Cagayan de Oro has been the cradle of the co-operative movement in Mindanao. Several of country’s pioneering co-operative institutions have been founded and are currently based in the city. Throughout the years, they have played a crucial role in the city’s economic growth; promoting financial inclusivity to those who are marginalized and un-bankable.

 

As COVID-19 pandemic continues to test the Kagay-anon’s resilience, the co-operative movement also continues to be one of CdeO’s partner in forging solidarity among Kagay-anons during these difficult times.

 

In compliance with Republic Act 11469 or the “Bayanihan to Heal As One Act,” CdeO co-ops implemented the minimum thirty (30)-day grace period for the payment of all loans of their members falling due within the period of the General Community Quarantine, without incurring interest on interest, penalties, fees, or other charges. They also carry on with their operations, while implementing precautionary measures like social distancing, so they can still provide the products and services to their members.

 

Cash assistance, and food have also been distributed to their members helping them to cope with the implications of the ongoing community quarantine status. The workforce of co-operatives was not forgotten in this time of crisis. Most co-op staff continued to receive their regular pay despite the shortened work-day and work-from-home arrangements.

 

Apart from making financial services available to members, the co-operatives mobilized their resources to extend support to various communities in Cde.

 

Kagay-anon co-operatives are part of the global humanitarian effort to ease the burden on people, especially those who are most vulnerable. Although co-operatives are among those affected by the coronavirus pandemic, they continue to serve their members and respective communities at this time of great need.

 

Co-operatives also took leverage with digital technology to continue their services to their members. Oro Integrated Co-operative launched its Online Membership Portal to cater those Kagay-anons who want to be OIC members.

 

 

Nestle Coop distributed two pieces of fresh dressed chicken to each member and staff as part of their assistance during the community quarantine.

 

Nestle Coop distributed two pieces of fresh dressed chicken to each member and staff as part of their assistance during the community quarantine.

 

Oro Integrated Co-operative provided 14 barangays in Cagayan de Oro City with knapsack sprayers to aid them in their fight against the spread of COVID-19. Each spray tanks can fill up to 16 liters of cleaning solution which can be used to disinfect possible contaminated areas.

 

The staff of MASS-SPECC Co-operative Development Center, the largest regional co-op in the Philippines, turned over 15 gallons of bleach to the representative of Barangay 11.

 

Understanding the essential role of LGUs, especially the barangay workers in the smooth implementation of the community quarantine, MASS-SPECC Co-operative Development Center donated over 400 washable face masks to Barangay 11, CDOC.

 

The staff of the First Community Cooperative (FICCO) initiated making face shields that can be used by the frontliners in CdeO.

 

CLIMBS Life and General Insurance Cooperative donated Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) to Northern Mindanao Medical Center (NMMC), in partnership with Xavier University Association of Law Students.

 

 

MASS-SPECC delivered 100 sacks of rice to the Macajalar Wharf Porters Association Federation of Free Workers Multi-Purpose Cooperative. These were then distributed to their members whose livelihoods have been affected.

 

 

Apart from providing relief to their members, Del Monte Philippines, Inc. - Employees and Community Credit Cooperative delivered relief goods in Bugo, Cagayan de Oro City.