Senator Christopher Lawrence “Bong” Go on Friday stressed that cooperatives remain a powerful force in empowering ordinary Filipinos and strengthening communities, as he addressed leaders and members of the Cooperative National Association of Training Centers for Cooperatives (NATCCO) during its 9th National Party Congress held in Davao City.
Go said cooperatives play a role far greater than profit-making, noting that they embody solidarity, mutual support, and collective advancement.
He explained that cooperatives thrive on a shared vision, where growth is not enjoyed by a few but becomes an opportunity for all members to rise together.
“Ang kooperatiba ay hindi lang negosyo. Ito ay pagkakaisa ng mga tao na may iisang pangarap. Kapag may umuunlad, dapat lahat ay may pagkakataong sumabay, may pagkakataong makabangon, at may pagkakataong umasenso,” the senator said.
NATCCO, now operating as the National Confederation of Cooperatives, convened the national congress to bring together its leadership and members in recognition of teamwork, resilience, and collective achievement.
The senator said he has consistently seen how cooperatives help small entrepreneurs overcome challenges such as limited capital and access to resources, adding that these realities shaped his belief in cooperation as a pathway to inclusive progress.
“I saw early on what small entrepreneurs go through limited capital, limited support, but endless perseverance. Those humble experiences shaped my view that progress becomes much more possible when people work together, and no one is left behind,” he said.
Go also underscored the value of perseverance, saying that long-term and meaningful success is built through hard work and dedication, especially when members themselves nurture and grow their cooperatives.
The senator also cited his support for landmark measures that strengthen the sector, including Republic Act No. 11535, which requires the designation of Cooperative Development Officers in local government units, and Republic Act No. 11502, which declares October as National Cooperative Month to highlight cooperative achievements nationwide.
He said these laws aim to equip cooperatives with stronger institutional backing while promoting greater public awareness of their contributions to national development.
