The picturesque City of Laoag in Ilocos Norte served as the vibrant backdrop for the Model Cooperative Network General Assembly held on May 26-27, 2023 at the North View Hotel.
The assembly convened cooperative leaders, members, and stakeholders from the entire nation, united in engaging in discussions, strategic planning, and the pursuit of a shared vision for sustainable development and collaborative growth.
The MCN General Assembly was centered around the theme of “Prudential Standards: Sustaining Model Cooperatives Amidst Challenging Times.” The event aimed to explore innovative strategies and best practices that enable cooperatives to play a significant role in achieving sustainable development goals at both the local and national levels while facing unprecedented phenomena. With a diverse range of cooperative sectors represented, including agriculture, finance, retail, and services, the assembly gathered an environment of knowledge-sharing, collaboration, and collective action.
The assembly commenced with an opening address by the MCN Chairperson, Sofronio V. Talisic, a renowned advocate for cooperative development and education. Mr. Talisic emphasized the vital role of cooperatives in promoting inclusive growth and empowering marginalized sectors of society. He highlighted the significance of cooperative networks in driving economic stability, reducing poverty, and ensuring equitable distribution of resources.
The two-day event featured a series of interactive panel discussions and workshops, providing participants with valuable insights and practical tools for enhancing cooperative effectiveness. Distinguished experts, industry leaders, and officials shared their experiences and perspectives on various topics, such as financial management, marketing strategies, governance practices, and sustainable agriculture.
Participants actively engaged in these sessions, exchanging ideas and exploring collaborative opportunities. Workshops facilitated hands-on learning experiences, empowering attendees to implement new strategies within their respective cooperatives. The assembly also showcased successful studies, highlighting the transformative impact of cooperative initiatives on local communities.
Beyond the formal sessions, the assembly provided ample networking time. Cooperative leaders and members had the chance to establish meaningful connections, creating lifelong partnerships and alliances that could amplify collective impact.
With its engaging discussions and practical workshops, the event inspired cooperative members to revitalize the cooperative principles and create greater collaboration among cooperatives. The assembly raised awareness of how cooperatives can drive inclusive economic development and create vibrant communities.