Batangas Egg Producers Cooperative

PWD Antipolo Consumers Cooperative

Laguna Prime Multipurpose Cooperative

INTRODUCTION

CALABARZON is known as Region IV-A in the Philippines, consisting of Cavite, Laguna,

Batangas, and Quezon. The region is famous for its tourist attractions, vacation spots, agricultural
diversity, traditional culture, and fast socio-economic development. The cooperatives in this area
survive due to the large variety of the livelihoods of the Tagalogs in the area. People may choose to
fish, farm, mine, work, serve, or even build businesses inclined toward different industry sectors. In
turn, innovative masterpieces were made which are known throughout the Philippines.

In foods and beverages, the famous Aling Taleng’s Halo-halo and Muni Coffee in Laguna are
famous in CALABARZON and are even featured in famous social media news pages such as PhilStar.
On the other hand, Batangas boasts its Goto Batangas and Quezon is famous for inventing Pancit
Habhab, which is even more numerous on the streets today.

On the other hand, tourism is also another popular experience for the people who visit
CALABARZON. There is a resort capital in Calamba City, Laguna, famous beaches in Laiya,
Batangas, mountains in Rizal bridging CALABARZON to NCR, Pagsanjan Falls in Pagsanjan,
Laguna, and Taal Volcano in Tagaytay. These are avenues to enrich the culture and way of life of the
Filipinos in the given area.

According to statistics, the cooperatives in Region IV-A are already 1027 in total, as of
December 31, 2021. Meanwhile, there were 833,783 members for all the cooperatives and 27,137 as
employees. The total asset turnover of the cooperatives in CALABARZON was 41,194,273,572
during this time.

Batangas Egg Producers Cooperative (BEPCO)

Background and History

Batangas Egg Producers Cooperative (BEPCO) is a multipurpose agricultural primary
cooperative established and officially registered under the Cooperative Development Authority
(CDA) on September 30, 2010.
 Source: BEPCO. (2018).

Since 2004, poultry egg farmers in San Jose, Batangas, mostly members of the Batangas Egg
Producers Association (BAEPA), have been eager to establish an egg processing facility. Their goal is
to modernize the egg industry and enhance the competitiveness of their products on a global scale.
The project was proposed for funding to the Department of Agriculture during the tenure of Former
Secretary Luis Lorenzo. In October 2009, during the First World Egg Day celebration in San Jose,
Batangas, Former Secretary Arthur Yap honored the event with his presence, and the initial group of
25 poultry farmers began holding regular meetings to further advance the project and assist in
marketing the eggs within the industry. In 2010, they officially came together and formed the
Batangas Egg Producers Cooperative (BEPCO) registered under the Cooperative Development
Authority (CDA).

BEPCO's first project involved establishing a Liquid Egg Processing Plant in 2012, which
proved to be a successful collaboration between the Department of Agriculture (DA) and private
entities. The DA granted funding for equipment procurement and initial facility setup, while BEPCO
took charge of completing the facility, conducting research, developing innovative products, and
marketing pasteurized liquid egg variations (including whole, yolk, and whites). The cooperative has
developed a range of egg-based products designed to integrate eggs into daily diets, whether
consumed during the day or at night. These innovative egg products have been showcased at various
trade fairs and exhibits, with support from both the Department of Agriculture (DA) and the
Department of Trade and Industry (DTI). Currently, BEPCO is selling its pasteurized egg products in
restaurants, hotels, and the catering industry in partnership with OVONOVO Marketing.
Products

BEPCO is devoted to generating high-quality, secure, legitimate, and Halal egg goods. They
are strongly focused on attaining customer contentment by advancing, executing, and continuously
enhancing systems, criteria, and practices for quality, food safety, and Halal assurance.

