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DA-ACPC’s Capacity Building Division, led by Mr. Charleston Dulay, receives the Certificate of Accreditation of DA-ACPC as a Cooperative Training Provider from CDA NCR Regional Director Mr. Pedro T. Defensor, Jr.

The Department of Agriculture – Agricultural Credit Policy Council (DA-ACPC) has been officially accredited by the Cooperative Development Authority (CDA) as a Cooperative Training Provider (CTPro), allowing the agency to conduct CDA-accredited training programs for farmers and fisherfolk organizations (FFOs) nationwide.

On February 21, 2025, five representatives from the DA-ACPC’s Capacity Building Division (CBD), led by Chief Charleston Dulay, took their oath as accredited trainers at the CDA National Capital Region (NCR) Extension Office. The ceremony, officiated by CDA NCR Regional Director Pedro T. Defensor, Jr., marked the DA-ACPC’s formal recognition as a CTPro.

CDA NCR Regional Director Mr. Defensor facilitates the oath-taking of DA-ACPC representatives

“Malaking bagay ito para sa mga farmers at fisherfolk organizations natin. Di na nila kailangan gumastos para sa CDA-accredited trainings, pwede na tayo ang magconduct para sa kanila,” said Dulay, emphasizing that the accreditation allows DA-ACPC to provide essential cooperative training at no cost, making it more accessible to FFOs.

CBD Chief Mr. Dulay (left), and Ms. Marie Paz Faustorilla (right) take their oath as CDA accredited trainers

He added that this initiative also strengthens credit access for the agriculture and fisheries sector by enabling more organizations to become Partner Lending Conduits (PLCs). “Kung mas maka-capacitate pa sila, pwede pa sila maging PLCs, mas makakatulong pa sa maraming farmers at fishers natin lalo na sa malalayong lugar,” he said.

CBD Staff Ms. Lindsay Medrano (left), Mr. Ronnie Tabucanon (middle), and Ms. Melanie Geolagon take their oath as CDA accredited trainers

Previously, aspiring cooperatives had to rely on CDA’s regional extension offices, where training is free but is not always accessible, especially for those in remote areas. Private training institutions also offer these programs, but their fees can be a financial burden. With DA-ACPC now serving as a CTPro, more farmers and fisherfolk organizations will have access to training opportunities that can help them achieve cooperative status and financial sustainability.