The City Government of Isabela, under the leadership of Mayor Sitti Djalia Turabin-Hataman, joined the nation in celebrating Cooperative Month 2025 on October 1 with the theme “Cooperatives: United in Purpose and Action, Sharing Prosperity to Build a Better World.”
Spearheaded by the City Cooperatives Development Office, headed by CCDO Ahmad Tiplani, the celebration officially opened with a kick-off motorcade participated in by around 150 members from various cooperatives in Isabela City. The convoy started from the Basilan Medical Center and culminated at the Cabunbata Multipurpose Covered Court, followed by a coffee tree planting activity symbolizing shared growth, sustainability, and community cooperation.
Representing Mayor Turabin-Hataman, Vice Mayor Ar-Jhemar Ajibon, together with Councilor Alexes Infante Ututalum and Councilor Jashim Tiplani, graced the opening program to extend their support and recognition to the city’s cooperative sector.
The cooperative movement of Isabela City was strongly represented through the active participation of organizations such as the United Workers Agrarian Reform Beneficiaries Multi-Purpose Cooperative (UWARBMPC) headed by Chair Juanito Andajao and General Manager Rafael Enriquez; the Makiri Abaca Growers Agri Cooperative led by Chair Tahir Latip; the Villa Mauswagin Credit Cooperative chaired by Armer Tonette Dela Cruz; the BGHEA Credit Cooperative led by Gaylord Diaz; and LARBENCO represented by Antonio Martalla.
Adding more excitement to the opening day, a “Palarong Coop” featuring a basketball match was also held, fostering camaraderie, teamwork, and sportsmanship among members of the city’s cooperatives.
Through this year’s celebration, the cooperative sector of Isabela City reaffirmed its vital role as a partner in advancing local development, fostering inclusivity, and building a more self-reliant and resilient community—living proof of cooperation in action. (Words by E. Banding-Hadjala/Photos by M. Santos, CIO)