1. Table Egg Products

● BEPCO Sanitized Eggs

● Chef Jose Fresh Eggs

2. Innovation Products from Eggs

● Quick-Egg Chilled Pasteurized Liquid Eggs
 ● Eggo Protein Drink

● Itlogsaeyo Roasted Egg

3. Quick Egg Recipes

● Quick Egg Mayonnaise
● Quick Egg Ham Omelette
● Quick Egg Gourmet Crepes
● Quick Egg Sponge Cake
● Quick Egg Ham and Cheese Quiche

Services
Aside from innovative products, BEPCO also offers a range of services:

1. Marketing
BEPCO actively promotes the consumption and innovation of eggs and egg products.
They lead the annual celebration of World Egg Day, showcasing current egg innovations and
launching projects for the Eggcosystem stakeholders. Additionally, they are a member of the
San Jose Batangas Consortium of Cooperatives, operating Chef Jose Store, a
community-based livestock marketing platform, which facilitates the marketing of Batangas
products to consumers.
 2. Education and Training
BEPCO conducts monthly "Kapehan ng mga taga-BEPCO" sessions to keep its
members updated on good farm management, poultry solutions, and innovations in the layer
industry.

3. Community Development
BEPCO collaborates with San Jose cooperatives through the Municipal Cooperative
Development Council, aiding Batangas entrepreneurs in marketing their products. They are
also proactive in assisting the local government in planning and executing aspirations for San
Jose, Batangas. Additionally, BEPCO's food technologists offer free consultation to food
businesses through a partnership with the Department of Trade and Industries of Batangas
province. Finally, the cooperative is a pioneer and leader of the Batangas Credit Surety Fund.

Contribution to members and community

Over time, BEPCO's membership has expanded from the initial 25 members to currently 54
members, each playing contributory roles in marketing, management, and financing. Additionally,
BEPCO serves as a vital link between the government and poultry stakeholders in Batangas,
especially during challenging events like outbreaks of Avian Influenza (AI) in 2017. Recognizing the
significant impact on farmers and the community, BEPCO has been taking proactive measures to
maintain an AI-free environment in Batangas.

Source: Department of Agriculture Agricultural Credit Policy Council. (2021).

 BEPCO supplies approximately 25% of the Philippines' egg needs, estimated at 10 million
eggs daily. Subsequently, the cooperative is dedicated to establishing an "Eggcosystem" that fosters a
sustainable agricultural framework. As a leader in food innovation, BEPCO is actively encouraging
and inviting stakeholders to join their Eggs Innovation Towards Sustainability and Food Security
Program, launched on World Egg Day in 2017. They also have a program called “Eggs for Healthier
Kids” which aims to transform ordinary table eggs into more sustainable and nutritious pasteurized
eggs.

The cooperative's social objective, "Nourishing Families Today," centers on delivering

nutritious eggs to Filipinos through innovative means. The cooperative actively participates in feeding
programs initiated by NGOs and foundations during relief operations, as well as in the provision of
fresh eggs to school-based feeding programs. Recently, they launched the #LodiangItlog
(#EggsareSuperb) campaign, which underscores the nutritional and functional value of eggs. This
campaign is geared towards combating protein malnutrition in the Philippines. #LodiAngItlog brings
together members from the private egg sectors and various agricultural organizations, all dedicated to
enhancing the health and food security of the country. This collaborative effort receives support from
the National Government, LGUs, and the IATF on Zero Hunger. The campaign strives to fortify the
nation's diet with eggs, recognizing them as a key element in achieving a healthier Philippines. By
incorporating eggs into family meals, we contribute to a healthier nation.

Other information / Trivia

BEPCO has successfully finalized its project on building an Automated Composting Facility,
aiming to completely convert farm waste, particularly chicken manure, into an organic soil enhancer.
Among various types of animal manure, layer chicken manure boasts the highest nitrogen content and
serves as a valuable agricultural input for both conventional and organic crop cultivation. This
initiative also includes a communal laboratory equipped to assess the chemical and microbial
composition of soil and fertilizer. The cooperative is firm in its belief that farming is both a science
and a business venture, essential for the advancement and sustainability of agriculture.

