Don Mariano Marcos Memorial State University – Open University System (DMMMSU-OUS) empowered a new generation of cooperative educators by conducting a three-day Training of Trainers (TOT) for Accredited Cooperative Training Providers, held at DMMMSU-OUS Multipurpose Hall, San Fernando City, La Union on July 7to 9, 2025.

The initiative, led by the Continuing Professional Education and Development (CPED) program under Training Chief Dr. Romeo C. Opeña Jr., aimed to strengthen the capacity of cooperative leaders in designing and delivering effective training programs that promote cooperative development.

Participants included representatives from diverse institutions such as the Department of Agrarian Reform – Ilocos Sur, Mariano Marcos State University, Salbang-San Agustin Agricultural Multi-Purpose Cooperative (SSAA MPC), MMSU Multi-purpose Cooperative, INPNPLCE MPC, Nueva Segovia Consortium of Cooperatives (NSCC), the LGUs of Bauang and Luna, and CLIMBS Life and General Insurance Cooperative.

In his welcome message, Dr. Opeña underscored the transformative potential of cooperative education. A keynote address delivered by Dr. Cristita G. Guerra on behalf of DMMMSU-OUS Executive Director Dr. Bernardo D. Lamadrid emphasized the importance of professionalizing training to support grassroots and national development.

The training featured renowned experts in cooperative and adult education. On Day 1, Dr. Josefina L. Bitonio, former CDA Regional Director for Region I, delivered sessions on the history, legal foundations, and socio-economic role of cooperatives in the Philippines. She highlighted the critical role of education and shared best practices in sustaining resilient cooperative institutions.

Day 2 focused on adult learning and instructional design, led by Dr. Allen J. Ngilangil, an expert in adult education. He guided participants through the training cycle, needs assessment, and the development of learner-centered methodologies and materials tailored to cooperative needs.

On the final day, the participants demonstrated training designs and facilitation skills. They received feedback from the experts. The program concluded with the awarding of certificates and a closing ceremony. (By Dr. Romeo C. Opeña Jr.)