The Agdao Multipurpose Cooperative (AMPC) announced that it is currently in the process of preserving evidence to support complaints that will be filed against individuals who forcibly entered the head office of the cooperative in Bo. Obrero, Davao City, on Saturday.
According to Lawyer Gibb Andrew Cabahug, AMPC’s legal counsel, approximately 50 individuals—composed of members, those absent without leave (AWOL), and terminated employees—allegedly broke into the office.
Cabahug stated that probable cases to be filed against the identified individuals include coercion, physical injury, damage to property, and attempted robbery. He alleged that these individuals tried to access steel cabinets containing original receipts, certificates of registration, and loan documents, which are securely stored.
“Those who stormed the office that night—some of them are delinquent members, some are not even members, but are relatives—nonetheless entered the head office. They have weaponized the sentiments of well-intentioned members,” Cabahug said during a press conference.
Currently, AMPC has around 70,000 members across the Visayas and Mindanao regions.
Cabahug reassured members who have expressed a desire to withdraw their capital and membership from the cooperative following the incident that their requests would be honored in due time.
“My assurance is that we will provide the audited financial statements. The money is not in the banks but has been loaned out. While members can access loans, these are currently limited due to the situation. We want the audited financial statements to address members’ concerns and establish credibility. Credibility cannot exist without evidence; without it, assurances are mere lip service,” he said.
Regarding the cooperative’s financial status, Cabahug emphasized that the external audit of AMPC’s financial statements will be finalized by April 3.
“By that time, we will hold an explanatory conference to present the financial condition to our members. A separate forum will also be arranged for this purpose,” he said.
Cabahug also highlighted that the cooperative’s priority is addressing members’ concerns after the incident. These concerns include issues with withdrawals and deposits, loan applications, and payments that were made but not properly recorded.
Meanwhile, Michael John M. Gestopa, AMPC’s General Manager, assured that the cooperative remains committed to upholding the “rule of law” and safeguarding its assets and operations.
“Rest assured that the incumbent officers and management of the Agdao Multi-Purpose Cooperative are strictly adhering to the rule of law and court orders,” Gestopa said.
Gestopa also challenged critics to present solid evidence to support their allegations of corruption.
In a statement released on Saturday, AMPC confirmed an ongoing court case at the Court of Appeals, which recognizes the current management and Board of Directors through a Writ of Preliminary Injunction (WPI).
“We kindly ask everyone to respect the law and refrain from being swayed by emotions. Ultimately, we all share the same goal: the welfare and prosperity of our cooperative,” the statement said.