Awards Received:

● Outstanding Community Enterprise of Villar Sipag Awards

● BPI Sinag Spark Top Five Enterprise Awardee
● Regional Winner of DOLE National Productivity Olympics
 Memberships and Affiliations:
● Cooperative Union of Batangas (CUB)
● Consortium of San Jose Batangas Cooperatives (SJBC)
● Batangas Credit Surety Fund (BCSF)
● Batangas Organic and Natural Farmers Association (BONFA)
● Philippine Poultry Integrated Alliance (PPIA)

Certifications:
● Food and Drug Administration (FDA) Philippines GMP Certified
● Islamic Da’wah Council of the Philippines (IDCP) HALAL Certified
● US ARMY PUBLIC HEALTH COMMAND (USAPHC) Approved Food
Establishment

Nature and Importance of Agricultural Cooperative

BEPCO plays a crucial role in the egg production industry. Its nature as a primary cooperative
allows members to pool resources, share knowledge, and work together to achieve common goals in
the quality assurance and marketing of their Halal-certified egg products, as well as providing
education and training to its members. This not only benefits the cooperative's members by increasing
demand for their products, but it also contributes to the growth of the local egg industry. Their
collaboration with local cooperatives and government bodies in supporting Batangas entrepreneurs
also aids in economic growth and stability in the region.

In terms of the objectives realized, it appears that BEPCO has made significant strides in
fulfilling its mission. The cooperative actively engages in marketing and promotional activities, as
evidenced by its leadership in celebrating World Egg Day and operating Chef Jose Store. Moreover,
the provision of educational sessions and training demonstrates a commitment to member
development and knowledge-sharing. Their involvement in community development through
collaborations with local cooperatives and government bodies also showcases their dedication to
broader economic progress. The cooperative's participation in the Batangas Credit Surety Fund further
demonstrates its leadership in financial stability and support for local enterprises. Overall, BEPCO's
multifaceted approach to serving its members and local communities highlights the cooperative's
significant impact on the egg production industry and the broader economic landscape in Batangas.
PWD Antipolo Consumers Cooperative (PWD Coop)

Background and History

The PWD Antipolo Consumers Cooperative (PWD Coop) was established on July 17, 2010,
and officially registered with the Cooperative Development Authority on November 7, 2014.
Comprising individuals with disabilities and their supportive families, many of whom are skilled
masseurs and masseuses, the cooperative's inception was a response to the pressing economic
challenges faced by its members. These challenges ranged from unemployment to the inherent
difficulties associated with living with disabilities. In pursuit of a more self-reliant and dignified life,
the members collectively embarked on a journey to create a cooperative that would offer sustainable
livelihood opportunities. This initiative was not just about financial independence but also aimed to
reduce dependence on government assistance and move away from the stigma associated with
begging for alms.

Services

The cooperative's humble beginnings saw the establishment of a Massage Center in the serene
ambiance of Sumulong Park, Antipolo. Using basic monoblock chairs, the trained masseurs and
masseuses commenced their mission by offering massage services to passers-by and local residents.
Over time, the cooperative's vision expanded, encompassing a broader spectrum of services and
locations.

Today, PWD Coop provides a range of services, with Massage Centers located in key areas
such as the New Antipolo Public Market, City Mall of Antipolo, Maylor’s Plaza Building, and more.
Beyond traditional massage therapy, they initiated a Massage Therapy Training Program, a testament
to their commitment to fostering skill development and employment opportunities not only for their
members but also for the broader community. This training program extends the cooperative's reach,
inclusivity, and positive impact.

Contribution to Members and Community

1. Economic Empowerment
The primary contribution of PWD Coop lies in providing a source of economic
empowerment for its members. By establishing a viable cooperative business, the cooperative
 members have gained the autonomy to pursue their livelihoods with dignity and financial
independence.

2. Skill Enhancement
The cooperative's focus on skill enhancement has been pivotal. It has sharpened the
massage skills and techniques of its therapists, equipping them with the knowledge and
competence needed to thrive in the job market, thus empowering them further.

3. Community Services
Beyond its immediate membership, PWD Coop has contributed to the local
community by offering affordable and accessible massage therapy services. Residents and
passers-by have access to relaxation and therapeutic services that promote well-being.

