CLARK FREEPORT -- Clark Development Corporation (CDC) is set to create cooperative programs for its employees.

This, after the recent signing of a memorandum of agreement (MOA) with the Cooperative Development Authority (CDA) held at the Clark Skills and Training Center.

CDC President Noel Manankil and CDA Executive Director Ray Elevazo signed the MOA for the provision of the cooperative program for employees.

Manankil said the creation of a cooperative will encourage locators to help workers stretch their salaries once a commissary is built within the freeport.

"We [are] committed sa CDC. Kung mayroon ng good number ng cooperatives (If there is a good number of cooperatives), then we can federate the cooperatives. I hope we can count on your support," Manankil said, referring to the members of various cooperatives present during the signing of the agreement.

CDC employees have established their own cooperative, ACCES Multi-Purpose Cooperative, in 2005.

The cooperative program, with the theme "Kooperatiba: Kaagapay sa Kabuhayan ng Manggagawa," aims to provide better working conditions for Clark employees.

Pampanga Vice Governor Lilia Pineda and Mabalacat City Mayor Cris Garbo's representative, Frank Madlangbayan, were also present during the event.

Also witnessing the MOA signing were representatives from the Subic Bay Multipurpose Cooperative and Starboard Manpower Services Inc. Credit Cooperative.