SENATOR Christopher Go has pushed for key amendments in the national budget during last year’s Senate deliberations, with particular focus on the Cooperative Development Authority (CDA) to strengthen the country’s cooperative sector .
President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. signed the P5.768-trillion 2024 General Appropriations Act (GAA) on December 20, 2023.
The CDA was granted an additional P20 million through Go’s efforts, marking a substantial increase in support for this crucial sector. The funding is earmarked for the Human Capital Development Program for Cooperatives, aimed at enhancing the capabilities of qualified cooperatives.
Go, expressing his views on this development, said, “The heart of a strong nation lies in its communities. By empowering our cooperatives, we’re not just supporting small businesses; we’re strengthening the backbone of our local economies.”
Go’s move aligns with his on-going commitment to foster sustainable community development towards inclusive economic recovery. The Human Capital Development Program for Cooperatives is expected to provide financial assistance and capacity-building initiatives, enhancing the skills and competencies of cooperative members.
“Cooperatives play a pivotal role in our nation’s progress. This additional funding will enable them to expand their services, reach more people, and most importantly, contribute significantly to our country’s overall economic development.” Go added reflecting on the significance of this initiative.
Earlier, Go co-authored Senate Bill No. 1855, now Republic Act No. 11535, signed into law by former president Rodrigo Duterte in 2021.
This law mandates the appointment of cooperative development officers in all local government units, further bolstering the cooperative movement in the country.
“This is just the beginning. We will continue to identify and support initiatives that bolster our cooperatives. Their success is the nation’s success,” Go said.