Programs for the Community

PWD Coop's impact goes beyond its membership and extends to the broader community
through its Massage Therapy Training Program. This initiative not only fulfills the cooperative's
internal needs for skilled therapists but also serves as a remarkable community development endeavor.
It provides training and employment opportunities to other individuals interested in joining the
cooperative enterprise, thereby promoting skill development and inclusivity within the local
community.

Other Information / Trivia

The advent of the COVID-19 pandemic presented formidable challenges to PWD Coop. As
mandated lockdowns forced the closure of their Massage Centers, the cooperative faced a severe
financial crisis. During this trying period, they received critical support from various quarters,
including non-governmental organizations (NGOs), a larger cooperative, concerned clients, and the
local government. This support played a pivotal role in helping the cooperative navigate the
pandemic-induced economic hardship.

Recognizing the cooperative's resilience and determination, the Cooperative Development

Authority (CDA) stepped in to provide financial assistance. PWD Coop also became a beneficiary of
the Koop Kapatid Program, forging connections with larger cooperatives like Morong Retailers and
Community Multipurpose Cooperative (MORECO), and Ayala Multipurpose Cooperative.
 Witnessing the ceremony are City of Antipolo Government officials led by Ms. Amalia Engalla of the
City Cooperative and Livelihood Office and Mr. Frescian O. Canlas of the City Social Welfare and
Development Office; together with Ms. Jeramel Valdez, Provincial Cooperative Development
Specialist, Rizal Field Office.

Nature and Importance of Consumer Cooperative

PWD Coop epitomizes the essence and significance of consumer cooperatives in modern
society. It serves as a robust platform for individuals with disabilities to secure sustainable livelihoods,
develop their skills, and contribute meaningfully to the local community. Through a variety of
programs and initiatives, PWD Coop underscores the principles of cooperation among cooperatives,
demonstrating how collaboration can enhance services, stimulate the local economy, and address
pressing social and community needs.

The cooperative has successfully realized its objectives of economic empowerment, skill
development, and community service, making it a valuable model for similar organizations and
underserved communities seeking empowerment and inclusion. It serves as an inspiring example of
how consumer cooperatives can play an integral role in improving the lives of their members and
fostering positive change within the local community.
Laguna Prime Multipurpose Cooperative

Background and History

Laguna Prime Multipurpose Cooperative (LPMPC) has evolved from being a credit
cooperative to a multipurpose cooperative. The development of the cooperative can be traced back on
February 7, 1958, the UP College of Agriculture dean, Dr. Leopoldo B. Uichanco, received a letter
from Restituto Esguerra of UPCA accounting office suggesting the desirability of organizing and
availing of the services of a credit cooperative for the constituents of the college. Thirty-seven out of
the sixty faculty and employee-incorporators of the UP College of Agriculture (UPCA), the
Agricultural Credit and Cooperative Institute (ACCI), and teachers of Makiling School, Inc. After a
month of operation, the newly formed credit union was first handled by the manager-treasurer, who
was a member of the board of directors. By the end of 1963, the credit union had four full-time
employees: a treasurer, a bookkeeper, an assistant bookkeeper, and a clerk.

The cooperative experienced steady growth from 173 members in 1961 to 4671 in 1989, the
same time it was renamed as U.P. at Los Baños Credit Cooperative Inc. (UPLBCCI). However,
between 1971 and 1972, membership declined, which resulted in lower fixed deposit interest rates and
patronage refunds. In 1976, the board of directors initiated a massive drive to increase membership
and introduced innovative practices, such as a campaign for special deposits. As a result, interest rates
on fixed deposits and patronage refunds increased.

Through the years, the cooperative has evolved into a community-based organization
including self-employed people, market sellers, jeepney and tricycle drivers, and operators, among its
membership. It became a multifunctional cooperative in 1995 under the name UPLB Credit and
Development Cooperative (UPLBCDC). Recognizing that the cooperative's membership had
expanded beyond the UPLB community, the 2020 General Assembly approved an amendment to the
Cooperative's Articles of Cooperation and Bylaws, changing the name from "UPLB Credit and
Development Cooperative" to "Laguna Prime Multipurpose Cooperative."
Products and Services

The main service of Laguna Prime Multipurpose Cooperative is their loan facilities which
helps small borrowers from rural areas who do not have access to bank credit facilities. The loan
services encourage its members to save money, allow them to acquire loans, and assist them
financially. Furthermore, they also offer community services and Kasambili.

