CHAMPIONING COOPERATIVES, EMPOWERING COMMUNITIES

The Cooperative Development Authority (CDA) serves as the government agency mandated to promote, develop, and regulate cooperatives in the Philippines, as well as adjudicate intra and inter-cooperative disputes.

- LEIGHLANY T. CARIASO

Established in 1990 through Republic Act No. 6939, the CDA was created to foster a strong cooperative movement that empowers communities, promotes economic self-reliance, and enhances social development.

It serves as the primary implementing agency of Republic Act No. 6938, or the Cooperative Code of the Philippines, which was later amended by Republic Act No. 9520, otherwise known as the Philippine Cooperative Code of 2008.

Further strengthening cooperative support, the passage of Republic Act No. 10744, or the Credit Surety Fund (CSF) Act of 2015, has provided greater financial access to cooperatives and micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs).

This law institutionalized the CSF Program, which enables cooperatives and MSMEs with limited collateral to obtain loans from banks through a pooled surety fund contributed by cooperatives, local government units, and partner institutions.

By reducing borrowing constraints and enhancing creditworthiness, the CSF Act empowers cooperatives to expand their businesses and improve their members' livelihoods.

The Financial Products and Consumer Protection Act of 2022 (RA 11765) ensures fair, transparent, and responsible financial services by protecting consumer rights and strengthening regulatory oversight.

As a key implementing agency, the CDA plays a vital role in enforcing consumer protection measures within the cooperative sector.

The CDA ensures that financial service cooperatives uphold transparency, prevent fraudulent practices, and safeguard member interests.

Through regulatory policies, education, and compliance monitoring, the CDA helps cooperatives foster trust, financial stability, and ethical business practices, reinforcing their role in inclusive economic growth.