CDA's Public Utilities Cluster pioneers National Convergence of Transport Cooperative Leaders

THE Cooperative Development Authority (CDA) through the Public Utilities Cluster (PUC), headed by Assistant Secretary Myrla Paradillo, hosted the inaugural National Convergence of Transport Cooperatives at the Subic Bay Travelers Hotel in Subic, Zambales on June 27 to 28, 2024.This landmark event was attended by nearly 500 transport cooperative leaders across the country, key officials from the Department of Transportation (DoTr), Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB), Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (Tesda), Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG), CDA and PUC - Sectoral Apex Organization. It aimed to bring together key stakeholders from the transport sector to present the results of various initiatives to discuss and address pressing issues, share best practices and set the direction for future developments. The convergence provided a platform for government agencies, cooperative leaders and industry experts to collaborate on initiatives, aimed at enhancing the efficiency, professionalism and sustainability of transport cooperatives across the Philippines.The event began with a warm welcome message from CDA Chairman Undersecretary Joseph Encabo.Encabo stated, "The national government agencies involved in the development of public transportation are not perfect, but they are doing everything to provide perfect service for the sector."Assistant Secretary Paradillo outlined the objectives of the event. Meanwhile, messages of support were delivered by Raymundo de Guzman Jr. of DoTr and Roel Casipit of LTFRB. A resolution from transport cooperative leaders, containing the results of six consultative meetings across the country, was then presented to the LTFRB.The keynote speaker, Tesda Deputy Director General Vidal Villanueva 3rd, emphasized the importance of skilled personnel for the successful operations of transport cooperatives, saying: "We need skilled people for the successful operations of transport cooperatives, which is why Tesda aims to professionalize these individuals through seminars, training and the issuance of national certificates."The second day of the event commenced with a message from CDA Administrator Santiago Lim, who underscored the significance of transforming transportation cooperatives through education and technology. This was followed by a message from Assistant Secretary Pendatun Disimban, who highlighted the need to unite and focus on solving the issues of the transport sector rather than the government system as a whole to achieve more immediate results.Meanwhile, Odilon Pasaraba, career executive service officer 3, undersecretary for Project Development Management of DILG, delivered a message of support, underscoring that the jeepney has long been the face of Philippine culture."The Local Public Transport Route Plan will be included as one of the requirements for the Seal of Good Local Governance," Pasaraba said.A resolution from the transport cooperative leaders was then presented to the DILG.Messages from Assistant Secretaries Luz Yringco and Vergel Hilario followed, both highlighting the importance of education and training to address the problems in the sector.During the second leg of the activity, the Training of Trainers on crafted modules for transport service cooperatives was announced, and an accounting system specialized for transportation cooperatives was launched.In conclusion, Regional Director Marieta Hwang of CDA Region 3 Extension Office delivered her closing remarks, saying, "We will unite for the transformation of our transportation cooperative sector."The event concluded with a media conference.The first convergence successfully brought together key stakeholders from various national government agencies and transport cooperative leaders, fostering collaboration and innovation in the transport sector.By addressing the critical need for skilled personnel, technological advancements and continuous education, the National Convergence of Transport Cooperatives marked a significant step forward in transforming the Philippine public transportation system.The resolutions and initiatives set forth during this convergence would pave the way for a more efficient, professional and united transport cooperative community, committed to providing exemplary service to the Filipino people.