CO-OPS before are established in order to seek assistance from government agencies but now, they serve as one of the capacity sources of the government.
Just this December, the cooperatives operating in La Trinidad turned out to be Santa Claus as they gave an early present to the people of the municipality. The sector has turned-over the set of Public Address System equipment to the Local Government Unit of La Trinidad.
With an estimated amount of 40,000.00, the Municipal Co-op Development Council donated an amplifier, rolls of wire, speakers and adaptors. The donations will be installed at the critical collection points of garbage to monitor the proper observance of waste management in the locality.
The project was realized after the sector approved to remit 5% of its Community Development Fund to the municipality’s co-op council. The council together with the Project Committee composed of representatives from micro, small, medium and large co-ops developed the mechanisms on the implementation of the program. One project will be implemented every year and as of this writing, an amount of 170,000.00 was collected from the contributions of cooperatives.
Council Chairperson, Thaddeus Bernardo, Sr. said that the activity shows that co-ops in the valley are united and are ready partners of the LGU towards community development.
The Municipal Environment and Natural Resources Office headed by Mr. Arthur Pedro will spearhead the monitoring and maintenance of the equipment. Mr. Pedro vowed to lobby for the purchase of CCTV Cameras to complement with the efficient and effective implementation of the program. The efforts of the cooperatives will back the existing ‘Bantay Basura’ program of the municipality, one of the best practices of La Trinidad in managing wastes.
Mayor Romeo Salda together with other municipal officials thanked the sector for coming up with such innovative program that aims to support the thrusts of the municipality. He added that the LGU will continue to uphold and strengthen the cooperative development programs of his administration.
***
On behalf of my family, may I wish all readers a bright and Merry Christmas. May the blessings of the infant savior be yours.