1. Loan Facilities
- Petty Cash Loan
- Short-term Loan
- Hospitalization Loan
- Regular Loan
- Housing Loan
- Real Estate Loan
- Cooperative Housing Project Loan
- Vehicle Loan
- ATM Loan
- Memorial Lot Loan
- Eternal Cash Package Life Plan Loan
- Educational Loan

2. Community Services
- Medical and Dental Missions
- Cooperative Education
- Livelihood Seminars
- Housing Project

3. Other Services
- Kasambili/ Consumers

Contribution to members and community

The LPMPC has a total of 7, 516 regular and 3, 759 associate members. With total assets of
more than half a billion pesos, The LPMPC keeps improving with its stated goal of a stable,
progressive, devoted, and responsive cooperative that provides excellent services to its members and
the community in order to achieve a high quality of life.
Other Information/Trivia

In 1994, the LPMPC acquired a 583 sq.m. lot worth P2.8M at the Sacay Villas compound.
The construction of a two-storey building at a cost of P3.8M soon followed and was completed on
January 31, 1996. From its establishment in 1961, the cooperative had a two-room office at the
Agricultural Credit and Cooperatives Institute (ACCI). After 35 years of existence, it moved to the
new building on May 4, 1996.

Awards Received:

- On November 5, 1995, it was proclaimed as the most outstanding primary

cooperative of the Philippines during the National Cooperative Month Celebration
sponsored by the Cooperative Development Authority, Office of the President,
Republic of the Philippines.

- In 1999, the Cooperative was awarded by the Landbank of the Philippines and the
Philippine Federation of Credit Cooperatives, as GAWAD PITAK's "Kooperatibang
Pinakamahusay sa Pag-iimpok" and "Katangi-tanging Mag-impok."

- It maintains its position as the Largest Co-op in Laguna Province, the 2nd Largest
Co-op in Region 4, and rank 13th in the Top 100 Primary Co-ops in the Philippines

Nature and Importance of Consumer Cooperative

The cooperative upholds its vision to be a stable, progressive, committed, and responsive
cooperative, providing effective services for a high-quality life for its members and the community.
The LPMPC provides effective services that are economically and socially beneficial to improve their
quality of life. The members of the cooperative display competency and dedication. Their continuous
education and training, entrepreneurial development, and mobilization of resources serves as a way to
fulfill their objectives. Furthermore, its dynamic leadership and adherence to cooperative ideals have
contributed to its success.

CONCLUSION

Region IV-A CALABARZON, renowned for its rich cultural heritage and high standards of
development, particularly among its predominant Tagalog population, has proven to be a fertile
ground for the thriving growth of cooperatives. These cooperatives in the region have not only
flourished but have also demonstrated substantial asset turnovers, a continuous influx of members,
and increased employment opportunities. This success is emblematic of the region's commitment to
preserving its cultural traditions while embracing modern economic and social development.

In this landscape, the Batangas Egg Producers Cooperative (BEPCO) emerges as a notable
player. With a clear vision to revolutionize the egg industry, BEPCO is committed to establishing a
sustainable, innovative, and environmentally responsible agricultural sector that values both progress
and stakeholder welfare. As the premier supplier of eggs in the Philippines, BEPCO is dedicated to
enhancing the nutritional value of eggs and exploring sustainable, convenient methods for integrating
egg products into Filipino households. This commitment aligns with the cooperative's aspirations for
modernization, ensuring that the egg industry remains vibrant and responsive to the evolving needs of
the Filipino population.

