The 6th Annual Representative Assembly of Tagum Cooperative convened on March 24, 2024, marking another significant gathering of District Representatives. Guided by the theme “Navigating New Horizons: Elevating Service Excellence towards Sustained Adherence to Cooperative International Standards,” the assembly served as a platform for management, officers, and committees to showcase the highlights and achievements of CY 2023.
This year witnessed a historic first as the assembly embraced a blended platform, accommodating a total of 788 District Representatives, who participated both face-to-face and online.
The assembly commenced with an uplifting eucharistic celebration officiated by Most Rev. Medil S. Aseo, D.D., Bishop of the Diocese of Tagum. In his homily, Most Rev. Aseo emphasized the essence of cooperativism, promoting unity and collective effort to uplift community members’ lives. The Holy Mass offered was in celebration of thanksgiving with great triumph to the Lord God, Almighty, for all the blessings and deliverance.
Following the solemn ceremony, the opening ceremony commenced with great enthusiasm. The Incumbent Officers, Senior Management, and Lead District Representatives, along with Branch Managers, joyfully entered the venue, setting a vibrant tone for the assembly. The event kicked off with a spirited dance performance titled “Sama-sama Tayo,” and a festivity dance performance from the Dance Theater Guild, symbolizing unity and harmony among cooperative members. And then Board members Engr. Jose Alvic P. Suaybaguio and Gertrudes L. Yap extended warm acknowledgments to guests and participants.
The assembly continued with heartfelt messages from Board of Directors members, including Board Member Eduard C. Amoguis and Chairperson Nenita R. Malbas. Malbas highlighted Tagum Cooperative’s remarkable journey and financial excellence achieved through collaborative efforts. She expressed gratitude for the trust bestowed upon the cooperative and reaffirmed its commitment to delivering excellent service.
The report by Chief Executive Officer Juris D. Perez further exudes Tagum Cooperative’s achievements in CY 2023, including substantial financial milestones and operational highlights. Notable achievements included ₱14 Billion Assets, ₱1.35 Billion Surplass, ₱14.239 Billion Total Assets, ₱11.996 Billion Loan Portfolio, ₱5.357 Billion Share Capital, ₱5.440 Billion Deposits, ₱1.352 Billion Net Surplus, 94.07% Collection Efficiency, Zero External Borrowing,169, 391 Membership, and 69, 857 Youth Members.
Celebratory announcements followed with great enthusiasm announced that Tagum Cooperative is ISO Certified by the TÜV NORD Philippines, Inc., following the prestigious recognitions as FOCCUS Platinum Branded and ACCESS Gold Branded.
The assembly also received congratulatory messages from esteemed officials of Cooperative Federations and Organizations, emphasizing the cooperative movement’s significance on a global scale.
Meanwhile, a significant part of the assembly was the Awarding Ceremony, which honored outstanding employees, officers, and distinguished members. Board Member Monica L. Salido presented a video showcasing the event’s highlights and achievements.
At the heart of the 6th Annual Representative Assembly is the business proper, presided over by Chairperson Nenita R. Malbas, who addressed official reports and attendees’ inquiries with the help of concerned officers and management. The declaration of this year’s Patronage Refund and Interest on Share Capital (PRISC) elicited applause, reinforcing the cooperative’s commitment to member’s welfare.
The assembly concluded with a Closing Statement by Board Member Janet T. Matuguinas and a Closing Prayer led by Board Member Vicente P. Binag, culminating in a joyous and fruitful event for all participants.Once again, Tagum Cooperative proved that the cooperative spirit is flourishing within every member, officer, management and employee. Indeed, in Tagum Cooperative, the value and culture of mutual help, community-building, solidarity, and coming together with a common goal is continually lived for. These, in essence, create an institution where all members feel connected, belong, engaged, and motivated to support the cooperative movement and endeavor. Michelle B. Claridad