month. He said to remember past leaders who built the successful associations to recognize them and express gratitude for the opportunities.
Second, he said that it is the best time to share stories of success and failure. Governance is the single biggest thing that affects the rise or fall of the coop. This is doing the right thing for the benefit and welfare of the members. Leadership is the valuable facet in everyday operations of the cooperatives.
Third, the grooming and encouragement of the youth to be part of the cooperative is important too. This according to Raquepo would enhance, grow, and develop the cooperatives in the future. They should be guided to start saving in the program of the cooperative to learn the ropes.
He expressed hope that the cooperatives become recognized by President Ferdinand Marcos, Jr. in the next State of the Nation Address for its social development efforts all over the country.
