For over 52 years, the Bohol Community Multi-Purpose Cooperative (BCMPC) has been a source of hope and progress for farmers and fisherfolk in Bohol. Dedicated to improving the lives of its members and boosting rural communities, BCMPC plays a key role in promoting sustainable development in the region.

A Legacy of Service

Established by the late Father Ranulfo Nazareno of the Diocese of Tagbilaran City on August 14, 1973, the BCMPC has a rich history rooted in the principles of cooperation and mutual assistance.

“Our mission is to build a strong membership base and to create more opportunities for our members so that they can improve the quality of their life,” BCMPC Chief Executive Officer Janette Romero said.

Formerly known as the Loay Credit Union and the Loay Community Multi-Purpose Cooperative, the BCMPC has 11 branches in Bohol and one each in Nasipit, Agusan del Norte, and Claver, Surigao del Norte. From only P2.8 million assets in 1997, the cooperative currently has almost a billion worth of assets.

At present, the cooperative has 26,000 members nationwide, of which 40% are farmers and fisherfolk.

“We are helping our farmers and fishers not only because we are an agricultural cooperative but also because they put food on our table,” said CEO Romero. Aside from providing credit and savings services to their farmer and fisherfolk- members, they also provide them weather protect insurance. “May matinding ulan man o tagtuyot, mababayaran ang farmers sa kanilang losses at makakapagsimula silang uli,” she added.

For many farmers and fisherfolk, the challenge of finding a market for their produce can often be daunting. However, BCMPC alleviates this concern by offering a guaranteed market for its members.

“Binibili namin ang harvest nila at kami na ang nagbebenta. Kung wala silang pera pwedeng ibawas sa savings. Sometimes we even deliver the goods straight to their homes,” CEO Romero narrated. “Ang gusto namin ay makilala ang BCMPC during hard times. We want them to know that we are here to help and support them.”

The BCMPC has also consistently pursued social responsibility initiatives in the province such as coastal clean-up and mangrove reforestation drives, feeding programs, relief goods operations, medical missions, and distribution of equipment to rural health units, among others.

Partnering for Progress

One of the key partnerships that have propelled BCMPC forward is its collaboration with the Agricultural Credit Policy Council (ACPC) in 2021. Through this partnership, BCMPC has been able to access vital funding of more than P60 million for the implementation of credit programs aimed at supporting its members from the agri- fishery sector.

“The support from ACPC has been instrumental in enabling BCMPC to expand its reach and impact within the community,” Chair Melchor Daniel said. “Together, we were able to provide much-needed financial assistance to around 1,700 of our members, allowing them to invest in their farms and fishing enterprises."

“As ACPC’s partner lending conduit, sinisiguro namin na talagang mapupunta sa tamang tao ang pondo,” said CEO Romero, who advocates the ACPC’s Young Agripreneurs Loan Program herself. “Magaling ang mga kabataan basta i-guide mo lang sila. Di na nila kailangan magtrabaho abroad dahil may pera sa agrikultura. They can stay here and help their respective communities,” she added.

To ensure that borrowers are equipped with the right knowledge in handling their finances, the BCMPC also provides financial literacy training to its members. “Bago sila mag-avail ng ACPC loan, ino-orient namin sila at pinapa-attend sa financial literacy
training,” shared Branch Manager Basilides Paguican.

“We always remind our members to be good borrowers. We tell them that this money belongs to the government and we are just the channel of blessing,” narrated CEO Romero.

“Our Member, Our Asset”

The BCMPC’s tagline, "Our Member, Our Asset," serves as a powerful reminder of its unwavering commitment to the well-being and success of its members. “This means
that every member of our cooperative is an asset and a part of our growing family. We are here in time of your need,” CEO Romero explained.

Through its member-centric approach and dedication to fostering growth and prosperity, BCMPC continues to empower its constituents and cultivate a community of shared success and prosperity in Bohol.

“We are very proud of the men and women of BCMPC. We are here today because of their hard work and dedication,” Chair Daniel shared.