Philippine Fisheries Development Authority (PFDA), through its isDA ON THE GO Business Office (IBO), took part in a webinar series led by Cooperative Development Authority (CDA) Region III entitled “Programang Pangkooperatiba” in line with CDA’s 32nd anniversary on March 8, 2022.
The online webinar aims to share programs and opportunities that can be availed by various cooperatives across the region through CDA partner agencies, including PFDA and its isDA ON THE GO (iOTG) Flagship Project.
Ms. Camille An I. Moog of PFDA – Operations Services Department led the presentation of the iOTG orientation. During her lecture, Ms. Moog delivered a detailed presentation about the program objectives and operation of iOTG. She also explained the business model, product lines (frozen fish and fresh fish), and distribution channels of the project.
Additionally, Ms. Moog presented the accomplishments and ways forward of the iOTG program, as well as the roles and responsibilities of PFDA and the CDA cooperatives once the partnership occurs.
To benefit from this partnership project between PFDA and CDA, cooperatives must adhere to several requirements and must achieve certain criteria. The CDA-certified cooperatives must: (1) sign a contract agreement with PFDA; (2) have at least 6 square meters of space; (3) can oversee and process point of sale purchase; (4) have the capacity for bookkeeping and asset inventory management; (5) have a minimum of three years in operation; (6) have a CDA Certificate of Good Standing; and (7) preferably with members from the marginalized sector.
During the open forum, Quality Assurance Division - OSD Officer-In-Charge Mr. Emilio Paul M. Candelaria and Regional & Municipal Project Operations Division Chief Ms. Janet T. Manalo responded to questions and concerns from the members of the cooperatives in the region. Some concerns about requirements and application were also given further clarification during the group discussion.
Some 200 representatives and participants from CDA Region III, Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources Region III, Technical Education and Skills Development Authority Region III, and various cooperatives from all provinces in the region actively participated in the webinar.
(Mark Angelo N. Perez – Public Information Division)