Cooperatives fight poverty, says Villar

COOPERATIVES can help the government and the private sector curb poverty, according to Senator Cynthia Villar.

“Nothing can equal the help of cooperatives in the growth of a community and small business and alleviating the lives of farmers and fishermen,” said Villar during the Philippine Federation of Credit Cooperatives 11th Annual General Assembly and 2023 Educational Forum at Clark Marriott Hotel in Mabalacat, Pampanga.

The chairperson of the Senate Agriculture committee said the

Cooperative Development Authority (CDA) is the partner of the government and the private sector in creating cooperatives in the different Philippine industries.

“One of the distinct advantages of social enterprises and cooperatives is that they are more attuned and in touch with the needs of the poorer segments of the society,” she said.

“The wide geographical reach of micro small and medium enterprises including, social enterprises and cooperatives, in various regions and provinces make their impact more allencompassing.”