The Don Mariano Marcos Memorial State University – Distance Open University System (DMMMSU – DOUS), in partnership with the Cooperative Development Authority (CDA) – Cordillera Extension Office, conducted a three-day Training of Trainers (TOT) from June 9 to 11, 2025, in Pidigan, Abra, aiming to boost cooperative development and training capacity in rural communities.

Held at the Bishop Rillera Hall, Mt. Carmel Agri-Tourism and Training Center, the event gathered prospective applicants and Accredited Cooperative Training Providers (ACTPROs) to build their competencies in cooperative leadership, training delivery, and enterprise sustainability. The initiative aligns with Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 17: Partnerships for the Goals, promoting collaboration for inclusive development.

The program was spearheaded by Dr. Romeo C. Opeña Jr., Chief of the DOUS Continuing Professional Education and Development (CPED) unit. Participants received hands-on instruction and updated knowledge to help improve cooperative services in their respective communities.

Dr. Felicidad R. Cenon, CDA – Cordillera Officer-in-Charge and Regional Director, delivered the keynote message, highlighting the vital role of partnerships in empowering grassroots cooperatives. She also shared remarks on behalf of Engr. Irene B. Bringas, Chairperson of the Abra Cooperative Union and CEO of ADTEMPCO and stressed the importance of ACTPROs in building self-reliant communities.

Mr. Julio B. Decaleng, CDA – Cordillera Senior Cooperative Development Specialist, explained the training’s alignment with CDA Memorandum Circular No. 2022-11, which governs the accreditation and performance monitoring of cooperative training providers.

Participants also benefited from the insights of guest experts, including Dr. Josefina L. Bitonio, a veteran cooperative educator, and Dr. Allen J. Ngilangil, a development advocate. Their sessions offered practical frameworks for adult learning and cooperative management.Beyond skills training, the TOT served as a platform for networking and collaboration among cooperative stakeholders in the region. It also underscored the important role that institutions like DOUS play in promoting community-based development and lifelong learning. (By Claudia Denise Barbadillo)