The PWD Antipolo Consumers Cooperative (PWD Coop) members established their
cooperative with a multifaceted purpose. First and foremost, it was driven by the need for economic
empowerment. Many members faced financial challenges due to their disabilities, making traditional
employment difficult to secure. The cooperative aimed to provide a sustainable source of income,
reducing their reliance on government assistance and allowing them to earn a livelihood with dignity.
Additionally, the cooperative was founded on principles of skill development, recognizing the
valuable skills possessed by its members, particularly in massage therapy. It sought to enhance these
skills and offer opportunities for continuous learning. Inclusivity was also a key objective, as
demonstrated by programs like the Massage Therapy Training Program, which extended opportunities
beyond their membership. Finally, the cooperative aimed to make a positive contribution to the local
community by providing affordable and accessible massage therapy services, benefiting both its
members and the broader community.

The inception of the credit cooperative associated with the UP College of Agriculture
stemmed from the collective desire of its constituents to alleviate their financial burdens. This
cooperative was established with the primary aim of providing accessible financial services to its
members, allowing them to overcome various economic challenges they faced. Initially catering to the
needs of the college community, it acted as a financial lifeline for students, faculty, and staff, offering
them the opportunity to secure loans, savings, and other essential financial products.

Over time, the cooperative's vision expanded beyond the college's boundaries. Recognizing
the effectiveness of their services and the positive impact they could have on a broader spectrum of
the population, the cooperative sought to extend its reach. This expansion involved opening its doors
to self-employed individuals, market vendors, and the hardworking jeepney and tricycle drivers and
operators who formed the backbone of local transportation systems.

In doing so, the cooperative's mission transcended mere financial services. It aimed to provide
not only economic benefits but also social advantages to its members. By offering a range of financial
products and services tailored to the specific needs of these diverse groups, the cooperative aimed to
enhance the quality of life for its members.

The cooperative's growth and evolution exemplify the power of collaboration and the positive
influence that cooperatives can have on their communities. It began as a means to address the
financial challenges faced by the academic community but soon transformed into an inclusive
institution that played a crucial role in improving the economic and social well-being of a more
extensive and diverse group of constituents. Through its commitment to providing effective and
economically viable services, this cooperative continues to be a driving force for empowerment and
financial inclusion in the region.
REFERENCES

BEPCO. (2018). Batangas Egg Producers Cooperative. Retrieved from

https://www.thebepcogroup.com/

CDA (2022). The number of cooperative members, employees, total asset turnover and total net
surplus of Region 4. Retrieved from:
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NjM2MzE1NzQM

CDA. (n.d.). PWD’s Koop Big Brothers, Partners towards Progress.

https://cda.gov.ph/region-4a/pwds-koop-big-brothers-partners-towards-progress/

CDA. (n.d.). CDA Region IV-A EO. https://cda.gov.ph/region-4a/laguna-prime-multipurpose-

cooperative-a-brief-history/

Cooperative Development Authority (2019). Data of Cooperatives in Batangas Province. Retrieved

from:
https://www.foi.gov.ph/requests/aglzfmVmb2ktcGhyHQsSB0NvbnRlbnQiEENEQS0wMDQ
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Cooperative Development Authority. (2022). Batangas Egg Producers Multipurpose Cooperative

(BEPCO): Winning Together! Retrieved from
https://cda.gov.ph/region-4a/batangas-egg-producers-multipurpose-cooperative-bepco-winnin
g-together/

Department of Agriculture Agricultural Credit Policy Council. (2021). BEPCO, the Egg Innovation
Hub of the Egg Basket of the Philippines. Retrieved from
https://acpc.gov.ph/bepco-the-egg-innovation-hub-of-the-egg-basket-of-the-philippines/

LPMPC (n.d.). LPMPC Products and Services. Retrieved from https://lpmpc.net/CDC/services.php

Mandanas, H. (2021). Batangas Socio-Economic and Physical Profile. Retrieved from:

https://www.batangas.gov.ph/portal/socio-economic-and-physical-profile/
Manila Bulletin. (2019, July 18). Antipolo PWD coop shines as role model.

https://mb.com.ph/2019/07/18/antipolo-pwd-coop-shines-as-role-model/