The 6th Regional Cooperative Summit was successfully held on October 28–29, 2025, at Badsbro, Ipil, Zamboanga Sibugay, bringing together over 700 participants representing various cooperatives across Region IX (Zamboanga Peninsula). The two-day event served as a vital platform for discussing cooperative development strategies, government policies, and emerging opportunities within the cooperative sector. The summit served as a strategic platform for discussing key policies, development plans, and collaborative initiatives that strengthen the cooperative movement’s role in promoting inclusive and sustainable regional growth.

It’s proved to be a resounding success, uniting more than 700 participants from across the Zamboanga Peninsula to reaffirm the cooperative sector’s pivotal role in regional development. Through meaningful discussions, updates on key policies, and strengthened collaboration, the summit reinforced the commitment of cooperatives to advance inclusive growth and contribute significantly to a more dynamic and vibrant region.

Celebrating Cooperative Month in style!

KACOOP proudly wears our new shirts sponsored by KMFI and Ma’am Mercedes G. Faustino, KMFI President and CEO.

A heartfelt thank you for your continued support. Together, we grow stronger as one cooperative family.

The event brought together leaders of cooperatives, farmer‑groups, local government units, and other stakeholders. The Kasanyangan Agriculture Cooperative (KACOOP) was represented by its Chairperson and Vice‑Chairperson, reflecting the cooperative’s commitment to engaging in local leadership forums and forging collaborations.

Small hands can make a big wave. Every piece of trash we pick up is a step toward a cleaner, healthier ocean.

In Celebration of Cooperative’s Month, KACOOP proudly joined the coastal clean-up to show that cooperation goes beyond business — it’s about caring for our communities and the environment too. Held at Bouelvard, Cawa-cawa Zamboanga City.

The 𝗘𝗨 𝗕𝗔𝗘𝗣 through the 𝗞𝗠𝗙𝗜–𝗪𝗘𝗘-𝗦𝗔𝗙𝗘 𝗣𝗿𝗼𝗷𝗲𝗰𝘁, in partnership with the Ministry of Labor and Employment (MOLE)–Basilan and the City Agriculture Office–Lamitan, successfully held a one-day orientation at Lamitan Plaza Restaurant. The session focused on the WEE-SAFE Project, MOLE’s programs, and registration requirements for Small Rubber Grower Associations and farm workers in Lamitan City.

The activity was led by MOLE Basilan Provincial Director, Ms. Amna Farrah Alihuddin who served as the main resource person for MOLE-related topics. Support was also provided by Ms. Ester Domingo and her team from the Lamitan City Agriculture Office, ensuring participants received accurate and relevant information.

This initiative aimed to equip grassroots organizations with a clear understanding of MOLE’s

registration process empowering them with legal identity and unlocking access to government programs, services, and economic opportunities.

A total of 17 Rubber Smallholder Grower Associations from various barangays actively participated, represented by their officers. These included: Balobo, Colonia, Balas, Baungus, Ulame, Arco, Look, Malo-ong San Jose, Malo-ong Canal, Danit Puntukan, Cabobo, Baimbing, Tumakid, Sabong, Buahan, Calugusan, and Campo Uno.

This orientation marks a significant step toward strengthening community-based organizations and ensuring they are well-prepared to thrive within formal development frameworks.

Our KMFI President – Ms. Mercedes Faustino, KFI Vice President – Mr. Edgardo Faustino and KMBA General Manager – Ms. Ma. Teresa Gonzales, along with some of our dedicated officers, recently attended the 3-day Microfinance MBA Association Forum in Kalibo, Aklan, from August 27-29, 2025. the forum’s theme, “Mi-MBAs: Driving, Thriving, Transforming,” provided us with valuable insights to better serve our members and strengthen our micro insurance